Northampton County Area Community College

Northampton Community College stands as a beacon of accessible and impactful education in Pennsylvania, serving students across its main campuses in Bethlehem and Tannersville, along with satellite locations. Since its founding in 1967, NCC has become a vital resource for its community, guided by the inspiring motto, "Where are YOU going?" Notably, it holds the distinction of being the only community college in Pennsylvania to offer on-campus housing, providing a comprehensive college experience right from the start. Each year, NCC empowers over 34,000 students through a wide array of credit and non-credit programs, fostering growth and preparing individuals for bright futures.

Academically, Northampton Community College is a powerhouse, offering associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas in more than 100 diverse fields, spanning arts and humanities, business and technology, education, and allied health. The college is particularly renowned for its robust programs that train essential professionals for the region, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, emergency responders, radiologic technologists, dental hygienists, veterinary technologists, funeral service directors, chefs, and early childhood educators. Beyond traditional degrees, NCC is also a significant provider of workforce training, adult literacy programs, and non-credit classes across a four-county region, addressing critical skill gaps and fostering lifelong learning.

The college's rich history began in the 1960s, born from the vision of local business leaders and educators who recognized the need for both a skilled workforce and affordable local higher education. What started in 1967 with eight modular classrooms and a surprising enrollment of 846 students (nearly double the initial expectation) quickly blossomed. Rapid growth led to accreditation from the Middle States Association by 1970 and the completion of five permanent buildings by 1972, solidifying its foundation as a cornerstone of the community.

Under the leadership of successive presidents, including the impactful 26-year tenure of Robert Kopecek, Northampton Community College continued its impressive expansion. This growth included opening a site on the south side of Bethlehem and breaking ground for a new campus in Monroe County, further extending its reach and impact. Today, NCC remains committed to its mission of providing quality education that meets the evolving needs of its students and the regional economy, ensuring every student can find their path forward.