Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About Northwest Shoals Community College
Set in the heart of Muscle Shoals, where American music found its groove, Northwest Shoals Community College has a reputation for hands-on learning and clear academic pathways. Students build strong foundations in liberal arts, health sciences, skilled trades, business, and information technology. The Muscle Shoals campus features well-equipped labs, a welcoming library and learning commons, tutoring and advising, plus student services that support veterans, accessibility needs, and college affordability.
Campus life leans friendly and practical. You'll find clubs, honor groups, and low-key intramurals, along with plenty of riverfront escapes and a local music scene that adds color after class. The culture is down-to-earth and student first. Career preparation shows up in resume help, interview practice, and employer connections across regional industry and health care. Students often tap local workplaces for part-time roles and practicum experiences. As part of a two-campus college, resources travel well, and the school is known for smooth transfer routes and flexible, real-world minded study.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Alabama. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Liberal Arts (3)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1199 | Postsecondary Teachers, All Other | $94,470 | $67,060 | -$27,410 (-29%) |
24.0102
General Studies.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1199 | Postsecondary Teachers, All Other | $94,470 | $67,060 | -$27,410 (-29%) |
Production (5)
Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts
48.0503
Machine Shop Technology/Assistant.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
51-2041 | Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters | $52,740 | $40,970 | -$11,770 (-22.3%) |
51-4033 | Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $46,600 | $41,530 | -$5,070 (-10.9%) |
51-4041 | Machinists | $57,390 | $55,110 | -$2,280 (-4%) |
51-4081 | Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $48,590 | $30,760 | -$17,830 (-36.7%) |
51-4191 | Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $49,030 | $48,180 | -$850 (-1.7%) |
51-4192 | Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic | $65,770 | $47,810 | -$17,960 (-27.3%) |
51-4194 | Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners | $51,790 | $54,350 | +$2,560 (+4.9%) |
51-4199 | Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other | $45,850 | $58,720 | +$12,870 (+28.1%) |
51-9161 | Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators | $52,900 | $44,570 | -$8,330 (-15.7%) |
48.0508
Welding Technology/Welder.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
51-4121 | Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers | $55,100 | $43,350 | -$11,750 (-21.3%) |
51-4122 | Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders | $49,270 | $34,050 | -$15,220 (-30.9%) |
48.0703
Cabinetmaking and Millwork.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
51-7011 | Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters | $47,460 | $40,490 | -$6,970 (-14.7%) |
51-7031 | Model Makers, Wood | $59,780 | N/A | N/A |
51-7032 | Patternmakers, Wood | $57,920 | N/A | N/A |
51-7041 | Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood | $42,390 | $36,240 | -$6,150 (-14.5%) |
51-7042 | Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing | $42,290 | $33,890 | -$8,400 (-19.9%) |
51-7099 | Woodworkers, All Other | $43,730 | $46,710 | +$2,980 (+6.8%) |
Health (10)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.0801
Medical/Clinical Assistant.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $98,210 | -$39,690 (-28.8%) |
31-9092 | Medical Assistants | $44,720 | $32,620 | -$12,100 (-27.1%) |
51.0904
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $98,210 | -$39,690 (-28.8%) |
29-2042 | Emergency Medical Technicians | $44,790 | $35,480 | -$9,310 (-20.8%) |
29-2043 | Paramedics | $60,610 | $42,550 | -$18,060 (-29.8%) |
51.0910
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $98,210 | -$39,690 (-28.8%) |
29-2032 | Diagnostic Medical Sonographers | $92,550 | $57,390 | -$35,160 (-38%) |
51.0911
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $98,210 | -$39,690 (-28.8%) |
29-2034 | Radiologic Technologists and Technicians | $79,760 | $51,170 | -$28,590 (-35.8%) |
51.3801
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1072 | Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary | $87,090 | $69,730 | -$17,360 (-19.9%) |
29-1141 | Registered Nurses | $98,430 | $67,740 | -$30,690 (-31.2%) |
51.3901
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.
