After graduation, not every student is ready to enter a four year commitment with a public or private college. For many, community college is an alternative and can serve many functions for many different types of needs:
- They provide a less expensive option for students who cannot afford the hefty tuition at many four year colleges.
- They provide transition for those who may want to pursue a bachelor's degree but are not ready to commit to a four year program, or unsure of the direction they would like to take.
- They are an option for students who may not have performed well enough in high school to be accepted into college, but who still want to pursue a degree.
- They offer flexible classes and online programs for students who work or are raising families.
- Continuing education programs provide classes for adult students who are looking to increase their marketability and level of skill does
What is a Community College?
Community colleges are educational institutions that offer courses towards two-year degrees, certifications, and continuing education to all who meet admissions requirements. Tuition for community college is usually far less expensive than four year public and private colleges. In order to keep tuition affordable, most community college are also funded by local taxes, state aid, and federal aid. Funding models vary state to state, but typically community colleges receive funding from a variety of sources in order to keep their tuitions low. As with other educational institutions, when aid decreases, tuition must increase.
What is an Associate's Degree?
An Associate's degree is most commonly earned at a community college, although some four year colleges offer programs. It is a two-year degree that reflects completion of approximately sixty college credits, or two years of course work. Some students work toward an Associate's degree in order to get career training in a certain field (early education, health services). Others earn their Associate's at a two year community college before transferring to a four year institution and working towards a Bachelor's degree. Most community colleges have agreements with colleges in the area or state that allow students to transfer credits from one institution to the other without penalization. Candidates usually earn one of three types of degree; Associate of Arts, Associate of Applied Science, or Associate of Science. Common areas of study include:
- business
- early childhood education
- information technology
- criminal justice
- accounting
- nursing
Which Community College is Right for Me?
There are several sites that allow you to search for the community colleges in your state including:
American Association of Community Colleges
You can also check out the top 50 community colleges as ranked by Washington Monthly or search Community College Week's Top 100 Associate Degree Producers list.
Meredith Laden - As a mom to two teenage daughters, a school counselor, and former behavior specialist for wraparound services, I've encountered just about ...
