VGCC experiences growth as students take more classes
The fall semester recently began at Vance-Granville Community College, where officials see positive signs regarding enrollment.
Early data shows an approximate 4% increase in the total number of credit hours that students are taking — typically known as Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) enrollment — compared to the same point in 2019. That FTE measurement is important in calculating state funding for each North Carolina community college.
“Thanks to the work of our dedicated, innovative faculty and staff, VGCC continues to move forward, even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Rachel Desmarais, the college president. “Students are responding positively to how we provide education and training in a way that is affordable, accessible and safe.”
When looking at student headcount, the college has taken a slight dip in comparison to last year this time. However, college leaders are encouraged that students are taking more courses. “We are excited that our students are taking more classes than they did last year this time at Vance-Granville. This should translate into students completing their credentials and degrees at an accelerated pace,” said Dr. Levy Brown, VGCC’s vice president of learning, student engagement and success. “We are pleased to be able to provide quality instruction, academic support, student engagement opportunities, and support services to our students, as most of them are taking online courses with us at VGCC.”
The college invites students from Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties and the surrounding region to take advantage of the Second 8-week courses that begin on October 14 and end on Dec. 15, 2020. These include general education classes that students can take as part of the College Transfer program, as well as classes required for degrees in fields such as Bioprocess Technology, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, and Medical Office Administration.
Most courses are being offered in an online format, while some are in a hybrid format that combines online learning with an on-campus component. VGCC has campuses in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties. For more information on enrollment, visit www.vgcc.edu.
