Community colleges are public institutions that traditionally have provided undergraduate pathways for students to pursue. Both certificate programs and degrees can be conferred by community colleges to help students achieve their academic goals. Pennsylvania community colleges provide both undergraduate degrees (such as AFA, AA, AAS, and AA) along with certificate programs. An education from a community college can be used to upskill in a current job, enter the workforce in a trade, or be a segue to additional degree opportunities at a 4-year university. In all cases, the community colleges in PA offer academic programs for everyone.

2024 Best Community Colleges in Pennsylvania

The Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a two-year community college that offers both certificate and associate degrees to its graduates. Originally established to serve indigent students, the technical college now provides educational opportunities to both tuition-paying and economically disadvantaged individuals. Financial aid is available in the form of direct loans and Pell grants. Remedial assistance, academic and career counseling, and employment and placement assistance are provided as well. Located in a small-city setting, Thaddeus Stevens College offers such two-year programs as:

  • Architectural technology
  • Cabinetmaking
  • Automotive technology
  • Electronic engineering
  • HVAC/refrigeration
  • Masonry construction
  • Collision repair technology
  • Electrical technology
  • Plumbing technology
  • CAD (Computer aided drafting)
  • Business administration
  • Computer systems administration
  • Mechanical engineering
  • Graphic communications and printing
Nine-month certificate programs are offered for individuals who want to gain endorsement in masonry construction or general machine operations. Currently the tuition rate is set around $15,500 annually. You can obtain further information by contacting admissions at 800-842-3832 or visiting the college’s website.  To attend the technical college, students must present their high school transcripts, including their high school GPA.

Enrollment

1,233

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Butler County Community College, located in Butler, Pennsylvania, has been providing low cost educational alternatives to the Butler community for over 40 years. BC3 provides students with a comfortable educational atmosphere, and offers a variety of pr0ograms and services in order to ensure that it fulfills the needs of the community to the fullest. The course offerings at BC3 are not limited to college age students. Adult education courses, continuing education courses and free classes for senior citizens mean that there is something for everyone at BC3.

Academics

Butler County Community College offers a large number of programs for students to choose from. Some programs are designed to provide career oriented education and prepare students for work immediately after graduation, while others are designed to prepare a student for transfer into a four year institution. Associate degrees and certificates are offered through these programs.

Programs available include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in enrolling at BC3 should complete and submit, via mail or online, their application along with the noted application fee. Once completed students will be asked to take a placement test, meet with an advisor and register for classes. Once completed, student must pay all tuition fees and purchase course materials, such as books, and attend the new student orientation.

Financial aid is available to eligible students through a variety of programs. Students interested in financial aid must register for a mybc3 email address, and if they qualify for financial aid will receive a debit card through which financial aid will be available. For more information on receiving financial aid students should visit the financial aid office on campus or view the information available on the school's website.

Enrollment

3,305

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Community College of Beaver County (CCBC) is home to over 45, 000 students helping shape the economic growth meanwhile expanding educational opportunities for everyone. CCBC guarantees student success by providing accessible and diverse educational programs, enhancing economic growth through partnering with organizations, businesses, governmental agencies and educational institutions and developing a culture that embraces professional development and innovation. The community college is located in the heart of Beaver County in Monaca, Pennsylvania. With the Main Campus and 2 more campuses spread over Pennsylvania, CCBC offers the best skills and workforce development that lead to better careers in the job market. CCBC offers degree, transfer programs, non-credit and credit programs, certificate courses, skill training and even dual enrollment for high school students looking to gain more skills to prepare them for the job market. Community College of Beaver County also guarantees professional development and enriching of different people by offering GED courses for people who didn’t graduate from high school. CCBC offers the number one recognized Air Traffic Control Program at the Aviation Sciences Center in the nation. With support from 3 flight providers, CCBC has especially thrived in this niche with students graduating each year to become professionals. CCBC provides a success oriented platform for all students by offering various academic services such as disability support, free tutoring, career planning, developmental learning lab, ESL support, library reference and counseling. In simple words, CCBC is the best choice for higher education for people looking to transfer to colleges/university or penetrate the general job market.

