Complete to Compete at OCtech

Make a fresh start this spring at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College.

OCtech’s new Complete to Compete initiative is designed to address the needs of students who may have some college credits, but never earned a degree. According to U.S. Census figures, approximately 12,000 Orangeburg County residents ages 25 and older fall into that category – or some 20 percent of the county’s population.

“We know that middle-skill jobs exist in this region for individuals with more than a high school diploma and less than an associate or bachelor’s degree, but the earning potential and the employment opportunities for individuals with a degree increases significantly,” President Dr. Walt Tobin said.

“Looking ahead, the advanced manufacturing sectors of aerospace and automotive will bring demand for a set of workers with an advanced set of skills,” he said. “Inherent in the growth of manufacturing will be growth in other employment sectors: healthcare, education, criminal justice, business, etc.”

Complete to Compete offers returning students a chance to restart their academic career by using credits they’ve already earned from OCtech or another college or university, and developing personalized financial aid plans to help pay off outstanding student debt and fund their continued education.

“We want to help residents of Orangeburg and Calhoun counties complete a degree to compete in the workplace,” Tobin said. “In some instances, students may have earned enough credits to receive an associate degree without taking additional credits. This will give them a credential they can use to increase their employment opportunities and earning power.”

Instant Registration Days will be held in the OCtech Café:

  • Tuesday, Nov. 28 – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Nov. 29 – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Dec. 13 – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m.
  • Thursday, Dec. 14 – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information or to apply, call the Admissions Office at 803.535.1234 or visit octech.edu.