(Cert<1y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
29-2061 | Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | $64,150 | $47,460 | -$16,690 (-26%) |
Mechanics (8)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
47.0105
Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
49-2094 | Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment | $72,950 | $66,430 | -$6,520 (-8.9%) |
51-9141 | Semiconductor Processing Technicians | $59,640 | N/A | N/A |
47.0303
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
47-4021 | Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers | $104,860 | $75,250 | -$29,610 (-28.2%) |
49-9012 | Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door | $75,970 | $63,240 | -$12,730 (-16.8%) |
49-9041 | Industrial Machinery Mechanics | $67,160 | $53,830 | -$13,330 (-19.8%) |
49-9043 | Maintenance Workers, Machinery | $61,820 | $51,380 | -$10,440 (-16.9%) |
49-9044 | Millwrights | $68,640 | $57,520 | -$11,120 (-16.2%) |
49-9045 | Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons | $61,480 | $46,080 | -$15,400 (-25%) |
49-9081 | Wind Turbine Service Technicians | $67,580 | N/A | N/A |
47.0603
Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
13-1032 | Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage | $77,050 | N/A | N/A |
49-3021 | Automotive Body and Related Repairers | $58,830 | $49,810 | -$9,020 (-15.3%) |
49-3022 | Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers | $49,580 | $41,200 | -$8,380 (-16.9%) |
51-9124 | Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders | $51,610 | $46,280 | -$5,330 (-10.3%) |
47.0604
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
49-2093 | Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment | $80,980 | $67,900 | -$13,080 (-16.2%) |
49-2096 | Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles | $50,240 | N/A | N/A |
49-3023 | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $55,260 | $46,810 | -$8,450 (-15.3%) |
Construction (5)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
46.0201
Carpentry/Carpenter.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $66,640 | -$17,860 (-21.1%) |
47-2031 | Carpenters | $64,040 | $44,310 | -$19,730 (-30.8%) |
46.0302
Electrician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $66,640 | -$17,860 (-21.1%) |
47-2111 | Electricians | $69,630 | $53,960 | -$15,670 (-22.5%) |
49-2098 | Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers | $60,040 | $54,450 | -$5,590 (-9.3%) |
49-9097 | Signal and Track Switch Repairers | $84,940 | N/A | N/A |
46.0503
Plumbing Technology/Plumber.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $66,640 | -$17,860 (-21.1%) |
47-2152 | Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters | $69,940 | $50,690 | -$19,250 (-27.5%) |
47-4071 | Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners | $52,730 | $42,690 | -$10,040 (-19%) |
Eng. Technologies (7)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
15.0501
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3029 | Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other | $79,740 | $70,320 | -$9,420 (-11.8%) |
49-9021 | Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers | $62,690 | $50,030 | -$12,660 (-20.2%) |
15.0506
Water Quality and Wastewater Treatment Management and Recycling Technology/Technician.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3025 | Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $63,070 | $67,880 | +$4,810 (+7.6%) |
19-4042 | Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $56,770 | $42,990 | -$13,780 (-24.3%) |
51-8031 | Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators | $60,620 | $42,740 | -$17,880 (-29.5%) |
15.0507
Environmental/Environmental Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3025 | Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $63,070 | $67,880 | +$4,810 (+7.6%) |
19-4042 | Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $56,770 | $42,990 | -$13,780 (-24.3%) |
15.1301
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3011 | Architectural and Civil Drafters | $68,860 | $53,980 | -$14,880 (-21.6%) |
17-3012 | Electrical and Electronics Drafters | $77,960 | $65,450 | -$12,510 (-16%) |
17-3013 | Mechanical Drafters | $74,040 | $49,000 | -$25,040 (-33.8%) |
17-3019 | Drafters, All Other | $66,530 | N/A | N/A |
Personal Services (4)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
12.0401
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-5012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $43,460 | $33,690 | -$9,770 (-22.5%) |
39-5091 | Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance | $75,410 | N/A | N/A |
39-5092 | Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,910 | $30,350 | -$6,560 (-17.8%) |
39-5093 | Shampooers | $30,830 | $21,210 | -$9,620 (-31.2%) |
39-5094 | Skincare Specialists | $48,670 | $45,620 | -$3,050 (-6.3%) |
