Frequently Asked Questions

Each program has different admissions requirements, be sure to check their page for more information. 

To learn about tuition costs, institutional fees, and more, visit the Financial Aid page. 

Yes! We work with PELL grants, federal supplemental education opportunity grants, federal direct Stafford loans, federal direct PLUS Loans, forgivable education loan for service programs (FELS), NC need-based scholarship programs, and veteran’s benefits. To learn more about financial aid, please contact them directly at 704-355-5486 or visit the website. If you are a current Atrium Health teammate, you may also be eligible to use Educational Assistance. Please contact your HR representative for more information. We do offer scholarships and those can be applied for after admissions.

All international students must be a permanent resident to apply. The school cannot issue visas. All transcripts should be evaluated by International Education Evaluations, Inc. (704-772-0109). World Education Services (WES) is acceptable. Additionally, a TOEFL is also required, the minimum required score is an 83 on the IBT version.

Most programs do not require letters of recommendation. The Medical Laboratory Science, Histotechnology require two references, and Radiation Therapy programs do require three reference forms. These forms can be found online on the program’s page.

We do not have any placement tests. Nursing (ADN) requires the TEAS test, but it is used in the admissions process. You will need to complete the test before being considered for admission.

The SAT/ACT may be required for some programs. Please review your programs application requirements for confirmation. 

High school transcripts are needed if you have less than 24 college credit hours.

To learn more about transfer credit requirements, and its process, please visit our Registrar's Office page. 

We unfortunately do not offer student housing, but there are unaffiliated apartments available for rent in the surrounding area.

Yes, but most students opt not to. We recommend working less than 20 hours if you are completing a degree program. Typically, our hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We do not have night or weekend courses aside from Nurse Aide.

Some programs are offered year-round, while others have one or a limited number of start semester each year. Please review the deadlines table to determine when specific programs are offered.

All programs have priority deadlines which guarantees that your application will be considered for that start date. If seats are still available after the priority deadline, then the application will remain open and continue to be reviewed.

Remember, in all cases, you must have a complete application in order to be considered for admissions. This includes all transcripts, test scores and other documents required by your program of interest.

Contact our admissions office at 704-355-5501 or Admissions@CarolinasCollege.edu.

Graduates of the Specialist in Blood Bank Technology (SBBT) program fill an array of positions within the blood center and transfusion medicine fields as technical supervisors, laboratory administrators, quality regulatory assessors, educators and researchers. You’ll become knowledgeable in all aspects of blood banking and transfusion medicine. You’ll become subject matter experts on AABB quality systems and FDA compliance requirements related to blood establishments.

This is a 12-month, non-credit online program.

Yes!

A bachelor’s degree including courses in biological science, chemistry and math with a 2.5 minimum GPA. Two or more years full-time equivalence experience in an accredited blood center, transfusion service or blood bank-related field. Current ASCP certification as MLS, MT or BB. Two reference letters are also required. Click here for more details.

The SBBT online curriculum is designed to prepare students to assume positions as technical specialists in the field of blood banking and to take the Specialist in Blood Banking (SBB) national exam. Curriculum includes education in laboratory operations, blood donation, serology and more.

Yes, but they may be done at locations chosen by the student.

Anyone looking to get a basic understanding of the biological sciences and an opportunity to integrate liberal arts with healthcare education. General Studies incorporates liberal arts and science courses which count toward program curriculum requirements, may qualify for transfer to other colleges, or may be taken individually for personal enrichment. General Studies also includes our Pre-Nursing and Pre-Radiologic Technology pathways, which allow students who meet certain requirements to earn conditional acceptance into those respective programs.

General Studies, Pre-Nursing and Pre-Radiologic Technology courses are taught with an emphasis on healthcare and are designed to give students a broader understanding of the world. The courses teach students to communicate effectively, think critically and understand fundamental concepts of the natural and life sciences.