Enrollment

2,254

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Montgomery County Community College was founded in 1964 with a mission to meet the learning needs and requirements of Montgomery County. Today, the college has graduated over 30,000 alumni and has opened its doors to numerous residents looking to further their education. MCCC has achieved set objectives through various E-learning options, 2 campuses and various offsite learning centers to accommodate all the students and their learning requirements. The MCCC educational curriculum comprises of associate degrees, certificate programs, online degrees, continuing education programs and workforce development programs covering over 59 areas of study.

Montgomery County Community College provides a seamless transition for students to private and public universities and colleges throughout the locality. This is facilitated through various negotiations and agreements made by MCCC and various university/college administrators to grant every student a chance at better education. MCCC boasts of being an institution that yields opportunity for all students with a desire to learn and better their future. The community college facilitates its core mission and objectives through a set of moral values that should be observed by both the students and the teachers.

All the learning opportunities present at Montgomery County Community College breach through all the education barriers thereby creating an advanced learning platform for everyone. Today, MCCC offers almost 85 associate degrees and certificates to all students covering all the available areas of study. MCCC is proud to be the core of educational empowerment of Montgomery County and each day continues to provide residents and potential students with a chance to become better.

Enrollment

10,451

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Northwest Arkansas Community College, located in Bentonville, Arkansas, was established in 1989, replacing the need for the branch campus established by North Arkansas Community College through property tax increases that allowed for the building of the new school. During its first few years of operation the school lacked the funding for a permanent location and many classes were held throughout the city in a variety of buildings, causing the school to be known as the “College without walls.” Today the school serves a large service area and provides a modern quality education to its students through updated facilities and perpetually reviewed programs and services.

Academics

Northwest Arkansas Community College offers a large number of programs and allows students to benefit from the one that best suits their academic or career goals. Upon completing a program, usually taking between one and two years, students will be awarded a certificate or associate degree. Academic programs provide the opportunity to complete the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education, followed by transfer to a four year institution to continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree. Individuals may apply for transfer to any school they wish, though the requirements for transfer will vary from one school to another. Students seeking transfer should seek assistance from an academic advisor to develop a curriculum that will best assist in admission to one's school or schools of choice.

Career programs provide the necessary training and skills for an individual to enter the workforce as a qualified professional. Students will take program specific courses that are usually divided between practical application and classroom courses based on the program of study. The resulting degree or certificate demonstrates competency in one's field of study and allows for the pursuit and procurement of employment at the entry level in their chosen field. Such programs generally reflect the needs of the community, and as such individuals pursuing such a course of study will find job opportunities more easily due to community demands.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

As a public two year open enrollment institution, Northwest Arkansas Community College will admit any student who meets the minimum requirements for admission. Interested students must submit an application for admission to enroll and supply transcripts from previous schools, test scores, and take a placement exam prior to registration. It is recommended that students participate in orientation and to meet with a counselor to outline goals, program enrollment, and curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which will be used to determine need, aid program eligibility, and monetary awards. Students may be asked provide additional financial information in order to verify the FAFSA's accuracy. Aid must be applied for prior to the start of each academic year.

Enrollment

7,979

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

About
Northampton Community College, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1967 and was originally known as Northampton County Area Community College. The school also maintains a second campus in Pocono Township as well as multiple satellite locations in Hawley, Bartonsville, and Mount Pocono. The school serves over 11,000 students annually, yer maintains a relatively low student to teacher ratio allowing for more direct attention and assistance from instructors. The school was establishment through the encouragement of local businesses and community leaders who desired workforce training opportunities and local post-secondary education options to be available for residents.

Academics
Northampton Community College offers a variety of programs and services in order to meet the needs of the residents of its service area. Academic transfer offer a curriculum that mirrors the first two years of a four year program, after which students may apply to a four year college or university in order to continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree. Transfer to four year institutions in Pennsylvania are facilitated through agreements in place that ease requirements for admission, though individuals wishing to transfer to private or out of state schools should meet with a counselor to discuss transfer and curriculum options due to varying requirements.

