Quick Facts
Public community college with open access and strong transfer programs
Location
Danvers and Lynn, MA
Degrees
Certificates, Associate's
Popular Majors
Liberal Arts/General Studies, Nursing, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Health Sciences, Early Childhood Education, Computer Science
Total Students	Undergrad Students
~5,000	All undergraduate
Tuition (2025-2026, in-state full-time)	Room and Board
$5,616	No on-campus housing
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Open Admission	$7,800
Distance from Boston	School Website
20 miles north
* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

North Shore Community College (NSCC), founded in 1965, is a public two-year institution serving the North Shore region of Massachusetts. As an open-access college, NSCC provides affordable pathways to associate degrees, certificates, workforce training, and seamless transfer to four-year universities. With campuses in Danvers and Lynn plus additional locations, the college emphasizes equity, inclusion, and student success for a diverse population including first-generation, working, and international learners.

NSCC offers over 80 academic programs, with popular pathways in liberal arts for transfer, nursing, business, criminal justice, health sciences, and computer technology.

The college supports flexible learning with day, evening, weekend, online, and hybrid courses to accommodate busy schedules.

As a community college, NSCC specializes in two-year degrees with strong articulation agreements to Massachusetts public universities and private partners.

NSCC fields competitive NJCAA teams in basketball, soccer, and other sports.

The Danvers and Lynn campuses offer modern facilities with commuter-friendly access near Boston.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Transfer Pathways>

International Students>

Visiting NSCC>

Academics

North Shore Community College offers accessible, high-quality education through more than 80 associate degree and certificate programs designed for transfer or direct workforce entry. Popular options include Liberal Arts/General Studies (for seamless university transfer), Nursing, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Health Sciences, Early Childhood Education, and Computer Science. Classes are available in multiple formats—day, evening, weekend, online, and hybrid—to support working adults and commuters. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while free tutoring, learning communities, honors courses, and service-learning projects enhance engagement. NSCC's focus on career readiness and academic foundations prepares students for immediate employment or successful transfer to bachelor's programs.

Admission

North Shore Community College maintains an open admission policy, welcoming all applicants with a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent—no entrance exams or minimum GPA required for most programs. Applications are free and accepted year-round on a rolling basis, with recommended deadlines for financial aid and selective health programs (e.g., Nursing requires additional steps like TEAS exam and prerequisites). Placement testing in English and math helps determine starting course levels, with support available for skill-building. International students follow specific guidelines for transcripts and English proficiency. This accessible approach makes NSCC an ideal starting point for first-generation college students, adult learners, veterans, and those seeking a second chance at higher education.

Career Outcomes

North Shore graduates achieve strong results, with many entering the workforce directly in high-demand fields or transferring to complete bachelor's degrees. Career services provide resume assistance, job fairs, internship connections, and employer partnerships in the North Shore and Boston region. Popular pathways lead to roles in healthcare, business, public safety, education, and technology. The college's workforce training programs and certificates align with regional needs, offering quick entry into growing sectors. Transfer students benefit from guaranteed admission agreements (MassTransfer) to Massachusetts public universities, ensuring smooth progression and credit acceptance. Alumni report high satisfaction with NSCC's practical preparation and support for long-term success.

Campus

North Shore Community College's main Danvers campus features modern buildings, green spaces, and easy commuter access, while the Lynn campus serves additional communities with specialized facilities. Both locations offer updated classrooms, science labs, library, fitness center, and student lounges. Public transit and parking support commuters, while partnerships with nearby institutions enrich resources. The campuses reflect NSCC's community mission—welcoming, diverse, and focused on student achievement.

Student Life

North Shore fosters an inclusive, supportive community for its diverse commuter population, with students from varied backgrounds and many countries. Over 50 clubs and organizations—covering cultural, academic, leadership, and special interest groups—offer ways to connect and lead. Events like cultural festivals, guest speakers, wellness workshops, and service projects build community. Athletics include competitive NJCAA teams in basketball, soccer, and other sports. Support services such as food pantry, counseling, childcare assistance, and veteran resources address real needs. While primarily commuter-focused, the college fosters belonging through lounges, activities, and advocacy for student voices.

Transfer Pathways

Visiting North Shore Community College