The NC Workforce Credentials Advisory Council identifies priority non-degree credentials that are valued by employers and puts those who earn them on a path to a sustainable wage career. There are four categories of credentials: Foundation, Essential, Career and Advanced. Note that the lists for Essential and Career are separate from the lists for Foundation and Advanced. A PDF Version of this list can be viewed by clicking here.

This list will be augmented as NC Workforce Credentials reviews additional career areas. To learn how to submit a non-degree credential for consideration for inclusion to the list, go to the FAQ.

List of Essential & Career Credentials

An Essential Credential provides skills highly valued by employers that are tied directly to occupations that offer family sustaining wages or a pathway to career growth.

A Career Credential provides skills highly valued by employers that are tied directly to occupations that offer a family sustaining wages, with a wage boost.

List of Foundation Credentials

A Foundation Credential provides standard or baseline skillsets valued by employers, but not tied directly to occupations that lead to a family sustaining wage.

List of Advanced Credentials

An Advanced Credential facilitates career development for workers who are already working in occupations that offer family sustaining wages and are looking to continue to grow their career. This credential is primarily associated with a job that also requires a degree.

Lists reflects updates as of November 2024

Helping North Carolinians get the jobs they want and the salaries they need.

NC Workforce Credentials is a partnership of the NC Office of the Governor, NC Community College System, NC Department of Public Instruction, NC Department of Commerce, NC Association of Workforce Development Boards, and myFutureNC to identify high-demand competencies and the valued non-degree credentials that put learners on a pathway to sustaining wage jobs.

In support of the state’s postsecondary educational attainment goal of ensuring that by 2030, two million North Carolinians between the ages of 25-44 have a high-quality credential or postsecondary degree, the collaboration has developed policies and procedures that support access to skills training aligned with the identified credentials.

We’re here to serve as your community partner.

As our economy grows, the vast majority of new jobs require more than a high school diploma. Finding qualified talent – especially the skilled technicians and technologists who are trained on the equipment specific to your industry and sector is what attracted you to do business in North Carolina.

NC Workforce Credentials can help streamline the hiring process, creating a greater pipeline of ready talent.

The NC Workforce Credentials Advisory Council comprises 21 members representing employers, state agencies, and educators from across the state. This Council identifies and elevates priority non-degree credentials that are:

High Value

• Demand
• Wages

Types of Credentials

• Industry developed
• State licenses
• Workforce defined
• Apprenticeships

Credential Role:

• Essential Credentials put learners on a pathway to a sustainable wage career, such as a vet tech, nurse aide I, pharmacy technician, or construction labor.
• Career Credentials support sustainable wage careers such as a commercial driver’s license, law enforcement, line worker, or HVAC Technician.

Contact Us for more information.

Let’s Help Students Succeed, Together

As high school counselors, advisors and career center staff, you’re working hard to help students and adults make the absolute best decisions for them! NC Workforce Credentials are a great way for learners who may not want to pursue a four-year degree or military career to build valuable skills and increase their earning potential, too.

What are NC Workforce Credentials? 

There are thousands of well-paying jobs in North Carolina that DON’T require a four-year degree! NC Workforce Credentials is a partnership that helps students earn credits and certifications that will then help them begin one of these careers, move up in a high-demand field they enjoy and earn more overall. 

Together, we can help students find the perfect option for them. 

We’re here as a resource for you. 

Here are just a few of the reasons earning credentials is a great option for students and adult learners. 

