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Education & Workforce Training
Empowering a Community for Innovation, Progress, and Possibility
Pitt County serves as a center for education, research, and workforce development across eastern North Carolina. From strong public schools and nationally recognized universities to hands-on career training, residents have the tools to thrive in healthcare, engineering, education, skilled trades, and more. A large majority of residents age 25 and older, about nine in ten, hold a high school diploma or higher. Nearly one-third have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting the region’s growing base of knowledge and opportunity.
- K-12 Education in Pitt County
- Higher Education Opportunities
- Workforce Development & Career Training
Building Bright Futures Through Local Education
Pitt County Schools serves more than 24,000 students across 38 schools. Accredited by AdvancED as a Quality School System, the district features modern facilities, dedicated educators, and high-performing programs. Students regularly exceed state and national averages on standardized tests and benefit from innovative learning opportunities such as:
- Early College High Schools: Earn college credits and degrees while still in high school.
- Career and Technical Education: Hands-on training in health sciences, technology, agriculture, construction, and public safety.
- STEAM and Magnet Programs: Focused studies in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
- Health Sciences Academy: A specialized program for high school students interested in healthcare careers.
- Middle School STEM Labs: Early exposure to science and technology through interactive, project-based learning.
Pitt County also offers a variety of private and independent schools that give families additional educational options. These include faith-based institutions, Montessori and classical education models, and college-preparatory academies emphasizing small class sizes, personalized learning, leadership development, and community engagement.
The Grow Local initiative further strengthens career awareness by connecting students with local industries through free, educator-led programs that inspire and prepare future workforce talent.
Higher Learning That Powers Local Progress
Pitt County is home to a strong network of higher education institutions that drive innovation, research, and workforce development across eastern North Carolina. These institutions prepare students for success in a rapidly changing economy through high-quality programs, hands-on experience, and industry partnerships.
East Carolina University (ECU)
The state’s third-largest public university, ECU enrolls more than 27,000 students and offers more than 100 undergraduate and 99 graduate programs. The university is nationally recognized for excellence in business, health sciences, engineering, education, and public health. In 2025, ECU earned the prestigious R1 Research designation, placing it among the top 5% of research universities nationwide.
ECU Accreditation Highlights
- $67.1 million in research expenditures (2023)
- $8.9 million invested in graduate research (2024)
- Hands-on learning opportunities through MARC, the Honors College, and the Economic Development and Engagement Council
Learn More About East Carolina University Now
Pitt Community College (PCC)
One of the largest colleges in North Carolina’s community college system, PCC serves more than 23,000 credit and non-credit students each year. The college offers over 60 academic and technical programs, along with customized workforce training, adult education, and employer-based learning opportunities that align with local industry needs.
PCC is Highly Regarded For Excellence In:
- Nursing and allied health
- Welding, HVAC, and radiography
- Cybersecurity and dental assisting
- Employer partnerships and career-aligned skills training
Training Today’s Talent for Tomorrow’s Jobs
Pitt County connects education, business, and community partners to build a skilled, adaptable workforce. Through coordinated programs and resources, residents have access to lifelong learning, job training, and career advancement opportunities designed to meet local industry needs.
- NC Edge Customized Industry Training: Specialized programs that offer hands-on instruction in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, and the skilled trades.
Learn More About NC Edge Now - NCWorks Career Center – Pitt County: Provides job search support, career coaching, résumé assistance, and employer services to connect job seekers with meaningful employment.
Visit NCWorks Now - Apprenticeships and Internships: Offer real-world experience in fields such as healthcare, public safety, engineering, and education while building professional skills and industry connections.
- Adult Basic Skills: Programs in GED preparation, digital literacy, English as a Second Language (ESL), and foundational job skills help adults strengthen their career readiness.
Learn More About Adult Basic Skills Now
Through these partnerships and initiatives, our county continues to grow a talented workforce that supports economic mobility, innovation, and lifelong opportunity across the region.