Career training programs offer students an education in a high demand field or industry with the purpose of assisting them with entry into the workforce as qualified professionals. Students will participate in traditional and practical courses as  defined by the program curriculum, with practical courses providing training and development in a controlled environment under the supervision of professionals. These programs take between one and two years to complete, and give the student an associate degree or certificate which demonstrates competency upon graduation.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Individuals interested in attending Northampton Community College may do so if they are a high school graduate or at least eighteen years of age.Completion of the application for admission and payment of associated fees is required for enrollment. Students are also asked to supply transcripts and test scores if available, and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration. Participation in new student orientation and a meeting with a counselor to discuss program enrollment and curriculum prior to the selection of courses is also encouraged.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information provided by which will be used by the school's financial aid department to determine the extent of a given student's need and their aid program eligibility when constructing his or her financial aid packet. Aid must be applied for prior to each academic year and it is recommended that the application be completed in a timely fashion.

Enrollment

9,769

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Bucks County Community College, located in Newtown, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1964 in order to provide the county with a much needed post-secondary educational option. The school went through a series of approvals, with final approval given by the State Board of Education, after which a 15 member board of trustees was appointed to manage and develop to school. BCCC is a public, two year institution that provides a variety of services and programs to residents of the area. The school is dedicated to providing its current and future students the best opportunities possible, and as a result maintains a high standard for its programs and facilities, which are reviewed and updated regularly to meet the needs of modern individuals.

Academics

Bucks County Community College offers a large variety of programs that allow for career development or academic transfer. Students may choose the program that best assist in the realization of their goals. Career programs provide training and education in a specific field, allowing the student to develop the skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as a qualified professional. These programs typically mix classroom theory and education with practical education, allowing students to utilize and perfect methods and techniques used within their field. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or associate degree which demonstrates competency to employers when seeking entry level employment.

Academic transfer is accomplished by enrolling a program that covers the first two years of a four year education, followed by applying to a college or university to continue their education and complete the final two years of their bachelor's degree. Students will have an easier time transferring to public schools in Pennsylvania through preexisting transfer agreements, though it is possible to transfer credits to our of state or private institutions. Students should meet with an academic advisor to discuss transfer requirements and develop a curriculum that best meets the needs of the desired school or schools.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

As an open enrollment institution, any individual wishing to enroll at Bucks County Community College may do so by meeting the minimum admissions requirements, submitting a completed application, and paying all fees. Students should also supply transcripts and standardized test scores, which may be used to determine course level for general education in lieu of a placement exam. Students should also participate in new student orientation and meet with a counselor to discuss curriculum and program enrollment.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Aid is awarded based on need and program eligibility which is determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which must be submitted prior to each academic year and is the primary source of information regarding a student's financial situation. Students may be chosen at random to supply additional information to be compared to their FAFSA in order to verify its accuracy. This is due to new federal regulations governing the disbursement of aid.

Athletics

Bucks County Community College Centurions participate in intercollegiate athletics through the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA), which provides the rules and forums for healthy competition among various two year institutions throughout the country. Intercollegiate athletics also provide useful habits and skills, such as good health, leadership, teamwork and discipline, which may be applied to one's personal, academic and professional life. Students interested in participating will have to maintain a minimum GPA and balance their course load with practice and events. Information regarding tryouts and participation may be obtained through the athletic department.

Athletic programs:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Volleyball
  • Equestrian
  • Tennis

Enrollment

7,761

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Located in Berks County near Reading Pennsylvania, Reading Area Community College provides higher learning that leads to either a two-year associate’s degree or a certificate. In some of the certificate curriculums, students are permitted to work online or learn a new occupational skill in as little as six weeks’ time. By obtaining degree or certificate training at the college, students can embark on the following careers:

  • Accountant
  • Chef (culinary arts)
  • Legal secretary
  • Medical transcriptionist
  • Website developer
  • Computer specialist (computer technology)
  • Accountant
  • Nurse
  • Communications specialist
  • Medical lab technician
  • Teacher’s Aide (early childhood education)
A transfer center at the college enables students to meet specific college requisites so they can eventually transfer to a four-year university. The college also sponsors career fairs as well as on-campus recruiting and career counseling. Students interested in obtaining employment have resources available to them that help them prepare resumes and develop their interview skills. Scholarships are available for eligible candidates at the school, one of which includes the American Sign Language scholarship. The yearly tuition rate for out-of-state students is just over $9,600 while in-state students spend about $7,000 per year. Approximately 5,000 students are currently enrolled at the two-year college.

