Top 15 Community Colleges in California

Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC) is a top community college in Walnut, California, serving 61,000+ students. It offers nearly 400 degree and certificate programs, including a standout aviation program. The 420-acre campus has a farm, veterinary hospital, Olympic-quality stadium, and even a student-run restaurant.

Student life is active with 50+ clubs and strong sports teams, including the famous Mt. SAC Relays. Tuition is just $46 per unit, with millions in financial aid available. Affordable, well-equipped, and packed with opportunities—Mt. SAC is a great place to start or advance your education!

Moorpark College, established in 1967, is a public community college located in Moorpark, California. Part of the Ventura County Community College District, it offers over 1,000 classes each semester across various disciplines, including career education programs in partnership with workforce development and industry partners. The college serves a diverse student body of approximately 14,147 individuals, with a student-first philosophy emphasizing social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The campus spans 150 acres and features notable facilities such as America's Teaching Zoo, the Charles Temple Observatory, and the Performing Arts Center, which are utilized for both classes and community events. Moorpark College has been recognized for its commitment to excellence and affordability, providing a rich and vibrant campus experience, as well as online and hybrid learning options to accommodate the needs of all students.

Irvine Valley College (IVC), located in Irvine, California, is a top-rated community college known for its high transfer rates to prestigious universities like UC Irvine, UCLA, and UC Berkeley. Offering over 160 degrees and certificates, IVC provides clear pathways for students aiming to transfer or enter the workforce. The college boasts modern facilities across its 60-acre campus and is recognized as the #1 community college in California and #6 in the nation.

With a diverse student body of over 15,000, IVC emphasizes student equity, inclusion, and success. The college offers substantial financial aid, distributing more than $20 million annually, and provides programs like the Irvine Valley Promise, which offers two years of free tuition to eligible first-time students. IVC's commitment to excellence is further highlighted by its recent recognition as a "Great College to Work For" and its status as a Military Friendly School.

Golden West College (GWC), located in Huntington Beach, California, is a public institution known for its strong academic programs and comprehensive student support services. Established in 1966, GWC offers a variety of associate degrees and certificates, with pathways for students aiming to transfer to four-year universities or enhance their careers. The college serves approximately 11,396 students on its 122-acre campus, which features ample green spaces and mature trees.

<[>GWC is committed to affordability and student success. In the 2021-2022 academic year, the college awarded $31 million in financial aid and over $400,000 in scholarships in 2023. Tuition for California residents is $46 per unit, while non-residents pay $407 per unit. The college also boasts a vibrant athletics program, with 91 state championships to its name.

College of San Mateo (CSM), established in 1922, is a public community college located on a scenic 153-acre campus in the San Mateo hills, offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay. As part of the San Mateo County Community College District, CSM serves approximately 10,000 students, providing pathways for university transfer, career preparation, and personal development.

The college offers a variety of associate degree and certificate programs across multiple disciplines. Notably, CSM has transfer admission guarantees with several University of California campuses, numerous California State University campuses, and many private colleges in California. Additionally, CSM provides career and technical programs in fields such as multimedia, green technologies, cosmetology, nursing, broadcasting, accounting, computer and information science, fire technology, and dental assisting.

Imperial Valley College (IVC), established in 1962, is a public community college located in Imperial County, California. Serving approximately 7,000 students annually, IVC offers affordable education at $46 per unit for in-state tuition. The college provides a range of associate degrees and certificates, with 3,956 associate degrees and 1,075 certificates awarded in the last academic year. IVC is committed to fostering excellence in education, assisting students in achieving their educational and career goals, and being responsive to the greater community.

The main campus sits on a 160-acre site in the city of Imperial, with extended campuses in El Centro and Brawley. IVC offers various student support services, including financial aid, counseling, tutoring, and resources for military veterans. The college also promotes an active campus life with athletics, clubs, and cultural events. In June 2023, IVC updated its mascot to the "Desert Warriors" to better reflect its community and values.

Central Valley location

Ventura College, established in 1925, is a public community college located in Ventura, California. The 112-acre campus offers clear views of the Channel Islands and serves approximately 14,500 students each semester. As part of the Ventura County Community College District, it provides a range of associate degrees, certificates, and opportunities for skill enhancement.

The college offers diverse programs, including career technical education, general education transfer courses, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. Student services such as academic counseling, financial aid assistance, and health resources are readily available. Additionally, the East Campus in Santa Paula extends educational access to the Santa Clara River Valley communities.

Coastal Southern California location

Santiago Canyon College (SCC) is a public community college located in Orange, California. Established in 1985, it operates within the Rancho Santiago Community College District alongside Santa Ana College. SCC offers 65 associate degree programs, serving a diverse student body of over 15,000 as of Fall 2022. The college is dedicated to fostering student success through innovative learning and personal growth opportunities.

