Community College: The Right Decision

Would you like to get a quick start to career path? Need to cut the cost of a four year college degree? Do you need to attend classes at night or on weekends? Would you like to hone your study skills before enrolling in a four year school? Want to attend college close to home? If you’ve answered yes to even one of these questions you may want to consider enrolling at a community college.

Most community colleges have several different educational options including many occupational degrees and certificate programs. Some popular programs with two year and certificate options are medical assisting, nursing, paralegal, information technology, business and teaching. Getting occupational training is a way for people to get into a new higher paying career quickly. Many Community Colleges offer inexpensive certificate and two year occupational degrees.

If you are looking to get a four year degree but don’t have the money to pay for four years of college, earning an Associate’s Degree from a junior college then transferring to a four year university may be a great way to save money. Not only is the tuition for most community colleges much less expensive than most 4 year universities, but given that there are many community colleges, you will likely be able to attend one without having to move away from your family or job. Community colleges often offer evening, night and weekend courses, making is possible to work a standard work week while getting your education.

If your grades in high school were less than stellar, junior or community colleges give you a chance to re-focus on education and build a track record of academic achievement before moving on to a four year school. Also, by taking classes at junior college you will have more of an opportunity to discover what career will be the most appealing to you to pursue. Additionally, some universities give preference to students that attained their Associates degree. For instance, both the California State University and the prestigious University of California systems both give preference to students that attended California Community Colleges. For this reason, it might make sense to go to a community college not only to polish your academic record, but if you are able establish yourself as a serious student, you may find many more university doors open to you after attending.

If you do decide to attend a community college you are not alone. Approximately 45% of first year college students will decide to enroll at a community college. With the many learning options and flexible class schedules, in addition to the much less costly cost of enrollment, it’s easy to understand why many new students new to the university system decide to attend community colleges. Even if money is not the issue, the ability to try different classes and the opportunity to polish your academic record before moving on to a four year university make considering a junior college a smart idea.