Enrollment

4,199

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Moreno Valley College, located in Moreno Valley, California, established in 2010 to provide additional support in the Riverside Community College District. The school is also a member of the California Community Colleges System, which operates and funds 112 two year institutions throughout the state, of which the school is the 11th. The school was given accreditation in 2010 and meets the standards of a two year college established by the state. The school is joined by Riverside City College and Norco College in forming the Riverside Community College District.

Academics

Students attending Moreno Valley College will be able to choose from programs that allow for academic transfer or career training offered by the institution. Academic transfer is accomplished through the completion of a curriculum that matched the first two years of a four year education, followed by applying to four year institutions to continue that education and eventually earn a degree. Students applying to California institutions will find transfer agreements in place that ease or guarantee admission to public institutions in the UC or CSU systems. Application to out of state or private schools will require varying admissions standards to be met and should be discussed with a counselor.

Career training programs focus on high demand fields that allow students to enter the workforce upon completion to pursue long term employment. Individuals will receive a mixture of traditional and practical education, with practical courses providing a safe controlled environment for the development of skills and abilities necessary to perform duties in a given field. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree upon completion.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Moreno Valley College is an open enrollment institution that allows any individual to enroll if he or she meets the minimum criteria for enrollment, completes an application, and pays associated fees. Students should be at least eighteen years of age or have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they should provide transcripts and test scores if available. Additionally, participation in orientation and meeting with a counselor is encouraged in order to become familiar with the campus and to discuss program enrollment and personal goals. Students may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration in order to determine the starting level of general education courses the student must take.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Aid is awarded based on need which is determined through the information a student provides on their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will then be used by the financial aid department to determine aid program eligibility and awards when constructing a financial aid packet. Scholarships may also be pursued from private, non-school sources through application, and may be awarded for a variety of reasons. Aid must be applied for prior to each semester and should be submitted in a timely fashion to ensure that aid is received when needed.

Enrollment

10,074

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

Delaware County Community College (DCCC) has been serving the Delaware and Chester counties of Pennsylvania since 1967. More than 28,000 students enroll each year looking for transfer programs, career certificate programs, or non credit courses. The goal of the school is to provide an education that suits the students' needs, going so far as customizing programs for individual students.

Academics

DCCC offer a variety of program choices, state of the art facilities, and a focus on students to ensure that the education imparted is of the highest quality. Whether a student plans to transfer to a four year institution, or jump into a career, DCCC makes sure that the student is prepared for what lays ahead.

Some programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

As DCCC has an open enrollment policy, all students with a high school diploma or GED are eligible to enroll. Interested students should apply online. Financial aid is also available, students seeking financial aid should complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and consult with the financial aid office in regards to financial aid awards.

Enrollment

11,314

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

About Westmoreland County Community College, located in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, serves the county of Westmoreland and beyond. Commonly known as WCCC or 3Cs, the school was founded in 1970. The school has grown, experiencing a benchmark in 2009 when it has 7000 students enrolled.

WCCC campus has expanded grown as have the offerings for residents which include the addition of continuing education and adult education courses. The school is dedicated to providing a quality education to its students by constantly reviewing and updating its programs and facilities, ensuring they meet current needs.
Academics WCCC offers a wide variety of academic transfer and vocational programs that result in either associate degrees or certificates. Vocational programs are designed to prepare students for work immediately after the completion of the program, providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties professionally in the field of their choosing.

Such programs take between one and two years to complete and produce qualified individuals who meet workforce needs. Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education at a lower financial cost, followed by applying to transfer to a four year institution to finish their bachelor's degree. Students should meet with an academic advisor to plan out one's curriculum to meet the requirements for their desired school or schools of transfer.
Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid Students wishing to attend Westmoreland Community College must complete and submit the application for admission, along with all relevant transcripts and the processing fee. Once completed the applicant must complete the placement exams after which they may register for classes.  Some programs, specifically in the allied health category, may require additional steps in the application process.
Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Students interested in financial aid should complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) along with submitting the all relevant tax forms and information to the school's financial aid department prior to the listed deadline for each semester or year. Once the information is received the school will determine need, eligibility and awards. Scholarships may also be available through external sources, requiring a separate application and offered for a variety of reasons.