Beyond academics, SCC provides a vibrant campus life with various student support services, including financial aid, counseling, and career education. The college's athletics teams, known as the Hawks, compete in the Orange Empire Conference, with sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, and softball. Notably, the women's soccer team secured back-to-back state championships in 2018 and 2019.

Cañada College is a public institution located in Redwood City, California, offering over 100 programs, including associate degrees and certificates. With a total enrollment of approximately 5,231 students, the college provides a range of student support services, such as mentoring, financial aid, and transfer assistance to four-year universities.

The college emphasizes accessibility and affordability, currently offering free tuition for the spring semester. Students can choose from various interest areas and have the option to complete degrees and certificates fully online. The campus also offers resources like the mySMCCD Student Portal for easy access to academic tools and information.

Oxnard College, established in 1975, is a public community college located in Oxnard, California, near Ventura County's beaches. The campus spans 118 acres and serves approximately 6,941 students. It offers 18 certificate programs, 17 associate degrees for transfer, and 37 associate degrees across more than 60 disciplines. The college is organized into four academic departments: Career and Technical Education, Liberal Studies, Math/Science/Health/PE/Athletics, and Transitional Studies. Notably, Oxnard College is set to launch a four-year bachelor's degree program in dental hygiene in the fall of 2025.

Beyond academics, Oxnard College provides various student services, including the Dream Resource Center for undocumented students and the Extended Opportunities Program (EOPS) to assist low-income students. The college's athletic teams, known as the Condors, compete in the California Community College Athletic Association's Western State Conference. Over the years, the campus has seen significant developments, such as the opening of the Condor Café in 2009, a new Student Services building in 2009, a Performing Arts building in 2011, and a Library Learning Resource Center in 2012. Renovations have also enhanced athletic facilities, including a new track/soccer stadium and upgraded baseball amenities.

Sierra College, established in 1936, is a public community college located in Rocklin, California. Serving over 18,000 students annually, it offers more than 120 degrees and certificates across various fields. The college provides flexible learning options, including traditional, online, and hybrid courses, catering to diverse student needs. Notably, Sierra College has 28 associate degrees with guaranteed transfers to California State Universities, facilitating a smooth transition for students aiming to continue their education.

Beyond academics, Sierra College boasts a vibrant campus life with over 25 student clubs, cultural events, and a strong athletics program featuring 18 intercollegiate teams. The college emphasizes community enrichment through its Dietrich Theatre, Ridley Gallery, and a nationally recognized Natural History Museum. With campuses in Rocklin, Grass Valley, and Tahoe-Truckee, Sierra College remains committed to providing accessible and affordable education to its community.

Grossmont College, established in 1961, is a public community college located in El Cajon, California, near San Diego. Serving nearly 19,000 students each semester, it offers over 150 certificate and associate degree programs, including specialized fields like Nursing, Digital Media, and Culinary Arts. The campus features modern facilities such as the Griffin Center, Science Laboratory Building, and Health and Sciences Complex.

As part of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District, Grossmont College provides affordable education at $46 per unit, with many students transferring to universities like San Diego State University. The college also supports student-athletes with programs in sports like basketball, soccer, and volleyball. Additionally, it offers resources like the Accessibility Resource Center to assist students with diverse needs.

College of the Sequoias (COS) is a public community college in Visalia, California, serving Tulare and Kings counties. It offers affordable education with associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to universities. Popular programs include nursing, agriculture, business, and industrial technology. The campus is known for its small class sizes, hands-on learning, and strong support services like tutoring and counseling.

COS also has satellite campuses in Hanford and Tulare, expanding access to students. It provides career training, athletics, and extracurricular activities to enhance student life. With flexible schedules, online courses, and financial aid options, COS is a solid choice for students looking for a cost-effective path to a career or four-year university.

Porterville College, located at 100 East College Avenue in Porterville, California, is the northernmost institution in the Kern Community College District. Serving areas of Kern, Tulare, Inyo, and San Bernardino Counties, it emphasizes innovation, creativity, and diversity within its learning community. The college fosters close interactions between students, faculty, and staff to support student success.

As a charter member of the League for Innovation in the Community Colleges, Porterville College offers quality academic programs and comprehensive support services. The campus features various facilities, including a theater, library media center, child development center, and sports amenities like a gymnasium and swimming pools. The college is committed to providing educational opportunities to its diverse student body.

Yuba College, established in 1927, is a public community college located in Marysville, California. The main campus spans 160 acres and comprises 23 buildings. In 2012, the college expanded by opening the Sutter County Center in Yuba City, enhancing accessibility for students in the region.

As part of the Yuba Community College District, Yuba College offers over 90 programs leading to certificates, associate degrees, or transfer opportunities to four-year universities. The college maintains strong partnerships with local high schools and universities, facilitating dual or concurrent enrollment for eligible high school students. This collaboration enables students to progress toward their educational goals efficiently and cost-effectively.