Frequently Asked Questions

Why community college?
How do I get in?
How much will it cost?
Is there financial aid?
Can I work and take classes at the same time?
What kind of degree can I get?
What kind of job will it prepare me for?
Are there career counseling services?
What if I want to go to a four-year school later?
How do I find out about a school near me?

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Why community college?
Technology education programs are changing the face of community college, giving you access to a great education and a degree in a high-tech field -- in just two years. Community colleges are local, affordable, and designed to help you succeed.

How do I get in?
Community colleges are designed for everyone, whether you’re completing high school or already have a degree. Your community college staff can help assess your skills and interests before you ever take a class. They’ll help you figure out your strengths and weaknesses, how to balance your schedule and budget, and how to choose a career path that’s right for you. All you need to do is make contact -- then you can take it from there.

How much will it cost?
The average tuition at community college is $1,560 per year -- that’s about $150 a month, depending on whether you’re a part-time or full-time student. Financial aid can help bring the cost down, and personalized payment plans can spread tuition out over time.

Is there financial aid?
Federal grants and other types of financial aid are available. The financial aid officers at your community college can help you determine what grants and loans to apply for. A grant is federal money given to you for tuition. You don’t have to pay it back. Low-interest loans can be paid back in installments after you’ve graduated. Financial aid officers can also help you estimate your future earnings and give you advice on loans and payment programs.

Can I work and take classes at the same time?
Nearly half of all community college students work while they’re going to school. Community colleges offer a wide range of classes, internships, and flexible schedules if you want to work and take classes at the same time. Community colleges also offer short-term certificate programs if you need specific skills, or just want to stay current in your field.

What kind of degree can I get?
This site focuses on two-year technology education programs in community colleges. Students in high-tech fields typically earn an Associate of Applied Science degree, an Associate's degree, or a certificate in their particular field. Look into your local community college offerings for more information.

What kind of job will it prepare me for?
Associate's degree programs not only give you a solid education to carry you through your career; they’re also designed to provide you with the specific skills and training you need to land a job as soon as you graduate. In fact, some high-tech employers prefer community college graduates because they’ve often completed programs and internships that give them direct work experience.

Are there career counseling services?
Your community college can help you figure out your career path by connecting you to local industries and job fairs. Many companies come to community colleges to talk about the careers they offer and to recruit students with two-year degrees. Depending on your degree, professors can often help you find internships while you’re in school.

What if I want to go to a four-year school later?
Many community colleges have agreements with four-year colleges and universities to accept community college credits if you transfer. You can contact the academic or transfer counselor at the community college, and they will tell you what you need to know to transfer to a four-year college or university.

How do I find out about a school near me?
Use the Community College Finder on this site, and just type in your Zip code. You'll get a list of community colleges in your area, indicating which schools offer advanced technological education programs. You can link directly to each school to find out more about what degree programs they offer and how to register.