Enrollment

4,848

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Ever since it was founded in the year 1967, Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) has become a renowned institution in the heart of Luzerne County in Pennsylvania. By promoting low tuition, open admissions and educational support, LCCC strives to provide every student with a chance to pursue higher degrees in different fields. With the main campus being 167 acres in total, LCCC promotes excellence in education through the 11 satellite campuses located all over the Northern Pennsylvania region. Today, Luzerne County Community College boasts of its prominence being the largest college in Northern Pennsylvania. The community college caters to most of the educational needs of the residents of the Northern Pennsylvania and each new day the college expands to accommodate new and fresh talent from all over the county.

LCCC is simply a stepping stone for students looking to continue with their education. By offering 2 year programs, LCCC provides numerous academic, career and technical training programs giving every student a chance to study at higher levels. Even better, the school has negotiated agreements with different degree institution making the transition from community college to university faster and more efficient for all students. Some of the top programs offered at LCCC include the following:

  • General Studies
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Criminal Justice
  • Business Management Technology
  • Business Administration
  • Computer Information Systems

LCCC also offers numerous credit free programs thus being the largest supplier of such programs in Northern Pennsylvania. For more information, click Luzerne County Community College and become part of the LCCC community.

Enrollment

4,984

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) is comprised of several college campuses and learning centers that are located throughout the Pittsburgh area of Pennsylvania. CCAC offers more than 170 programs in career certificates and vocational training, associate degrees, and a range of college transfer studies. The four CCAC college campuses and six learning centers in different communities offer flexible scheduling and many online courses.

The college transfer programs at CCAC are very successful, with thousands of CCAC students transferring each year to the college of their choice. Many of the career training programs at CCAC can be completed in six months or less, including the fast-growing "green" jobs. Academic programs cover everything from nursing to social sciences and information technology.

CCAC has developed its workforce training division into a top-notch, sales-oriented enterprise that works with the regions employers and economic development officials. The Center for Professional Development is now a trainer of choice in southwestern Pennsylvania for:

  • Corporate & Agency Training
  • Professional Continuing Education
  • Public Safety
  • Federal, State, County and Local Agency Training

History

CCAC was founded in 1966 with an initial enrollment of just over 1,500 students. In 1966 there were two campuses - the campus on Pittsburgh's North Side and a suburban campus at Boyce Campus in Monroeville.  South Campus was established in 1967, and moved its present complex in West Mifflin in 1973.  North Campus was established in 1972 and moved to its permanent location in McCandless in 1990.

Six centers were created as satellite learning centers for the four main campuses beginning in 2001.

Academics

The academic calendar for CCAC follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer semesters. Online classes are also available, which may allow for some non-traditional enrollment periods throughout the year.

Colleges and Schools

The academic units for CCAC are organized into departments, divisions and centers.

Student Life

CCAC offers its students more than 100 clubs and organizations to become involved in beyond the classroom. Additional opportunities for involvement on campus include several honor societies, intramural sports, cultural events, student government, and four different student-run newspapers: the Allegheny View, Boyce Collegian, North Voice and South Forum.

There are many student services available on CCAC campuses, including career planning, counseling and support services. Career fairs and job events are hosted throughout the year, and childcare centers allow students with children to attend classes throughout the school year.

Traditions

The traditional school colors for CCAC are red and white. The school mascot is a cougar, and the athletic teams are nicknamed the Allegheny "Cougars."

Athletics

The Allegheny Campus of the Community College of Allegheny County has four collegiate sports teams. These teams include men's and women's basketball, bowling, golf and cross country. Allegheny students seeking more information about any of these teams should contact the Athletic Office at: (412) 237-2503.

The other campuses in the community college district have other sports available. Students should contact the campus of their choice for more information.

Satellite Campuses

The Community College of Allegheny County has four campuses and six centers in the Pittsburgh area.

  • Allegheny Campus
  • Boyce Campus
  • North Campus
  • South Campus 

Additionally, CCAC currently has six centers located throughout Allegheny and Washington Counties.

