The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis made the national spotlight earlier this summer when a Forbes article ranked NCTA 16th among the nation’s top 25 trade schools.

“Once again, the exceptional quality of NCTA academic programs has been recognized nationally due to the success of our graduates after they enter their careers. This is a true test of the effectiveness of a college focused on workforce development,” says Ron Rosati, NCTA dean.

Focusing on hands-on learning and workforce development in agriculture and veterinary technology, NCTA is the sole two-year college program in the University of Nebraska system.

“The top 25 ranking by Forbes is terrific news and reaffirms what most of us already know – that NCTA is among the best when it comes to preparing those passionate about agriculture and animal health,” says Mike Boehm, University of Nebraska vice president for agriculture and natural resources and vice chancellor of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “Congratulations to all current and former students, and thanks to NCTA’s student-centered and amazing faculty and staff!’’

It's the second year in a row that NCTA has been named among top trade schools in an online review by Forbes.

Scoring criteria evaluated graduate success, affordability, completion rates and student experiences.

“This assessment reinforces that NCTA provides access to outstanding academic programs in a cost-effective manner,” Rosati says. “Our approach by faculty and staff helps to create successful students on campus and successful graduates in the workforce.”

In 2017, NCTA was ranked 27th of the Top 30.

Many trade schools and colleges saw declining enrollments over the past eight years, the Forbes article noted. However, NCTA expects a fifth year in a row of more students on campus, perhaps the highest attendance since 2011, said Rosati.

See the Top 25 list and scoring criteria.

Source: NCTA