Black River Technical College (BRTC) is a public community college located in Pocahontas, Arkansas. Established in 1972, the college serves the Northeast Arkansas region, providing affordable and accessible higher education to the community. With a student-centered approach and a commitment to academic excellence, BRTC offers a wide range of academic programs, technical certificates, and workforce training opportunities.
Located in the heart of the Ozark foothills, Pocahontas is a small town with a rich history and culture. The town is named after the famous Native American princess and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, rivers, and hills. The area is known for its outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and hunting, and its close-knit community spirit.
The history of BRTC dates back to 1972, when it was founded as the Black River Vocational Technical School. The college was established to provide technical training and workforce development to the region, which was undergoing significant economic changes at the time. Over the years, BRTC has evolved and expanded its academic offerings, becoming a comprehensive community college that serves both traditional and non-traditional students.
BRTC offers a wide range of academic programs and technical certificates in fields such as business, healthcare, criminal justice, education, and agriculture. The college also provides workforce training opportunities in partnership with local businesses and industries, helping to prepare students for the demands of the job market. With small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty and staff, BRTC is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic and career goals.
Some of the most popular majors at BRTC include nursing, allied health, criminal justice, agriculture, and education. The nursing program is especially renowned for its quality and rigor, and graduates of the program have a high rate of success on licensure exams. BRTC also offers an Associate of Science in General Education degree, which is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution to complete their bachelor’s degree.
In addition to academic programs, BRTC offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and student organizations. The college has a vibrant student life community, with events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and cultural festivals. BRTC also has a strong commitment to community service, and students are encouraged to participate in volunteer projects and service learning opportunities.
One of the standout features of BRTC is its commitment to innovation and technology. The college has invested heavily in state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including a Virtual Reality Lab, an Advanced Manufacturing Lab, and a Cybersecurity Lab. These resources allow students to gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies and to develop the skills needed to succeed in today’s rapidly changing job market.