The technical programs can be completed entirely at Catawba Valley Community College. They prepare you to enter a specific career field. The college offers three types of recognition for completing these programs.

• An associate degree is awarded for programs that take two years of full-time attendance to complete. These programs require some general education courses such as math, English and social sciences. They also require a large number of courses directly related to a certain type of job.
• A diploma program takes less time to complete. Many of these programs are offered in the late afternoon and evening. They require a few general education courses, but mostly concentrate on teaching you the skills for a certain job.
• Certificate programs are skill training only. They do not require any classes other than those necessary to perform the job. Students in these programs spend a lot of time in labs or shops practicing hands-on skills with lots of attention from the instructor. Many of these programs are offered in the late afternoon and evening.