  • Bethel Park Center
  • Braddock Hills Center
  • Downtown Center
  • Homewood-Brushton Center
  • Washington County Center
  • West Hills Center

Community Life

CCAC offers community education programs through non-credit, fee-based classes. Classes and programs include workforce training and personal enrichment courses in a range of areas including foreign languages, fitness and health, business, computer technology, cooking, music and dance. Community classes are available to adults and children.

The Green Institute at CCAC is run as a community initiative with a goal of operating as a partner and trainer of choice to businesses in the area who have joined the "green" movement. Programs in the CCAC Green Institute focus on five environmentally-friendly areas: consumer education, credit programs leading to green jobs, practical training, a speakers' bureau, and kid's programs.

More than 90% of CCAC graduates choose to live and work in the local region. Additionally, the affordability and accessibility of CCAC has enabled more than 40% of its students to attend college.

Enrollment

16,086

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Lehigh Carbon Community College, located in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1966 where it was originally known as Lehigh Country Community College. The school first offered its courses through the former Lehigh County Courthouse, though it moved in 1972 as more m0odern facilities were constructed, allowing for larger enrollment and the ability to offer more programs. The school changed its name to the current in 1994 to bolster enrollment numbers from nearby Carbon County. The school serves as the primary associate degree granting institution for the Allentown area, as well as Carbon and Lehigh counties. In addition the primary campus, the school operates several centers throughout the area to provide more learning opportunities for residents as well as increase the ways in which the school may assist the community. The school serves over 7000 part time and full time students annually.

Academics

Lehigh Carbon Community College offers programs that result in either certificates or associate degrees. These programs provide career and technical training or academic transfer opportunities. Students will decide what time of program they wish to pursue prior to registration. Career and technical programs provide schools with the skills and experience necessary to perform tasks and duties required at the entry level in their field of study. Graduates of such programs will be prepared to enter the workforce immediately, having earned their degree or certificate which demonstrates competence. Academic programs allow students to fulfill the first two years of a four year education, and then transfer to a four year institution to complete the remaining two years and receive a bachelor's degree. Noncredit courses are also available allowing adults to simply take courses that suit their interests, or to take courses that may fill an absence in their earlier education.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Lehigh Carbon Community College is an open enrollment institution requiring a minimal set of standards in order to accept students. If students meet these standards, they may apply to the school, submitting with the application all pertinent transcripts and standardized test scores. Once received, students may be asked to take a placement exam and participate in student orientation. Students will then register for classes, having chosen a program of study prior to the start of the semester.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, scholarships, and work study programs available at the federal and state level. Students in need of financial aid must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which in turn will provide LCCC with student aid report that will be used to determine the student's financial needs, aid eligibility, and awards. Students may be asked to provide additional financial information as deemed necessary by the financial aid office. External scholarships may also be available from third parties. Such scholarships generally require a separate application and are awarded for reasons other than need, such as merit or ethnicity.

Clubs and Organizations

Student are encouraged to join the many organizations and clubs that call Lehigh Carbon Community College. These clubs allow students to explore their interests with like-minded individuals in a friendly atmosphere provided by the facilities available at the Student Union. Students will find such clubs and organizations allow for the development of bonds between individuals that often last long after the students have moved on, as interests tend to run deeper than just similar coursework. The school provides amenities and a meeting area for clubs to meet with a frequency determined by the individual club or organization.

Clubs and organizations at LCCC include:

  • Campus Christian Fellowship
  • Horticulture Club
  • Global Unity
  • Paralegal Club
  • PRYDE

Enrollment

7,109

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Located in a big city setting, the Community College of Philadelphia features degree and certificate programs in more than 70 areas. The Mid-Atlantic college is an affordable option for anyone who wants to gain admission to a four-year degree program in the future. Transfer degrees are featured in such subjects as:

  • Business
  • Interior Design
  • The Social Sciences
  • Psychology.

The college also provides career-oriented training that leads to a certificate for jobs in:

  • Medical Assisting
  • Addiction Studies
  • Paralegal Work
  • Business
  • Teacher Education

If you maintain a certain GPA, you can work towards the school’s program for dual admission. By taking part in this program, can enroll in a curriculum that can be collaborated with such well-known 4-year schools as:

  • Temple University
  • LaSalle University
  • Drexel University
  • St. Joseph’s
  • Rosemont College

Regardless of a student’s goals or preferences, the college provides counseling so individual options can be explored. The college, which has a 55% retention rate, offers such services as financial aid, tutoring, and provisions for students with disabilities. Approximate annual tuition is around $8,500 for in-state students and about $11,500 for students attending from out of state. Currently, enrollment stands at around 17,000 students overall. No athletic or sports activities are offered at the school.

