About our Programs:

College Career Pathway

College Career Pathways (CCP) is a partnership between NVCC and regional area high schools to offer college-level courses on-site at local high schools. All CCP courses are articulated with NVCC and are delivered by the high school faculty. 

GEAR UP 

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a competitive,  federally funded program that provides six- and seven-year grants to education/community partnerships and states to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.

GEAR UP’s vision is that all students are academically, socially, and financially prepared to enter and complete the postsecondary program or institution of their choice. 

We believe that young people who start planning in middle school have a better chance of entering college and completing their degrees. 

Waterbury GEAR UP Alumni from 2012-2019, please visit our GEAR UP FAQ page. 
Current Waterbury GEAR UP students and families, please visit GEAR UP CT and Waterbury GEAR UP to stay connected!

Upward Bound 

Upward Bound, one of the oldest Trio Programs, is a highly successful college based program of rigorous academic instruction, individual tutoring and counseling for low-income, disadvantaged high school students.  Most students in the program are the first generation of their families to consider post-secondary education. 

During the summer, Upward Bound students attend classes and programs on the Waterbury campus of Naugatuck Valley Community College for six weeks. They are involved in an intensive academic study program with an emphasis on English, mathematics, science, foreign language, and global citizenship. During the academic year, Upward Bound students receive academic instruction, tutoring and mentoring after school. Mentors follow their progress in high school. Participating students learn about the college application process and how to apply for student financial assistance.

Upward Bound Math & Science 

The Upward Bound Math-Science Program is designed to help low-income and first-generation high school students recognize and develop their potential in math and science, pursue post secondary degrees, and ultimately careers in the math and science professions.  Activities, trips, and involvement are designed to help students become more familiar with S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education.