Curriculum Updates Coming Fall 2026
Starting in Fall 2026, Ocean County College will launch a new, simplified way to choose your program, plan your classes, and prepare for transfer or your career.
This new Pathways curriculum is designed to:
● Make it easier to explore programs.
● Help you choose the right courses.
● Keep you on track to graduate.
● Connect your studies to your transfer and career goals.
• Provide additional clarity, flexibility, and a smoother path to success.
What Does This Mean?
Here’s what you need to know →
Graduating before Summer 2027?
You do not need to take any action. You can continue with your current academic plan.
Graduating after Summer 2027?
● Meet with an academic advisor to review your plan. Schedule an appointment or walk in during business hours
● Review the FAQ for details
New Students Starting in Fall 2026 or After?
You will automatically follow the new curriculum. You don’t need to do anything!
Learn More
Visit our Areas of Study page to explore:
● Transfer pathways for each Area of Study
● How the new structure fits your degree program
● Upcoming information sessions
We’re excited about these changes and look forward to supporting you to make the most of your time at OCC!
Pathways at Ocean: Student FAQ
Beginning Fall 2026, Ocean County College will launch the new Pathways curriculum. Below are answers to common questions to help you understand what this may mean for you:
In most cases, you do not need to take immediate action.
- If you are graduating before Summer 2027, you can stay on your current academic plan.
- If you are graduating after Summer 2027, you should meet with an advisor to review your options.
- Some majors will be renamed under broader “Areas of Study,” but programs are not disappearing. Instead, they are being streamlined and grouped to make planning easier and clearer.
- Instead of the term “major,” you may hear advisors and faculty talk about “Concentrations” instead. While they mean largely the same thing, OCC now has Concentrations that are built for better transfer and flexibility.
If you are unsure how your specific major may be affected, the best first step is to meet with an advisor.
Yes. Students can update their major anytime to match the requirements in the current College Catalog.
If you’re interested, meet with an advisor to review your options.
Yes — but only for a limited time.
• You may change your major under the 2025–2026 Catalog through August 30, 2026.
• Any change of major after August 30, 2026 will move you into the new 2026–2027 Areas of Study curriculum.
An advisor can help you decide which option is best for you.
No. Students who move into Pathways will still be able to graduate on time.
• Previously completed coursework in similar degree programs will carry over.
• Academic Advisors will work with you to apply your credits as efficiently as possible.
• Your progress toward graduation remains a priority.
No. You will still be able to transfer.
Pathways include clearly designed transfer pathways to make the process as smooth as possible. Advisors will help you plan ahead to ensure your courses align with your transfer goals.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help. Meet with an advisor to learn more, so you feel confident about your choice.
These changes make choosing a major, planning your courses, and reaching your goals simpler and more streamlined. We’re excited to support you every step of the way.
