What Is It Known For?
Since its establishment in 1963, Gaston College has grown into a major educational institution serving Gaston and Lincoln Counties through three campuses: Dallas, Lincoln, and Kimbrell. The college stands out as North Carolina’s sole community college offering a Textile Technology Center and program.
Each term, more than 5,000 students enroll in curriculum programs across three academic divisions: Arts & Sciences, Career and Technical Education, and Health & Human Services. The college’s reach extends even further through its continuing education programs, which serve an additional 16,000 students annually, making it one of North Carolina’s largest community colleges.
Degrees & Certifications
Gaston College provides students with a broad range of educational paths that lead to rewarding careers and university transfers. Through affordable and comprehensive programs, students can earn certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees that match their goals.
Some of their popular programs include:
- Associate in Science
- Medical Assisting
- Pharmacy Technology
- Associate in Engineering
- Truck Driver Training
- Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology (HVAC)
- Business Administration – General
- Criminal Justice
- And Many More!
Class Schedules
Students at Gaston College can select from flexible learning options that fit their schedules. Evening classes are available in several fields, including machining, automotive mechanics, and natural hair care. The college also partners with ed2go to provide six-week online continuing education courses.
Many programs follow a hybrid format, combining on-campus meetings with online coursework. For health-related programs, students complete classroom instruction and laboratory work before gaining hands-on practice through clinical externships at local healthcare facilities.
Is It Legit?
Yes, Gaston College maintains strong academic standards through its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Individual programs have also earned additional recognition from specialized accrediting bodies.
You can find a complete list of program-specific accreditations available on their accreditation page.
Acceptance Rate
Gaston College follows an open-door admission policy with a 100% acceptance rate.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Gaston College’s tuition rates are established by the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges and the NC General Assembly. Currently, in-state students pay $76 per credit hour, with a maximum of $1,216 per semester for up to 16 credit hours. For non-resident students, the cost is $268 per credit hour, capped at $4,288 per semester.
In addition to tuition, students should also consider other associated fees, including campus access, student activity, and technology fees. However, high school students enrolling in college courses typically do not pay tuition, except for classes in continuing education. To find the most current tuition information, please use the college’s Net Price Calculator.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting & Finance
- Business Administration – Human Resources
- Office Administration
Criminal Justice & Law
- Criminal Justice
- Paralegal Technology
- Public Safety Administration
Healthcare
- Central Sterile Processing
- Emergency Medical Science
- Health and Fitness Science
- Health Information Technology
- Medical Assisting
- Medical Office Administration
- Nurse Aide
- Nursing
- Pharmacy Technology
- Phlebotomy
- Respiratory Therapy
- Surgical Technology
- Veterinary Medical Technology
Professional Services
- Cosmetology
- Esthetics
Skilled Trades
- Fire Protection Technology
- Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology (HVAC)
- Automotive Systems Technology
- Electrical Systems Technology
- Gunsmithing
- Truck Driver Training
- Welding Technology
Technology
- Information Technology
- Networking & Cyber Defense
Campus Locations
Dallas 201 Highway U.S. 321 S Dallas, NC 28034
Lincolnton 511 S. Aspen Street Lincolnton, NC 28092
Belmont 7220 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012
Belmont 7220 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Gaston College has a generally positive reputation, particularly for its vocational programs and helpful staff. However, a significant number of reviews highlight recurring administrative issues and frustration with specific academic policies.
Overall Score: 4.5/5 Stars
Common Praises
Helpful and Professional Staff: A key theme is the friendliness and professionalism of the staff, especially those in the business office and various departments. Several reviewers mention specific staff members who were a “gem” or “wonderful,” making the enrollment and administrative processes feel smooth and welcoming.
Effective Technical and Training Programs: The school is highly praised for its hands-on training, with many positive reviews for its fire training, medical software classes, and motorcycle course. Students appreciate the knowledgeable instructors and the quality of the training facilities.
Affordable and Accessible Education: The college is seen as a great, cost-effective starting point for students planning to transfer to a four-year university. Reviewers appreciate the easy registration process and the affordability of tuition.
Supportive Environment: Students who felt overwhelmed or were returning to school after a long time found the environment and instructors to be supportive and encouraging, helping them to succeed.
Common Criticisms
Administrative and Academic Policy Issues: Several negative reviews criticize the school’s administration, calling the system “money hungry” and “unprofessional.” There are specific complaints about unfair academic policies, such as a student being dropped from a medical class for a “faulty test” without a chance to retest.
High Book Prices: One recent review explicitly states that textbook prices are “too high.”
Outdated Facilities and Limited Offerings: While some reviews praise the cleanliness of the campus, a few older reviews describe it as “old, outdated, and filthy.” Additionally, one reviewer was disappointed by the lack of art classes and programs.
Momentum
The reviews present a consistent picture over time. Positive comments about specific, successful programs and the helpfulness of individual staff members are recent and frequent. At the same time, negative remarks about the administration’s strict policies and lack of student support appear to be a recurring concern, indicating a persistent problem with certain aspects of the student experience.