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Parents of Potential Student

Research shows that education pays. Students who complete associate degrees and certificates are more likely to move into higher-status management and professional positions with higher earnings. An investment of a few thousand dollars now will likely pay lifelong dividends, as students who earn associate degrees average lifetime earnings of $250,000 more than people without degrees.

A community college may be the door to opportunity for your son or daughter. Community colleges are centers of educational opportunity - an American invention that put publicly funded higher education at close-to-home facilities, beginning nearly 100 years ago. They are inclusive institutions that welcome all who desire to learn, regardless of wealth, heritage or previous academic experience.

More than half of all first-time college freshman attend community colleges. The colleges' accessibility is facilitated by open admissions policies and low tuitions. Consequently, community college enrollments reflect the rich diversity of the nation, and campuses are populated with people of all ages, ethnic and cultural heritages and socioeconomic backgrounds.

The community college is an excellent place to for your son or daughter to start his or her post-secondary education. He or she may choose to earn an associate degree or a certificate at a community college then enter the workplace or go on to a bachelor's degree by transferring to a four-year institution. 

Reasons for choosing to attend a community college are as varied as the individuals. Low tuition, convenient locations, open admissions and comprehensive course offerings are highly persuasive factors in students' personal calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:    If my son intends to transfer to a four-year college for a baccalaureate degree, how much money will he save by completing the first two years at a community college? 

A:    If he attends public institutions, the national average says you will save $3,406 over four years. Use the table below to calculate your savings based on the types of institutions he plans to attend.

Q:    Will all of my daughter's community college credits transfer?

A:    Many community colleges have articulation agreements with nearby four-year institutions, meaning if your daughter works closely with her guidance counselor on her academic plan, her credits should transfer to the four-year college and she should experience a seamless transition. Studies show that students who transfer from community colleges do as well, if not better, than students who begin their academic career at four-year colleges. Contact your local community college to inquire about articulation agreements.

Q:    Which fields offer my daughter the best prospects in terms of getting a job upon graduation and earning a decent salary?

A:    A 1997 survey indicates the top five hot programs at community colleges by starting salary and job placement are: dental hygiene ($31,750); manufacturing process technology ($30,675); telecommunications/interactive information specialists ($29,268); physical therapy assistant ($28,782); and registered nursing ($28,777).

Q:    What financial aid is available to my son? 

A:    Contact your local community college financial aid office. They will assist you in identifying all types of aid available to him depending on his financial situation.

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