Your Future Starts Here.

From the moment you step on campus, CVCC is ready to help you move with purpose.
Whether you’re starting fresh, changing paths, or planning your next big move, we’ll help you build a future that’s bold, personal, and attainable.

Affordable. Accessible. Achievable.

A high-quality education shouldn’t come with overwhelming debt. At CVCC, our low tuition rates, generous financial aid options, and student-first mission make college possible for everyone—from recent grads to working adults.

Affordability & Value

  • Low tuition and fees

  • Financial aid, scholarships, and grants available

  • High return on investment

Academic Excellence

  • 50+ academic programs
  • Strong university transfer pathways
  • Career-ready degrees and certifications

Career  Readiness

  • Partnerships with local industries

  • Earn while you learn with Catawba Apprenticeship Network

  • Work Based Learning

A Community that Cares. 

Did you Know?

CVCC’s S.O.A.R. Commons is a centralized space designed to support student success. It offers access to tutoring, writing assistance, study areas, educational technology, campus accommodations, emotional and mental health counseling, and even free snacks at the Hawk’s Nest, all in one convenient location.

CVCC at a Glance.

50+

Programs of Study

4,800

Curriculum Enrollment

15:1

Student to Faculty Ratio

4

Schools of Education

7

Transfer Options

36

Clubs & Organizations

18

Articulation Agreements

45+

Apprenticeship & WBL Options

Established in

1958

Located in

Hickory, NC

President

Dr. Garrett Hinshaw
White silhouette of North Carolina with the words “Red Hawk Nation” in bold black text across the state and a gold star marking a specific location in the western part of the state.

Rooted in Community.

Focused on the Future.

Catawba Valley Community College plays a vital role in the Catawba Valley region by bringing together students, faculty, and staff who are committed to making a meaningful impact. This commitment begins with serving our local communities and extends into key areas such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, business, and technology.

Mission, Vision & Values.

College Mission

Catawba Valley Community College is committed to excellence, quality engagement, valuing every interaction, and relentless execution in the transformation of our students and communities.

College Vision

We will empower students to transform the communities of our region, and our state by providing exceptional learning experiences, premier workforce development, and engaging personal enrichment.

College Values

CVCC’s principles are expressed in The Four E’s where students are our focus:

Graphic of a ribbon badge with a blue star in the center, representing achievement, excellence, or award recognition.

Commitment to Excellence

We value continuous improvement in teaching and learning excellence.

Graphic of a hand holding a small yellow sprout with two leaves, surrounded by four blue sparkle icons, symbolizing growth and nurturing.

Value Every Interaction

We value every interaction within our communities to provide safe, professional, and inclusive campuses.

Graphic of five blue-outlined people arranged in a semi-circle below a large light bulb with yellow rays, symbolizing group collaboration and shared ideas.

Quality Engagement

We value quality engagement to develop the potential of every student and employee.

Graphic of two outlined hands giving a high-five, with three blue motion lines above one hand indicating movement or celebration.

Relentless Execution

We value relentless execution to exceed the expectations of our students and our communities.

Every Era of Red Hawk Nation.

Did you Know?

Through the concerted efforts of concerned and united Catawba County citizens and North Carolina educational leaders, on April 3, 1958, Catawba Valley Community College was established by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as the ninth school of its kind in the state.

We Are Red Hawk Nation.