College of the Canyons (COC)

College of the Canyons is a two-year community college offering associate's degrees in more than 60 programs, and professional certificates in more than 65 programs. Academic programs range from television, film and video production to video game animation, or biotechnology to child development studies, from paralegal studies to industrial manufacturing or theatre arts.

College of the Canyons has recently received funds to improve existing programs and expand into new areas. It will soon add more classrooms, labs and facilities at its new Canyon Country campus. It will also upgrade its technology at the existing Valencia Campus in Santa Clarita, California, and expand instruction in public safety and a variety of other high-demand professions.

History

The College of the Canyon was created in 1967, and it officially opened in temporary quarters in the local high school in 1969. In 1970, the college purchases 153 acres in Santa Clarita along the Interstate 5. Since that time, College of the Canyons has expanded from a small community college holding its classes in modular buildings, to one of the nation's fastest-growing community colleges. The college is currently undergoing the highest rate of construction on its campus since its first buildings were erected in the early 1970s.

Academics 

The academic calendar for College of the Canyons follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer semesters. There is a winter "intersession" between the fall and spring semesters. There are several short sessions offered within the 10-week summer semester.

Colleges and Schools 

The academic units at College of the Canyons are divided into academic departments, rather than into colleges and schools. The academic departments are comprehensive, covering traditional disciplines and high-demand career areas such as fire technology, nursing or administration of justice.

Student Life

College of the Canyons has many student clubs and organizations available for participation on campus. Students that don't find a club that covers their interests among the nearly 100 existing clubs or organizations may establish their own club. 

Student services at College of the Canyons include: 

• Admissions, Records, and Online Services
• Adult Reentry
• Assessment Center
• Associated Student Government
• Campus Safety
• Career Center
• Continuing Education
• Cooperative Work Experience Education
• Counseling
• Disabled Students Program and Services
• Extended Opportunities Program and Services
• Financial Aid
• International Students Program
• Matriculation
• Service Learning Program
• Student Business Office / Cashier
• Student Development
• Student Health Center
• Transfer Center
• Veterans Affairs

Traditions 

The traditional school colors for College of the Canyons are yellow, black and white. The school mascot is the cougar, and the athletic teams are nicknamed the Canyons "Cougars."

Athletics

In addition to the option of studying sports medicine and strength and conditioning, the College of the Canyon "Cougars" athletes compete in several intercollegiate sports, including: 

Men's Sports:

• Baseball
• Basketball
• Cross County
• Football
• Golf
• Soccer
• Swimming and Diving
• Track and Field
• Volleyball

Women's Sports:

• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Golf
• Soccer
• Softball
• Swimming and Diving
• Track and Field
• Volleyball

Satellite Campuses 

In addition to its main Valencia Campus in Santa Clarita, College of the Canyons has a satellite Canyon Country campus, also in Santa Clarita.

Community Life

College of the Canyons offers many non-credit classes for the community. Current offerings include a series of classes on the issues of aging, a Federal and State Tax class, classes for English learners, and traffic school online. 

College of the Canyons offers a variety of resources to the community, including many events that serve locals. The college staff participates in workshops, forums and information sessions that provide valuable assistance. Community members are encouraged to visit the College of the Canyons events calendar for a list of events and resources.

Single Mothers Outreach through College of the Canyons empowers single parents and their children by providing support and resources to help families become self-sustaining.