An Associate of Science in General Studies provides students with a basic understanding of the biological sciences. This program is extremely competitive and can also help students prepare for transfer into advanced programs at four-year institutions leading to degrees such as pre-medicine or pre-veterinary. Other options within General Studies are Pre-Nursing and Pre-Radiologic Technology.

The Pre-Nursing pathway is a great option to earn admission to the program, while gaining invaluable educational experience in foundational healthcare professions content areas. Students who are admitted into the Pre-Nursing pathway will receive a conditional acceptance into the Nursing program. The conditions consist of earning a GPA of 3.21 in four courses taken directly from the list of required general education courses for nursing, including BIO 168 and BIO 169 - Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and two additional General Studies courses. The courses must be completed within two consecutive terms of starting the program at Carolinas College. Students who earn the 3.21 GPA must complete all nursing pre-enrollment requirements and the Chemistry pre-requisite prior to starting the nursing curriculum. Students who do not earn admission may change to the General Studies track to complete the associate degree.

The Pre-Radiologic Technology pathway is a great option to earn admission to the program. With Pre-Radiologic Technology, students have an opportunity to earn conditional acceptance into the Carolinas College Radiologic Technology program. They must complete the following courses at Carolinas College within three consecutive terms of starting the program and earn at least a 3.21 GPA: Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II and two General Studies courses. Students who do not earn admission may change to the General Studies track to complete the associate degree. Students also have the opportunity to complete all other General Studies courses in the Radiologic Technology curriculum, which will alleviate workload once in the program. While Pre-Radiologic Technology students are completing the required coursework, they must also complete shadowing requirements

Because Carolinas College focuses on preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals, we pride ourselves on the quality of our programs. A good rule of thumb is to study two to three hours per credit hour per week. For example, BIO 168 – Anatomy and Physiology, is a 4-credit course, so a student can expect to spend between 8 and 12 hours per week studying outside of class.

For high school transcripts, a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA is required for Pre-Radiologic Technology/Pre-Nursing, and 2.0 is required for General Studies. For college transcripts (if applicable), a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA is required for Pre-Radiologic Technology/Pre-Nursing, and 2.0 is required for General Studies. For SAT or ACT scores, minimum 900 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT is required. The college utilizes only the critical reading and math portions when calculating the SAT score. SAT/ACT requirements are waived with a bachelor's degree.

This unique and emerging field combines education, technology, operations, research and leadership skills. You’ll be creating safe spaces in which healthcare professionals can learn and grow in a low-risk training environment. Learn to manage everything about healthcare simulation, from creating curriculum to running a state-of-the-art center using human patient simulators, procedural trainers, and virtual reality.

There are multiple pathways for completing this program depending on your educational background. Those with a prior bachelor’s degree may complete the 20-credit certificate option. Other applicants will complete the degree program.

Absolutely! There is a huge demand for well-trained simulation professionals.

Students in this program will get hands-on learning in Atrium Health's state-of-the-art Carolinas Simulation Center. The center opened in 2007 and is one of only a handful of programs accredited at a distinguished level by both the American College of Surgeons as a Comprehensive Education Institute and the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) accredited in the areas of Assessment, Research, Teaching/Education, and Systems Integration. The Simulation Center provides healthcare professionals the opportunity to use a variety of simulation modalities to practice procedures and clinical patient care situations in a safe-learning environment.

You will be prepared to sit for the Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) or Certified Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist (CHSOS) exam after meeting the two-year requirement in simulation.

Typically, one year for the certificate option. Students may complete the Bachelor of Science program in two years with a prior associate degree and four years with no incoming credits.

Our flexible hybrid learning model means you’ll take a combination of general education courses and simulation courses online, while coming in person for your hands-on lab experience. Many classes are taken with students from other disciplines. This program includes 120 total credits for the bachelor’s degree, and 20 credits for the certificate.

For the certificate option, a bachelor’s degree is required and you must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above. For the bachelor’s degree option, SAT or ACT scores with a minimum of 900 or 19. For the SAT, only the critical reading and math scores are considered. College transcripts (if applicable) with a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Histotechnologists play a critical role in the laboratory, helping to detect tissue abnormalities in order to treat diseases. The goal of this program is to educate entry-level histotechnologists who can serve in leadership, educational and technical roles within the profession.

