Community colleges provide degrees and training in one to two years.
Community colleges are two-year, post-secondary institutions that often provide students with the general education courses they need to transfer to a four-year college or the technical classes they need to enter the workplace in a specific trade. Each community college governs itself, but similarities exist for community college requirements and the cost of completing their degrees and programs.
Admission Requirements
Public community colleges generally have an open admissions policy that allows almost anyone to take classes from their institution. A high school diploma or GED certificate is usually required, but some colleges allow high school students to enroll in certain programs or courses, and possibly to earn dual credits. Very few community colleges have set academic standards that require students to have a specific grade point average (GPA) or standardized test score for admission, as most four-year institutions require. Specific programs at community colleges may have these types of requirements, but enrollment as a student taking general education courses is often open to everyone. Becoming a student at a community college requires completion of an admission application, payment of an application fee and submission of high school and other college transcripts.
Degree Types
Community colleges offer certificates and associate degrees. Certificates provide training in a specific field without requiring students to take general education courses. Those who choose to take the general education courses as well often graduate with an associate degree. This generally takes two years to complete and gives students the options of entering the workforce or transferring to a four-year college.
Course Requirements
The courses that you are required to take at a community college depend upon your major and the type of degree you are pursuing. Students seeking an associate degree must take general education courses such English composition, college algebra and speech. A student majoring in a science or health-related field will take more science courses than students majoring in art or literature.
Cost
Each community college sets its own rates for tuition and fees, so the cost can vary greatly depending upon your institution and whether or not you are a resident of the state where the school is located. Tuition is usually based on actual credit hours rather than a flat fee for the year.
For assistance in paying for your education, it's important to visit the financial aid office at the community college you choose to attend. They can assist you in securing grants, scholarships, student loans or other assistance to help you finance your education.
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