12.0412
Salon/Beauty Salon Management/Manager.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9179 | Personal Service Managers, All Other | $70,620 | N/A | N/A |
39-1022 | First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers | $50,920 | $42,440 | -$8,480 (-16.7%) |
39-5011 | Barbers | $47,800 | $27,640 | -$20,160 (-42.2%) |
39-5012 | Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $43,460 | $33,690 | -$9,770 (-22.5%) |
Computer & IT (3)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0101
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-3021 | Computer and Information Systems Managers | $187,990 | $142,570 | -$45,420 (-24.2%) |
15-1211 | Computer Systems Analysts | $111,960 | $107,760 | -$4,200 (-3.8%) |
15-1221 | Computer and Information Research Scientists | $152,310 | $108,720 | -$43,590 (-28.6%) |
15-1241 | Computer Network Architects | $135,890 | $130,600 | -$5,290 (-3.9%) |
15-1242 | Database Administrators | $107,440 | $103,240 | -$4,200 (-3.9%) |
15-1243 | Database Architects | $142,620 | $121,830 | -$20,790 (-14.6%) |
15-1244 | Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $101,190 | $78,690 | -$22,500 (-22.2%) |
15-1253 | Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | $110,260 | $98,900 | -$11,360 (-10.3%) |
15-1255 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | $111,450 | $68,310 | -$43,140 (-38.7%) |
15-1299 | Computer Occupations, All Other | $116,700 | $93,250 | -$23,450 (-20.1%) |
25-1021 | Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,830 | $123,940 | +$18,110 (+17.1%) |
Interdisciplinary (1)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
30.9999
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
99-9999 | NO MATCH | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Business (4)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0302
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
13-2082 | Tax Preparers | $58,860 | $34,300 | -$24,560 (-41.7%) |
43-3031 | Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks | $52,020 | $39,840 | -$12,180 (-23.4%) |
43-3051 | Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks | $56,870 | $43,510 | -$13,360 (-23.5%) |
43-4011 | Brokerage Clerks | $67,680 | $70,450 | +$2,770 (+4.1%) |
43-9111 | Statistical Assistants | $55,470 | N/A | N/A |
52.0401
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Alabama Avg | AL vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
43-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers | $71,560 | $55,900 | -$15,660 (-21.9%) |
43-4161 | Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping | $50,950 | $41,510 | -$9,440 (-18.5%) |
43-6011 | Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants | $77,060 | $71,400 | -$5,660 (-7.3%) |
43-6014 | Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive | $47,640 | $39,200 | -$8,440 (-17.7%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC)
How much does it cost to attend Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC)?
The annual tuition at Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) is $5,071 for in-state students and $8,881 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $6,671 for in-state students and $10,481 for out-of-state students. Additional costs include room and board $9,336 (off-campus) and books and supplies $1,600.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does Northwest Shoals Community College offer?
Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) offers 58 academic programs across 13 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Residency, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (10 programs)
- Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (8 programs)
- Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support (7 programs)
- Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts (5 programs)
- Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts (5 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at Northwest Shoals Community College?
Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) provides financial aid to 11% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $6,959 and average loans of $3,099.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $7,135
- State/Local grants: $564
- Institutional grants: $3,204
- Federal loans: $3,099
The university supports 356 students with grants and 249 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for Northwest Shoals Community College graduates?
Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) graduates earn a median salary of $31,469 after 6 years and $33,828 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $17,252 (25th percentile) to $51,875 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $59,300 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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