This program includes small class sizes for more one-on-one time with faculty. Typically, more than 90% of our graduates pass the certification exam on the first attempt. Plus, most of our graduates step right into roles within Atrium Health.

This is a 31-week program that you can begin in either January or August.

A bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and minimum 2.5 GPA in math and science courses. A minimum of 30 semester hours in biology and chemistry combined. Two references are also required. Click here for details.

The curriculum integrates didactic lectures, laboratory training and supervised clinical experience in the histology laboratory. 26 total credits required for completion.

Medical dosimetry is the dose planning and calculation associated with the delivery of radiation therapy treatment.

This is a four-semester certificate program.

All didactic courses are taught at Carolinas College and the clinical education component is completed within several major cancer research facilities and freestanding clinics in North and South Carolina, including Levine Cancer Institute (the flagship cancer care facility of Atrium Health). 44 total credits are required for completion.

If you’re an imaging professional looking to advance your education and move up in your career, our Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging (BSMI) program is the perfect opportunity. You’ll have the flexibility of taking your courses online while continuing to work. If you choose to complete one of the clinical options within the program, you will be given opportunities to complete your hands-on experience in our one of world-class healthcare facilities.

The degree consists of 44 credits awarded for current certification (one modality), 46 hours of 100-200 level general education credits, and 30 hours of 300-400 level major course credits. All students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours at Carolinas College to meet degree requirements. Coursework completed at other institutions may be eligible for transfer credit.

This program is perfect for the working imaging professional who can take advantage of our convenient mix of online courses and in-person clinical education. This is an incredibly well-rounded program that includes courses in leadership, policy and ethics.

Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions documenting a combined cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Documentation of unencumbered certification or licensure from one of the following (ARRT, ARDMS, NMTCB or equivalent).

Medical laboratory scientists are renaissance men and women, exercising a range of skills that make for a successful lab. They analyze human blood, tissues and body fluids.

Anyone with a bachelor’s degree (at least 16 semester hours in biology and at least 16 semester hours in chemistry) who has a strong interest in analyzing samples in a lab.

Yes, and Carolinas College MLS graduates have an outstanding first-time pass rate on the national certification exam – we often see 100% of our students pass on their first attempt!

This is a three-semester, 12-month program. Start dates are in January and August.

You’ll have a combination of classroom lectures and hands-on lab training in Atrium Health facilities. Many of our graduates step right into roles within Atrium Health. Plus, we pride ourselves on our small class sizes, allowing students to get more one-on-one attention from our faculty.

A bachelor’s degree is required with a minimum 2.5 GPA and minimum 2.5 GPA in math and science courses. Minimum 16 semester hours in biology, including microbiology with a lab and immunology. Minimum 16 semester hours in chemistry, including organic chemistry. A statistics course is also required. Microbiology, immunology and organic chemistry/biochemistry must be updated if not completed within the last seven years. You must also have two references. Click here for more.

Neurodiagnostic technology involves treating brain diseases by recording activity in the brain and nervous system. Students with a hunger for solving complex problems and a fascination with the innerworkings of the mind will enjoy the program. It prepares graduates for clinical roles in Electroencephalography (EEG) and provides introductory concepts for Nerve Condition Studies (NCS), Evoked Potentials (EP) and Polysomnography (PSG).

The Neurodiagnostic Technology (NDT) program will cover a wide range of neurodiagnostic modalities. While touching on all of them, we will focus our skillset on performing EEGs, or electroencephalographs. EEG is a test that detects and monitors the electrical activity in the brain using small electrodes that are strategically placed on the scalp.

The certificate track and associate track are two separate pathways, but they both start out going in the same direction. Each student, regardless of their chosen pathway will take the certificate track first. This pathway consists of all the NDT courses as well as Biology 101. If the student is on the associate degree track, there will be an additional two semesters (maybe less, depending on transferable credits) to achieve the associate degree.

