If you think of community colleges are last resorts for underperforming students, think again! Community colleges can be affordable places to take classes, expand your horizons, hone your skills, and/or prepare to enter a bachelor’s degree program.

Data does not bear out the stereotype that community colleges are only for slackers. In fact, the data show the exact opposite — more often than not, community college graduates go onto earn their bachelor’s degree, and often graduate degrees, also.

Why are community colleges so popular? Because they are affordable, convenient, and offer quality classes for less money than it costs to take equivalent classes at a four-year university.
Indeed, community colleges have a lot to recommend them:

Convenience: Not only are community colleges close to your home, but they offer classes during days, weekends, and evenings, so you’re sure to find classes that work with your schedule.

Affordability: Smart students have long known that community colleges are a source of inexpensive college credit. Community college credits cost a fraction of what they would cost at a four-year university, and nearly all credits are transferable. Indeed, it is increasingly common for students to attend community college for two years before they transfer to a four-year university — saving thousands of dollars in the process.

Quality: Community college classes are generally taught by dedicated professors and feature small classes. Small classes are a huge advantage, because they make it that much easier to connect with classmates, ask questions of your professor, and get help whenever you need it. In essence, community colleges feature the intimate classes also common among high-priced traditional universities — without the astronomical tuition costs.

Selection: Take a look at the course catalog of the nearest community college and you will find a wide variety of classes in every discipline you can imagine. Taking classes that interest you at community college can help you discover your passions, become a better employee, or get a head start or your bachelor’s degree.