Enrollment

16,672

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) is one of six community colleges in Central Pennsylvania's Community College District. The other campuses in the district include locations in Gettysburg, Lancaster, Lebanon and York. The HACC also has a Virtual Campus for online or distance learning. The Virtual campus offers more than 150 online courses in a range of subjects, and also offers student support services for online students. Students can also choose to follow an academic program through a blend of online, on-campus and hybrid courses.

HACC has expanded to include developing technology and trade programs to add to its roster of 16 programs. Through its combined locations and programs, HACC offers nearly 200 associate degrees, certificates and diplomas.

HACC also offers non-credit programs for personal enrichment and lifelong learning. Included in this curriculum are public safety training for volunteers and professionals, as well as workforce development for business, industry, healthcare, and human services.

All the college locations in the HACC offer excellent facilities with modern equipment, and high-quality programs and services.

History

Harrisburg Area Community College was founded in 1964 at the Harrisburg Academy site as the first community college in Pennsylvania. Its first class had 426 students enrolled. In 1965, Hershey Junior College in Pennsylvania closed and that school's faculty and students joined the HACC. In 1966, HACC broke ground at a new campus location in Wildwood Park.

In 1967, the HACC became the first community college in Pennsylvania to be accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. That same year, the college moved to its new campus with the completion of three of its major buildings.

Over the years, HACC added many more buildings to its campus and eventually expanded further with additional campuses. HACC has become one of the largest undergraduate colleges in Pennsylvania.

In 1987, HACC began offering courses through its Distance Learning program. In 1999, the Distance Learning program added online courses. In 2002, the online programs became part of the HACC Virtual Campus.

Academics

HACC offers a variety of academic calendars for flexible scheduling options to meet the needs of all students. The academic calendar for HACC generally follows a semester format, with fall and spring terms, and several shorter summer sessions.

Colleges and Schools

The academic units for Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) are organized into divisions, as follows:

  • Business, Hospitality, and Tourism Division
  • Communications, Humanities, and the Arts Division
  • Health Careers Division
  • Mathematics and Science Division
  • Social Sciences Division
  • Technology Division

Student Life

There are many opportunities for student involvement beyond the classroom, and the HACC offices of Student Life and Student Affairs provide information about student clubs, organizations and campus activities. Activities vary from campus to campus, so students are advised to consult the Student Life office at their specific campus for a list of activities.

Student clubs and organizations offer chances for meeting other students and developing social and leadership skills. There are also groups that focus on specialized interests and common goals, whether they are academic, cultural, social, political or other.

Some of the recent or upcoming activities at HACC include a "Bus Trip to New York City, World AIDS Day, and Stress Relieve Week.

Traditions

The school colors of Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) are maroon and white. The HACC school mascot is the hawk, and the athletic teams are referred to as the "Hawks."

Athletics

A member of the Eastern Pennsylvania Collegiate Conference (EPCC) and the Pennsylvania Collegiate Athletic Association (PCAA), the HACC "Hawks" athletic teams regularly compete in at least five intercollegiate sports, including:

Men's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Tennis
  • Volleyball 

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Tennis
  • Volleyball

Satellite Campuses

In addition to it Virtual Campus and the Harrisburg Campus, HACC has four satellite campus locations in the Central Pennsylvania Community College District, including:

  • Gettysburg
  • Lancaster
  • Lebanon
  • York

Courses are also offered at additional satellite locations in south-central Pennsylvania, including:

  • Midtown 1
  • Midtown 2
  • Penn Center 3
  • Hanover Hospital
  • Campus Square

Community Life

The HACC Foundation is a non-profit educational trust that raises private and corporate funds to support the HACC and its students, facilities and programs, including those that benefit the community.

Enrollment

18,081

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Located in Hayward, Wisconsin, Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwa Community College (LCOOCC) offers 2-year and certificate programs in a variety of disciplines. Associate of Arts degrees are offered in such specialties as early childhood education, Native American studies, and substance abuse counseling.