• Not just your traditional classroom.
• Low time commitment. There are many credential options that take just a few weeks! As a matter of fact, students can earn some credentials in as little as six weeks. From bootcamps to full semesters, there are so many options and paths to choose from.  
• Financial benefits. Students who earn NC Workforce Credentials increase their earning potential! For example, Dahntay and Rolando almost doubled their salaries after getting their certifications.
• Many options to help students pay for credentials. We’ve included a list of financial assistance options here:
  • Short-term workforce development
  • State Employees’ Credit Union Bridge to Career scholarship program
  • Golden LEAF scholarship program
  • WIOA Adult or Dislocated Worker programs (vouchers)
  • FNS (SNAP) Employment & Training program 
  • NC Workforce Credentials apprenticeships, which allow students to “earn and learn” at the same time – without having to give up income as they go to school
• Flexibility. NC Workforce Credentials classes are set up to fit around STUDENT schedules. Many participating community colleges offer courses throughout the day, so students can continue working while learning – or focus on a certification full-time! 
• Convenient. Many community colleges that offer NC Workforce Credentials run Continuing Education classes more frequently than traditional, full-semester courses. (They don’t always start only in the fall and spring). Many credential options are also shorter than an average course! This means students often don’t have to wait long to start and complete their training.

NC Workforce Credentials work. 

Want to share real-life examples with your students? You can download or print out a few PDF examples here! You can also read just a few NC Workforce Credentials success stories below.

Career Cluster: Information Technology
In just 12 weeks, Dahntay earned his Google IT Support Certification. As a result, Lowe's Companies hired him, and Dahntay’s salary almost doubled! He said the salary increase was unbelievable and increased his happiness and well-being.

Career Cluster: Health Sciences
After working as a stay-at-home mom for more than 13 years, Keisha was ready to (and excited to!) join the workforce. She earned her GED and then completed her Pharmacy Technician Certification. She now has a great position as a Certified Pharmacy Technician! 

Career Cluster: Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
Jordan was working at a local car wash and knew he wanted a change. He completed his Basic Law Enforcement Training Certification and started a successful career with the Sheriff’s Office! He’s already increased his salary by 330 percent – and is continuing his studies. 

Career Cluster: Information Technology
Before starting his certification process, Rolando worked as an order filler at the Walmart Distribution Center. Since earning three IT certifications, he’s received multiple job offers and almost doubled his salary! 

Ready to build skills and a career you’re excited about? Reach out to your nearest community college to learn more about next steps. It all starts with an easy conversation.

NC Workforce Credentials is a partnership of the NC Office of the Governor, NC Community College System, NC Department of Public Instruction, NC Department of Commerce, NC Association of Workforce Development Boards, and myFutureNC.

Build the Career You Want – Your Way

Maybe a four-year university doesn’t fit your lifestyle or goals right now. It could be that you’re looking for a more flexible way to learn after high school. Maybe you want to know that the specific training opportunities you choose will pay off as you start your career.

If any of these sound like you, then this is exactly where you belong. Signing up to earn a NC Workforce Credential may be the perfect choice for you that’ll help you earn more doing what you like.

[INSERT QUOTE FROM NC WORKFORCE CREDENTIAL STUDENT HERE]

What are NC Workforce Credentials? 

There are thousands of well-paying, in-demand jobs in North Carolina that DON’T require a four-year degree! NC Workforce Credentials empower you to quickly learn skills and earn certifications that will help you shape your career or develop the skills needed to earn more overall. 

Here’s how it works. 

Step 1: Start exploring the options + figure out if this might be the right fit for you.
NC Workforce Credentials offers credentials in more than 20 industries! For example, do you love: 

• Animals? NC Workforce Credentials has options to help you become a vet technician or to learn more about dog training and care. 
• Adventure, water and working with your hands? An option like marine welding could be perfect for you. 
• Kids? Consider getting credits to become a child development associate. 
• Machines and figuring out how things work? There are options such as small engine repair and plumbing. (Did you know that plumbers can make nearly $80,000 a year?) 
• Helping others look and feel their best? Cosmetology, nail technician and natural hair care specialist are just a few of the credential options you could explore. 

The opportunities are limitless – no matter what you’re interested in. 

Step 2: Reach out to your nearest community college to learn more about next steps. It all starts with an easy conversation.  

Why NC Workforce Credentials are perfect for you. 

