Career and Community Studies Certificate

Program Overview

NCCU Thrive is an inclusive postsecondary education program housed in the School of Education that offers a person-centered, campus-embedded postsecondary experience for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Rooted in North Carolina Central University’s proud HBCU legacy, and where purpose takes flight, Thrive expands access to high-quality learning, workforce-aligned career preparation, and authentic campus life while affirming the dignity, potential, and cultural identity of every student.

The Career and Community Studies certificate prepares students for independent employment and active community engagement. The program supports students who are transitioning to post-secondary education while focusing on foundational academic success, financial literacy, and the identification of career pathways.

Students gain applicable skills through coursework and specialized electives, including structured internships designed to cultivate professional workplace behaviors. Admitted students are required to complete a community service project that promotes teamwork and civic responsibility.

This certificate is designed to support a person-centered planning process by integrating academic enrichment, socialization, independent living, and self-advocacy. Student outcomes are aligned to provide practical workforce readiness and the career skills necessary to become contributing community members and to achieve gainful employment.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit their official high school transcript and are required to apply through the official NCCU Thrive program application. Additional admission requirements are identified through the application portal. Specific criteria for the NCCU Thrive program will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Curriculum Requirements

THRV 1010 - Foundations for College Success (3 credits) (EDU 4950 - Special Topics in Education (3))
THRV 3200 - Leadership & Self-Advocacy (3 credits) (EDU 4950 - Special Topics in Education (3))
THRV 1500 - Living and Learning Lab I (3 credits) (EDU 4950 - Special Topics in Education (3))
THRV 2100 - Career Development & Job Readiness (3)
THRV 2300 - Financial Literacy and Financial Decision-Making (See campus course business school FIN 3200) (3)
THRV 1200 - Personal Development and Self-Awareness (3)
THRV 2960 - Internship I (4)
THRV 1510 - Living and Learning Lab II (3)
THRV 2200 - Healthy Relationships and Interpersonal Communication (3)
THRV 2961 - Internship II (4)
THRV 1022 - Academic to Career Strategies I (1)