Students may also work toward acquiring an associate of applied science in casino operations management, medical assisting, or agriculture and national resources management. Other two-year offerings include programs that lead an associate’s degree in food and nutrition, business administration and accounting. Certificate programs highlight such subject areas as medical transcription, renewable energy, carpentry, and day care.

LCOOCC is one of two tribal Wisconsin schools. Enrollment in the college typically averages around 550 students during the school year. While the primary campus is located in Hayward, satellite campuses can be found at Lac du Flambeau, Bayfield, Odanah, and Hertel as well. The school, which was established in 1982, was founded by Chippewa Native Americans to serve the educational needs of the Hayward area and the Lac Courte Oreilles band of the tribe. Approximately 70% of the students attending the college are of Native American descent.

LCOOCC is unique in that it advocates a no-financing policy. Therefore, only scholarships or grants are awarded that do not require payback. The school emphasizes coursework that prepares students for careers soon after they graduate. You can contact the school, which is located at 13466 W. Trepania road, at 888-526-6221.

Enrollment

231

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Why Attend a Community College in Pennsylvania?

With approximately twenty community colleges to research, the Pennsylvania community college system can help you reach further. Schools range from Philadelphia and Allentown to Pittsburgh and Camden. Enrollment at these community colleges is as diverse as the students walking the halls of the school. A handful of small colleges have enrollment that hovers around a thousand students while several are pushing twenty-thousand. Community colleges are known for their value-oriented proposition of quality education in an affordable setting. In addition, they offer students a guaranteed admissions policy for all qualifying students. For millions of students across the country, a community college is a great place to start your academic journey.

Resources to Start School at a Pennsylvania Community College

Find a list of the top ranked community colleges in Pennsylvania below or leveragesearch toolsto quickly get connected to colleges using your own criteria. Start your journey with MatchCollege and make the most of your abilities, skills, and talents with a formal education at a community college. Adopt agrowth mindset, stay focused, and work hard to make your dreams come true.

Metro Area Links for Community Colleges in Pennsylvania

Community Colleges in Philadelphia, Camden, Wilmington

We have ranked the community colleges in the Philadelphia, Camden, and Wilmington area by the percent of students who either completed their degree or transferred to a 4-year institution. Seton Hall University in Carneys Point, NJ ranked as the #1 community college in this area. Visit their official website at http://www.shu.edu/

Seton Hall University Highlights
  • Serving students from Carneys Point and surrounding areas
  • 93% of students either graduated or transferred to a 4-year college/university
  • Tuition & fees are $46,000 per year
Top Community Colleges in Philadelphia, Camden, and Wilmington
Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
93%Seton Hall UniversityCarneys Point, NJ10,000
91%Delaware Valley CollegeMedia, PA2,000
90%Caldwell CollegeMount Laurel, NJ2,000
86%Moore College of Art and DesignBlue Bell, PA-
81%University of Pittsburgh - BradfordPhiladelphia, PA1,000
64%Centenary CollegeBlackwood, NJ2,000
47%College of Southern MarylandNorth East, MD7,000

Community Colleges in Pittsburgh

We have ranked the community colleges in the Pittsburgh area by the percent of students who either completed their degree or transferred to a 4-year institution. Cabrini University in Butler, PA ranked as the #1 community college in this area. Visit their official website at http://www.cabrini.edu

Cabrini University Highlights
  • Serving students from Butler and surrounding areas
  • 98% of students either graduated or transferred to a 4-year college/university
  • Tuition & fees are $34,500 per year
Top Community Colleges in Pittsburgh
Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
98%Cabrini UniversityButler, PA2,000
95%Widener University - Main CampusYoungwood, PA7,000
93%Arcadia UniversityMonaca, PA4,000
74%Allegheny CollegePittsburgh, PA2,000

Other Community Colleges in Pennsylvania

The table below lists all the other community colleges in Pennsylvania that do not belong to any large metropolitan or urban concentrated area. The table also displays the "Rate" column, which is the percent of students completing course work.

Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
94%Haverford CollegeHarrisburg, PA1,000
92%Lycoming CollegeNanticoke, PA1,000

The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

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