The community colleges and partners that offer NC Workforce Credentials get it – we get what it’s like to finish school and be…well? Pretty sick of taking classes that you’re not interested in. We understand what it’s like knowing you don’t want to pursue a four-year degree or a career in the military – but not seeing many options tailored to your interests that you’re sure will pay off. That’s why we’ve worked so hard to connect you with programs that work for YOU. 

• Low time commitment. There are many credential options that take just a few weeks! As a matter of fact, you can earn some credentials in as little as six weeks. From bootcamps to full semesters, there are so many options and paths to choose from.  
• Financial benefits. Students who earn NC Workforce Credentials increase their earning potential! For example, Dahntay and Rolando almost doubled their salaries after getting their certifications.
• Many options to help you pay for credentials. We’ve included a list of financial assistance options here:
  • Short-term workforce development
  • State Employees’ Credit Union Bridge to Career scholarship program
  • Golden LEAF scholarship program
  • WIOA Adult or Dislocated Worker programs (vouchers)
  • FNS (SNAP) Employment & Training program 
  • NC Workforce Credentials apprenticeships, which allow you to “earn and learn” at the same time – without having to give up income as you go to school
• Flexibility. NC Workforce Credentials classes are set up to fit around YOUR schedule. Many participating community colleges offer courses throughout the day, so you can continue working while learning – or focus on a certification full-time! Many high schools offer dual enrollment options, too.  
• Convenient. Many community colleges that offer NC Workforce Credentials run Continuing Education classes more frequently than traditional, full-semester courses. (They don’t always start only in the fall and spring). Many credential options are also shorter than an average course! This means students like you often don’t have to wait long to start and complete your training. 

Reach out to your nearest community college, high school counselor, career development coordinator, or college advisor to learn more about next steps.

NC Workforce Credentials work. 

As part of NC Workforce Credentials, you get to create your own adventure! You can build on skills you’ve learned in a job you’ve already started, or explore a new industry. Take a look at some of the exciting, customized paths:

Career Cluster: Information Technology
In just 12 weeks, Dahntay earned his Google IT Support Certification. As a result, Lowe's Companies hired him, and Dahntay’s salary almost doubled! He said the salary increase was unbelievable and increased his happiness and well-being.

Career Cluster: Health Sciences
After working as a stay-at-home mom for more than 13 years, Keisha was ready to (and excited to!) join the workforce. She earned her GED and then completed her Pharmacy Technician Certification. She now has a great position as a Certified Pharmacy Technician! 

Career Cluster: Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
Jordan was working at a local car wash and knew he wanted a change. He completed his Basic Law Enforcement Training Certification and started a successful career with the Sheriff’s Office! He’s already increased his salary by 330 percent – and is continuing his studies. 

Career Cluster: Information Technology
Before starting his certification process, Rolando worked as an order filler at the Walmart Distribution Center. Since earning three IT certifications, he’s received multiple job offers and almost doubled his salary! 

Ready to build skills and a career you’re excited about? Reach out to your nearest community college to learn more about next steps. It all starts with an easy conversation.

NC Workforce Credentials is a partnership of the NC Office of the Governor, NC Community College System, NC Department of Public Instruction, NC Department of Commerce, NC Association of Workforce Development Boards, and myFutureNC.

Learn and Earn More – On Your Schedule, Your Way

You work hard, and you’re busy. You care for family members, from kids to parents to siblings. And you want to know how you can earn more in your job – or what career may be a better fit for you. 

Sound like you? Then this is exactly where you belong. There’s room for everyone to build their careers, no matter where you are in your life. Signing up to earn NC Workforce Credentials may be the perfect choice for you! 

[INSERT QUOTE FROM NC WORKFORCE CREDENTIAL ADULT LEARNER HERE]

What are NC Workforce Credentials? 

There are thousands of well-paying, in-demand jobs in North Carolina that DON’T require a four-year degree! 

NC Workforce Credentials is a collaboration that helps you earn credits and certifications that will then help you begin one of these careers, build a career you’ve already started, move up in a high-demand field you enjoy and earn more overall. 

