Who We Are

Western Piedmont Community College was chartered on April 2, 1964, as a member of the North Carolina Community College System. In 2008, it was one of seven colleges in the state to receive recognition for Exceptional Institutional Performance based on standards established by the North Carolina General Assembly.

Located in the rolling foothills of Morganton, North Carolina, Western Piedmont is surrounded by scenic views of Table Rock, the South Mountains, and Linville Gorge.  

Approximately 4,000 students enroll each year to pursue college transfer degrees, two year associate degrees, and diplomas. More than 10,000 students enroll in continuing education courses for professional development and personal enrichment. The College also provides programs for high school completion.  

GRADUATES

Associate Degree, Diploma, & Certificate

•   Earned 539 awards (462 Associates, 49 Diplomas, 147 Certificates) 

Adult High School Diploma and GED   (367, 87% GED)

HIGHLIGHTS

•  1 in 5 Burke County adults (20%) attended the College in 2011-12.
  
  
• College recognized for Exceptional Institutional Performance seven of the last ten years.
  
  
• 100% passage rate for Nursing, MLT, Medical Assisting, and BLET graduates on licensure exam.  Overall licensure exam pass rate of 96%.
  
  
• 97% of Graduates indicate they are satisfied with the Overall Quality of the College.
  
  
• 87% of students who transferred to a university achieved a “B” average or better.
  
  
• 98% student pass rate in reading and English departmental courses.
  Highest pass rate among all North Carolina Community Colleges.
  
  
• 94% student pass rate in math.
  2nd highest among all North Carolina Community Colleges.
  
  
• 97% of developmental students perform well in subsequent college level courses.
  2nd highest among all North Carolina Community Colleges.
  
  
• 73% student retention, graduation & transfer rates.
  3rd highest among all North Carolina Community Colleges.
  

NOTES:
Graduates reflect Fall 2011, Spring 2012, and Summer 2012.