2-Year Path
Overview
Two-year colleges offer programs that lead to an associate degree or certificate in a specified field. Course paths include:
liberal arts/transfer curriculum: covers many of the general education requirements for a baccalaureate degree
occupational/technical programs: develop technical skills for the workforce; for students new to the workforce or those looking to advance in their field
developmental education: helps students improve their basic academic skills and prepare for other college courses
non-degree seeking: courses created to respond to individuals’ and communities’ social, intellectual, and recreational interests
Highlights
Save money: whether you intend to transfer after two years to pursue a baccalaureate degree or not, community college will help you save money on tuition (and potentially more costs like room and board, travel, and food).
Oregon Promise Grant: This state grant covers some or all tuition at any Oregon community college for recent high school graduates and GED recipients. Check OregonStudentAid.gov for application deadlines.
Career Pathways: Provides visual road maps of career-technical certificate programs at all Oregon Community Colleges.
Oregon Transfer Degree: These degrees are designed for students who want to complete their first two years at a community college, with flexibility to then transfer to any institution within the Oregon University System (OUS). Talk to individual schools for more information.
Overview: AAOT Degree Requirements
Schedule Flexibility: Most community colleges offer courses online, at night, or on weekends
Application Tips
Each community college has individual scholarship programs. Don't overlook these opportunities!
Create the same type of application plan that you would for 4-year colleges
If a student plans to transfer to a 4-year university after graduating, they should meet with a community college advisor and ensure that courses meet the transfer requirements. Not meeting requirements is a major obstacle students face when trying to transfer.
Apply for dual enrollment to take some classes at the community college and some at the affiliated university.