Depending on your incoming credits, you may be eligible for the three-semester certificate program. The associate degree is a five-semester program.

Our flexible hybrid learning model means you’ll take a combination of general education courses and simulation courses online, while coming in person to the college and hospital for your hands-on lab and clinical experience. Many general education classes are taken with students from other disciplines. This program includes 60 total credits for the associate degree.

Our flexible Nurse Aide I program is ideal for anyone looking for the perfect first step into healthcare. Learn everything you need to know about providing basic nursing skills in a structured healthcare setting under the supervision of a registered nurse. You’ll be set up for success to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA), a career that’s currently in high demand at Atrium Health.

According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the Nurse Aide is defined as a valued, unlicensed member of the healthcare team, responsible for providing delegated nursing tasks, within a defined range of function for residents, patients, or clients in a variety of settings and who is listed on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry.

The role of a nurse aide is work under to supervision of a nurse to assist patients, residents, or clients with personal care needs. Some of these needs include, checking vital signs, performing basic wound care, ambulating, dressing, hygiene, and grooming.

You’ll be able to begin your reliable and rewarding career quickly - you could finish the program and get credentialed in a matter of 2-3 months.

The program includes 150 total hours of learning and offers tremendous flexibility with weekend or evening options.

This program includes both – you’ll be engaging in online asynchronous instruction and a traditional face to face component for the skills lab and clinical experience. Student enrolled in the program will be scheduled to be on campus for the skills lab and at an Atrium approved medical facility for clinical.

High school or college (if applicable) transcripts. Applicants must also have access to a computer and internet connection. Applicants must also pass a criminal background check prior to enrollment.

Yes! The demand for well-trained healthcare workers is incredibly high. Many of our students step right into jobs within Atrium Health after graduation.

Yes. Textbooks are distributed on the first day of class.

No. Students are responsible for purchasing their own uniforms. We recommend purchasing uniforms from Flynn O’Hara 4-6 weeks prior to the start of the program. To expedite shipping, have the uniforms sent to the store.

Yes. Students will learn how to perform high-quality CPR for adults, children and infants. They will also learn how to properly use an Advanced External Defibrillator as well as to respond to a foreign-body airway obstruction (choking) for adults and infants.

Your first step is to apply to our program. Our Admissions team will work on finding the right path for you. Once you complete your program, you must pass the national licensing exam called the NCLEX. At Carolinas College, we pride ourselves on our first-time pass rate. Typically, close to 100% of our students pass on the first attempt.

Nurses are in incredibly high demand right now, and there’s never been a better time to pursue your passion for helping others.

Throughout your education at Carolinas College, you’ll be exposed to a number of different nursing fields including behavioral health and labor and delivery. Plus, you’ll get to form meaningful connections with our faculty who have a wide range of expertise, and they can help you find the path that’s right for you.

Carolinas College is consistently ranked among the best in North Carolina and our Nursing program is extremely competitive. We pride ourselves on small class sizes, clinical experience within Atrium Health facilities and a tremendous opportunity to step into a job right after graduation.

Depending on your incoming credits, the program typically takes 20-22 months. Carolinas College offers five starts times per year: January, March, May, September and November. Students complete nine 7-week nursing courses in sequence.

A complete application, a high school/college GPA of at least 2.5 and at least a 900 or 19 minimum score on the SAT or ACT. At least a 50th percentile on the individual percentile ranking at the national level is required on the TEAS Test. Students must also be current on the NC Nurse Aide I Registry. For more on requirements, click here.

At Carolinas College, our Nursing program is extremely competitive. The Pre-Nursing track is a great way to complete the General Studies courses and then potentially earn guaranteed admission to the Nursing program depending on your academic performance. Think this is the right path for you? Check out our General Studies page for more info.

