For the first time in decades, maybe ever, Northern Essex Community College is offering accelerated courses during the January break for students who want to get ahead.

These courses are open to current Northern Essex students as well as students from other colleges and universities who are interested in earning credits that can be transferred.

The classes will run Monday through Friday for two weeks, Jan.5 through 16, from 9 a.m. to mid-afternoon, and they will be taught on the Haverhill Campus. Options include Basic Algebra II, Basic Writing, English Composition I, Human Biology, Introduction to Accounting I and II, and Public Speaking.

Northern Essex decided to offer classes during the break after hearing students were interested. “Our students are very motivated and many are seeking innovative options that can accelerate their education and move them into the work force or help them transfer to a four-year program sooner,” said Tina Favara, interim dean of enrollment services. “This gives students the opportunity to earn an additional three-credit course this year.”

Northern Essex offers 70 certificate and associate degree programs in fields such as art and design, business, communications arts, computer and information sciences, criminal justice, liberal arts, health, performing arts, and much more. Twenty of those programs are offered completely online or 80* online and classes are offered days, evenings, and weekends.

To learn more about winter intersession courses offered at NECC, visit the website or contact Enrollment Services at admissions@necc.mass.edu or (978) 556-3700.