Learning more is easy!

NC Workforce Credentials offers credentials in more than 20 in-demand industries across the state! 

From working with animals as a vet technician, becoming a carpenter or a surgical technologist, to learning certified ethical hacking skills, the opportunities are limitless. That means you get to pick what’s right for you.  

You can learn more (and get started!) in four easy ways:

1. Explore the fastest growing job options – including potential salaries – in North Carolina. LINK
2. Use our Skills Matcher tool to figure out what careers match your skills. LINK
3. Contact your local community college. LINK 
4. Or, contact your nearby NCWorks Career Center. LINK

Why NC Workforce Credentials are perfect for you. 

We know what it’s like to work a full-time job and try to move up in your career or explore a new path. We know what it’s like juggling work and taking care of a family. We know what it’s like trying to fit more hours into one day. That’s why we’ve worked so hard to connect you with programs that work for YOU. 

• Low time commitment. There are many credential options that take just a few weeks! As a matter of fact, you can earn some credentials in as little as six weeks. From bootcamps to full semesters, there are so many options and paths to choose from.  
• Financial benefits. Students who earn NC Workforce Credentials increase their earning potential! For example, Dahntay and Rolando almost doubled their salaries after getting their certifications.
• Many options to help you pay for credentials. We’ve included a list of financial assistance options here:
  • Short-term workforce development
  • State Employees’ Credit Union Bridge to Career scholarship program
  • Golden LEAF scholarship program
  • WIOA Adult or Dislocated Worker programs (vouchers)
  • FNS (SNAP) Employment & Training program 
  • NC Workforce Credentials apprenticeships, which allow you to “earn and learn” at the same time – without having to give up income as you go to school
• Flexibility. NC Workforce Credentials classes are set up to fit around YOUR schedule. Many participating community colleges offer courses throughout the day, so you can continue working while learning – or focus on a certification full-time!
• Convenient. Many community colleges that offer NC Workforce Credentials run Continuing Education classes more frequently than traditional, full-semester courses. (They don’t always start only in the fall and spring). Many credential options are also shorter than an average course! This means students like you often don’t have to wait long to start and complete your training.

NC Workforce Credentials work. 

As part of NC Workforce Credentials, you get to create your own adventure! You can build on skills you’ve learned in a job you’ve already started, or explore a new industry. Take a look at some of the exciting, customized paths:

Career Cluster: Information Technology
In just 12 weeks, Dahntay earned his Google IT Support Certification. As a result, Lowe's Companies hired him, and Dahntay’s salary almost doubled! He said the salary increase was unbelievable and increased his happiness and well-being.

Career Cluster: Health Sciences
After working as a stay-at-home mom for more than 13 years, Keisha was ready to (and excited to!) join the workforce. She earned her GED and then completed her Pharmacy Technician Certification. She now has a great position as a Certified Pharmacy Technician! 

Career Cluster: Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
Jordan was working at a local car wash and knew he wanted a change. He completed his Basic Law Enforcement Training Certification and started a successful career with the Sheriff’s Office! He’s already increased his salary by 330 percent – and is continuing his studies. 

Career Cluster: Information Technology
Before starting his certification process, Rolando worked as an order filler at the Walmart Distribution Center. Since earning three IT certifications, he’s received multiple job offers and almost doubled his salary! 

Ready to build skills and a career you’re excited about? Reach out to your nearest community college to learn more about next steps. It all starts with an easy conversation.

NC Workforce Credentials is a partnership of the NC Office of the Governor, NC Community College System, NC Department of Public Instruction, NC Department of Commerce, NC Association of Workforce Development Boards, and myFutureNC.

We need your help to refine the list of NC Workforce Credentials

The NC Workforce Credentials Advisory Council is a partnership between education, workforce development, and employers to provide a source of high-quality, real-time information on business needs and the non-degree credentials they value.

What type of credentials should be submitted for consideration to be added to the NC Workforce Credential List?

