The school systems within Marshall County consistently rank above the state and national averages for test scores and graduation rates. Several of the schools located within Marshall County have ranked in the top 10 for the state. View Marshall County’s demographics for statistics about the educational attainment of residents in the county.
HIGH SCHOOL CAREER / TECHNICAL EDUCATION
Career & Technical Education: Preparing Marshall County Students for the Future
Marshall County places a strong emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE) as a key pathway to workforce readiness and lifelong success. Local school systems collaborate closely with business and industry partners to ensure that students acquire real-world skills that align with regional job opportunities.
Our county consistently exceeds the state average in:
- Student participation in career and technical programs
- Post-graduation success, with more CTE students gaining employment or continuing their education after high school
From welding and health sciences to information technology and skilled trades, students across Marshall County are actively preparing for both technical careers and post-secondary studies through hands-on learning and work-based experiences.
Participating School Systems:
- Albertville City Schools
- Arab City Schools
- Boaz City Schools
- Guntersville City Schools
- Marshall County Schools
Together, these systems are shaping a future-ready workforce, ensuring that students graduate with the skills and confidence to succeed in college, careers, or both.
HIGHER EDUCATION
Higher Education Opportunities in and Around Marshall County
Marshall County is home to a strong network of community and technical colleges that provide accessible, affordable, and career-aligned education for students of all ages. These institutions support both academic transfer pathways and career technical training that directly align with local workforce needs.
Local & Regional College Options:
Snead State Community College – Boaz & Guntersville
Located in the heart of Marshall County, Snead State offers two-year associate degrees, career technical programs, certifications, and a new Workforce & Career Institute in Guntersville. Programs range from healthcare and business to welding, HVAC, and industrial systems.
snead.edu
Northeast Alabama Community College – Rainsville
Known for its high student satisfaction and strong academic support, Northeast Alabama offers both university transfer programs and hands-on career training.
nacc.edu
Wallace State Community College – Hanceville
Wallace State provides a wide range of degree and certificate programs, including nursing, diesel mechanics, and engineering technologies. The college is recognized for its innovative approach to health sciences and technical training.
wallacestate.edu
Gadsden State Community College – Gadsden & Surrounding Campuses
Gadsden State offers a variety of programs, including industrial automation, computer science, business, and healthcare. Its proximity makes it a convenient option for residents of Marshall County.
gadsdenstate.edu
Calhoun Community College – Tanner & Huntsville
Calhoun is one of Alabama’s largest two-year colleges, offering associate degrees in advanced manufacturing, aerospace technology, robotics, and more.
calhoun.edu
Drake State Community & Technical College – Huntsville
Focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), Drake State is a historically Black community college offering workforce-ready programs and associate degrees in high-demand fields.
drakestate.edu
Why It Matters
This regional network of colleges equips residents with affordable education, specialized training, and pathways to high-demand careers, supporting both personal success and the long-term vitality of Marshall County’s workforce.