Registered nurses who earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) take a commitment to caring for others to the next level, finding greater career opportunities, more responsibility and higher salaries. Our RN-BSN program prepares nurses for an evolving healthcare environment. Plus, Atrium Health teammates can get their BSN at a low cost with available aid.

The program can be completed in as few as 12 to 18 months.

A minimum 2.25 cumulative college GPA, a current, unencumbered RN license and transcripts from all previously attended university(ies) or college(s).

Yes! It’s perfect for practicing nurses.

Upper-level general education coursework completed at other institutions may be eligible for transfer credit, which will be evaluated after an accepted student has paid the deposit. All previous coursework can be reviewed for transfer credit, regardless of when the course was taken (no date limits).

No, you do not need to reside in North Carolina. You do need to live in the United States and cannot reside in California due to State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

Two courses in the master curriculum have clinical components. However, the clinical experiences can be completed where you live and differ from your previous clinical experience in an ADN or diploma program.

Phlebotomists are the behind-the-scenes heroes of laboratory science, as the diagnosis of a patient is dependent on the quality of blood specimens available. You’ll learn all about the basics of collecting blood specimens by venipuncture and skin puncture.

If you’re looking to start a rewarding and stable career in healthcare, this is a great option for you! In a matter of months, you’ll be able to graduate from our program, take the national certifying exam and begin your new job.

Either 10 weeks (summer semester) or 14 weeks (fall and spring).

This is a fast-paced, 200-hour program. Instruction is split between class/lab learning and clinical experiences within Atrium Health facilities. Students will then take a final exam in preparation for the national certifying exam.

A minimum score of 14 on the Scholastic Level Exam. At least a 2.0 high school GPA OR at least a 2.0 college GPA with at least 12 credit hours.

Yes! The demand for well-trained healthcare workers is incredibly high. Many of our students step right into jobs within Atrium Health after graduation.

Radiation therapy is the use of radiation to treat cancer and is often used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. The Radiation Therapy program at Carolinas College provides training opportunities with state-of-the-art technology utilized for research and cancer treatment.

This is a three-semester (12 month) certificate program.

Students have a unique opportunity to engage with a network of cancer care specialists. They’ll gain hands-on clinical experience within the large integrated cancer network of Atrium Health, Levine Cancer Institute and other regional treatment facilities. Students will have opportunities to rotate through multiple facilities, observing a range of care techniques and patient populations. At Carolinas College, our graduates routinely achieve 100% annual pass rates on the ARRT national certification exam.

A minimum 2.5 cumulative college GPA with successful completion of college-level algebra and proof of graduation from or enrollment in a qualified radiologic technology or nuclear medicine program. Graduates of a qualified radiologic technology or nuclear medicine program must hold certification in one of these fields. Applicants must also have three references. For more details, click here.

All didactic courses are taught at Carolinas College and the clinical education component is completed within several major cancer research facilities and freestanding clinics in North and South Carolina, including Levine Cancer Institute (the flagship cancer care facility of Atrium Health). 46 total credits are required for completion.

The Radiologic Technology program is part science and part art. Using state-of-the-art equipment, technologists safely utilize X-rays to perform diagnostic imaging procedures.

Absolutely! There is a demand right now for well-trained technologists. The vast majority of our graduates step right into jobs within Atrium Health. In fact, your clinical education during the program is done in various sites across Atrium Health, so you’ll already be familiar with the facilities.

After completing the program and passing the ARRT registry, technologists have the opportunity to advance their career by seeking additional licensure in other radiology modalities including computed tomography, radiation therapy, MRI, interventional radiology and others.

This five-semester program includes 72 credit hours.

A minimum weighted GPA for high school and college (if applicable) of 2.5. Minimum of 900 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT. The college utilizes only the critical reading and math portions.

At Carolinas College, our Radiologic Technology program is extremely competitive. The Pre-Radiologic Technology track is a great way to complete the General Studies courses and then potentially earn guaranteed admission to the Radiologic Technology program depending on your academic performance. Think this is the right path for you? Check out our General Studies page for more info.