Community colleges have a lot to offer. Keep reading for a guide to Connecticut community colleges, including special programs, average costs and location!
Connecticut is an amazing state with coastal escapes, engaging cities, and bright fall foliage. It is a great place to attend community college! (Credit: Left/Middle: Instagram @connecticut Right: Instagram @thecoastalconfidence)
CONNECTICUT – All of us are walking down our own educational and professional paths. Some of us want to make our way up the academic totem poll, racking up degrees until we obtain our doctorate. Others might choose to attend a technical college instead to specialize in plumbing, mechanics, or nursing. Many choose to skip college altogether and embrace experiential learning through travel or work opportunities.
Too often, four-year institutions are touted as the only route to success and painted as the ultimate pillars of knowledge. Don’t get me wrong — there are some amazing four-year institutions that offer robust academic support, career services, and thriving student organizations. However, it simply is not true that you must attend a four-year university to be successful or that you must attend one right away.
If you are someone who thrives in a school environment and enjoys taking classes but who isn’t ready to attend a four-year university for personal or financial reasons, community college is a great alternative. Community colleges offer associate degrees, one-year certificates, or career certifications — all at lower rates than traditional universities. Plus, many community colleges offer special programs for veterans or dual enrollment for high school students. In short, anyone can benefit from the programs offered at community colleges.
This article discusses the Connecticut community college system including transfer systems, the enrollment process, and costs. Keep reading to learn more and remember: community college is just as valid a choice as four-year universities, so start browsing and find your dream school!
Applying to Community College
One big advantage to attending community college is the easy application process. Students are able to apply either online or by mail — however, online is the preferred method. The next step is to submit a high school transcript or GED certificate if the student has already graduated. After completing a proof of immunization, college placement tests, and financial aid information, the student is admitted! Compared to the typical application for a four-year university, this allows for flexibility and the opportunity to earn credits or pursue a degree on your own timeline.
As for tuition costs, in-state students pay approximately $5,238 and out-of-state students pay about $15,449. Even though these rates provide a better financial option than most universities, there are still ways to reduce the cost. For example, the PACT program allows Connecticut high school graduates to attend community college for free and have most of the expenses covered. To qualify, students must be first-time college attendants and fill out the FAFSA application. From there, they must attend community college full-time while pursuing a degree, all while remaining in good academic standing. This is an excellent program for students looking for academics while also saving money, allowing them to continue their education or career in the future if they wish!
The Connecticut Transfer System
Connecticut also has a relatively simple process for anyone transferring from a community college to a CT State College or University. These “Transfer Tickets” allow students to complete an associate’s degree from a community college before finishing with a bachelor’s degree from a CT State University or Charter Oak State College. While specific requirements vary by major and program, transfers are guaranteed full junior status and a seamless transfer of their credits!
There is also a special Guaranteed Admissions program for community college students wishing to transfer to the University of Connecticut. They must be enrolled in a Liberal Arts transfer program and working towards their associate’s degree at one of the 12 Connecticut community colleges. After completing this degree with the required classes, grades, and advising sessions, students are guaranteed admission to UCONN’s Liberal Arts and Sciences, Agriculture and Natural Resources, or Business program. This is an excellent, hassle-free option to earn both degrees with the security of not having to worry about tiresome and tedious applications.
Left: Community college is also a great opportunity to meet fellow hard-working students from all over the world! (Credit: Instagram @threeriverscommunitycollege) Right: There are many programs and majors available at Connecticut community colleges, even aerospace manufacturing as pictured (Credit: Instagram @tunxiscc).
Left: Even in current unforeseen times, professors are willing and ready to teach at these community colleges ( Credit: Instagram @capitalcc_ct). Middle: There are many study spaces available where students can get some work done, with updated and plentiful learning resources! (Credit: Instagram @asnuntuck) Right: Many colleges hold transfer fairs, such as this one at Three Rivers CC, to help students explore some of the programs mentioned above (Credit: Instagram @threeriverscommunitycollege).
Connecticut has 12 community colleges across the state. You can visit Connecticut’s State and Community Colleges website to find which college is best for you and start the enrollment process.
Connecticut Community Colleges
- Asnuntuck Community College
- Capital Community College
- Gateway Community College
- Housatonic Community College
- Manchester Community College
- Middlesex Community College
- Naugatuck Valley Community College
- Northwestern CT Community College
- Norwalk Community College
- Quinebaug Valley Community College
- Three Rivers Community College
- Tunxis Community College
Conclusion
Connecticut has many community colleges available for students to attend, whether as a more affordable option or a step to a higher education. A large bonus of community college is the price, as the starting tuition is significantly lower than many universities. With options such as the PACT program, these costs can be further reduced and made accessible for students of all backgrounds. While attending a community college, Connecticut also has many programs available for seamless transfers, whether to another CT State University or the University of Connecticut. Some may think attending a four-year university immediately after high school is the “right” option, but community college has many benefits and is an excellent alternative for many students.