• It’s a non-degree credential (e.g., certificate, industry-recognized certification, license) that is below the Associate’s level.
• The credential is associated with in-demand occupations, either statewide or regionally.
• Employers value the credential, meaning they give a hiring preference to anyone who holds the credential.

What is the difference between a credential and a program?

A credential indicates documented mastery of a set of defined skills and competencies.  Completion of a series of connected courses is not itself a credential; success in a cumulative assessment is required.

When can I submit a credential for consideration?

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and considered by the NC Workforce Credentials Advisory Council during its quarterly meeting.  Decisions will be shared after each quarterly meeting.

Where can I find the application materials and where will I submit?

The NC Workforce Credentials application must be completed online and is accessible here. Applicants may wish to view a PDF version of the application to ensure they have all documents necessary prior to starting the online application. Here's a template for required letters of support. This template is accessible via PDF or WORD Document.

Who is eligible to submit a credential for consideration?

The only eligible entities that may submit a non-degree credential for consideration are North Carolina Community Colleges, NC Workforce Development Boards, CTE Directors at a NC Public School Unit (I.e., a school district), NC Non-profit 4-year College or University and an Industry Partnership (comprised of at least 3 employers). 

If you are not one of these entities but have a credential you would like considered, we encourage you to contact an entity that is eligible to submit to discuss with them the credential you believe may be a good addition to the NC Workforce Credentials List.

What happens after a credential is submitted for consideration?

There is an Initial review for completeness. If the application is incomplete, the submitter will be notified and given the opportunity to add the missing information. Complete applications are reviewed by a credential review committee comprising representatives from the NC Department of Commerce’s Labor & Economic Analysis Division, the NC Department of Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, the NC Community College System, and the Department of Public Instruction. The committee makes a recommendation to the NC Workforce Credentials Advisory Council for consideration and endorsement at its next quarterly meeting. Once endorsed by the Council, the credential is added as an NC Workforce Credential.

What is the timing for applications to be considered?

Applications must be submitted 6 weeks prior to a scheduled Advisory Council meeting to ensure that there is sufficient time for review prior to consideration by the Council. Applications submitted after that window will be slated for review at the next Advisory Council meeting. If you'd like to know the next quarterly closing date, please feel free to reach out to ncworkforcecredentials@myfuturenc.org.

Can I submit a credential that is still in the process of being created?

No. For a credential to be considered for the NC Workforce Credentials List it must be current and accessible for people to pursue.  

What’s the role of employers in the credential submission application?

The application will ask for evidence that employers have been engaged in the process, including:

• Letters from either three employers or a combination of one employer and one trade association will need to be submitted as part of the application using the required template as a PDF or a WORD Document.
• Sample job titles and wage information for those who have the credential
• Indication of the extent to which the credential is used as a hiring preference

Once my credential is approved, will I have to submit it every year to keep it on the credential list?

No. Credentials will be automatically reviewed biannually according to their industry sector. For example, the manufacturing sector was reviewed in 2021; therefore, all the manufacturing related credentials will be automatically reviewed in the 2023 cycle.

If my credential is denied, is there an appeals process?

No. If a credential is denied, the denial letter will include the reasons. Credentials may be resubmitted for consideration.

Contact Us if you have questions or need assistance with the submission process.

NC Workforce Credentials: Learn and Earn More, On Your Terms

NC Workforce Credentials is a partnership of the NC Office of the Governor, NC Community College System, NC Department of Public Instruction, NC Department of Commerce, NC Association of Workforce Development Boards, and myFutureNC.

NC Workforce Credentials Partners

Thanks in part to the generous donation and partnership with the Duke Energy Foundation and for their strong support of education and training in North Carolina.

We appreciate their on-going efforts and commitment to revitalize the workforce system and enable it to meet the complex needs of today’s workers and employers.

NC Workforce Credentials Advisory Council Members

Updated November 2024

Contact Us for more information.