Academics

Reimagine Your Pathway to Purpose
Start Anywhere. Build Momentum. Ready. Set. Gold.

Southwest Tennessee Community College meets students where they are and empowers them to move forward with purpose.

Whether you are a high school student starting college, an adult learner seeking a short-term certificate or degree, or a working professional looking to upskill or earn credit for your experience through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), Southwest offers academic pathways designed to meet your goals. Students can earn credential-level pins as they progress —Bronze for high school students who are dual enrollment achievers, Silver for certificate completion, and Gold for degree completion—recognizing each stage of academic achievement.

We offer more than 110 programs of study and 150+ credentials through on-campus, online, and hybrid options. Many programs use our “2-for-1” model, embedding industry-recognized certificates directly into degree pathways. This allows you to earn stacked credentials along the way, preparing you for immediate employment, career advancement or transfer to a four-year university.

If you already have work experience, military training, or prior learning, you may be able to earn college credit for what you already know through PLA, helping you finish faster and save money.

No matter where you start, Southwest provides flexible pathways to help you earn a credential, launch your career, advance in your field or continue your education.

Explore our programs below to find the path that’s right for you.