Workforce Continuing Education

Degree (Credit) vs. Non-degree (Non-credit)

Workforce Continuing Education (WCE) courses are considered "non-credit." When you take a WCE course, you won't earn college credit towards a degree (except in some unique cases) -- but, you can earn industry-recognized certifications and CEUs.

Workforce Continuing Education (non-degree) vs. Curriculum (degree) programs. What's the difference?

Which area of Wake Tech is the right place to find the training and resources you need? Where do you start?
Watch this video for an explanation about the differences between degree and non-degree training, and how they work together to help you reach your goals.

Enrolling in non-credit courses 

  • You do not need to submit an application for admission or high school transcript. Find the course you want in our WCE Course Catalog, then follow the unique registration instructions for that course. 

  • NOTE: There are no payment deadlines or payment plans for non-credit courses. You must pay for courses when you register.

Learn more about non-credit registration.

Non-credit students can receive career coaching, financial assistance, and support services.

Financial Assistance

Although traditional financial aid (PELL grants, federal student loans, etc.) cannot be used to pay for non-credit courses, Wake Tech DOES offer financial assistance for non-credit students. Learn more about the Workforce Continuing Education Endowment Fund and other resources available through the Workforce Continuing Education Career Pathways Program & Student Resources. We offer individualized support services that include scholarships for students who qualify and referrals to partner agencies for assistance. 

Career Coaching and Support Services

Non-credit students have access to academic coaching and support (including assessments, referrals, and employer engagement) as well as assistance in finding the right career path -- through the Career Pathways Program & Student Resources.

Non-credit students may be able to place out of college-level courses or earn college credit for prior learning.

Wake Tech offers a variety of ways to receive college credit or place out of college-level courses. Options are described here: College Catalog, Registration & Student Records. 

Students who have earned industry-recognized certifications may not be required to take certain pre-requisite courses. Consult the Business and Industry Equivalencies section of the College Catalog. 

Examples of non-degree courses that can count for college credit. 
*Not a complete list. Check with your instructor to see if your course is eligible for college credit.