College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

Human Lactation Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Human Lactation Pathway 2 Graduate Certificate Program at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University (NCAT P2P)?

The NCAT P2P is an accredited, graduate-level Pathway 2 Lactation Consultant training program that provides students with 150 didactic hours and 300+ clinical hours. It is the first Pathway 2 program at a public, Historically Black College and University (HBCU) and the only Pathway 2 program that provides students with an additional course in cultural diversity and communication in healthcare. Students in the program earn 18 graduate credit hours and are prepared to sit for the International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) certification exam.

What is a Pathway 2 program?

There are 3 pathways to become an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Pathway 2 is known as the “Accredited Academic Program” Pathway.

Is the NCAT P2P a distance learning program?

No, the coursework in the NCAT P2P is taught face to face

How long does it take to complete the NCAT P2P?

The NCAT P2P comprises 18 credit hours that can be completed in one academic year (August-May) by enrolling in three courses in the fall semester and three courses in the spring semester.

What are the NCAT P2P application requirements?

Before applying to the NCAT P2P , you must have the following:

A Bachelor’s Degree (in any discipline)
Completion of the 8 Health & Science Requirements (with the exception of 1 class that can be taken during the Fall semester. Please review the Student Handbook for more information.) The prerequisites can be found here: https://iblce.org/step-1-prepare-for-ibclc-certification/health-sciences-education-2/health-sciences-summary/

Can I work a part-time or full-time job and enroll in the NCAT P2P simultaneously?

This is certainly up to the student. However, please keep in mind that this is a Master’s level program and graduate-level work is expected. Students will have 3 courses each semester and will also complete at least one, 8-10hrs clinical day each week.

How much does the NCAT P2P cost?

Please review the NCAT Tuition & Fees link: https://www.ncat.edu/admissions/cost-to-attend/index.php. Keep in mind that there may be a practicum fee associated with the program.

How can I apply to the NCAT P2P?

Applications go LIVE on our webpage and the application period is late February - early April. Please visit our page for more detailed information: https://www.ncat.edu/caes/departments/family-and-consumer-sciences/lactation-cert.php