As high school students across the country take advantage of early access to college credit, a growing number are turning to dual enrollment programs that offer a direct, affordable path into college and careers.
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture has responded to that shift by expanding course offerings to expose students broadly to high-demand career fields in agriculture, animal health, and technical industries.
NCTA’s dual-credit program reflects a growing demand for education that is both practical and purposeful, helping students build skills they can immediately connect to future careers.
A different kind of college start
NCTA’s dual-credit program is open to high school juniors and seniors. It is designed to meet students where they are—whether they come from a production agriculture background or have never considered ag-related careers before.
“Today’s agriculture industry needs forward-thinking decision makers and technology-minded problem solvers,” says Brad Ramsdale, PhD, professor of agronomy. “Students of any background can find many different career opportunities to pursue in agriculture to meet their passions.”
Courses introduce students to a wide range of career pathways, including veterinary technology, agribusiness, natural resources, and livestock systems, all while building confidence in a college-level environment.
Students can choose from a variety of dual-credit courses
- Agriculture Careers: Explore the breadth of opportunities across modern agriculture
- Crop Science: Learn plant systems, soils, and crop production
- Natural Resources Management: Focus on conservation and environmental stewardship
- Animal Management: Understand livestock care and production systems
- Intro to Agricultural Economics: Apply economic principles to ag businesses
- Medical Terminology: Build language skills for the veterinary and medical fields
- Animal Care: Hands-on animal health and handling
- Canine and Feline Nutrition: Companion animal diet and wellness
- Radiation Safety: Safety protocols used in veterinary imaging
These courses allow students to explore potential careers while earning credits that can transfer into college programs.
Affordable access with real impact
Cost is one of the biggest drivers behind the growth of dual enrollment—and NCTA is making that advantage even stronger.
Dual-credit tuition at NCTA is $78, half the college’s already affordable rate of $156 per credit hour, resulting in significant savings for students and families. Credits seamlessly transfer to the University of Nebraska and other four-year colleges where NCTA has transfer agreements.
By earning credits early, students can reduce total college costs, shorten time to graduation, and enter the workforce sooner.
Building a broader, stronger workforce
NCTA’s dual-credit program is part of a larger effort to expand awareness of agriculture and technical careers to a more diverse group of students.
From veterinary clinics and animal health labs to agribusiness firms, conservation agencies, and technology-driven operations, today’s agriculture industry offers opportunities far beyond traditional production roles.
Visit Dual Credit page here or contact Gaylene Stinman for more information on applications and deadlines.
