• Community colleges cost significantly less (particularly for state residents) than state or private colleges and universities. 

• This means that they can be a cost-effective way to complete the first two years of college. 

• The money you save by living at home and going to your local community college can help pay for your last two years at a four-year college or university.  

• Maybe you'd like to begin by aiming for a two-year associate's degree and assess as you go whether you want to pursue a bachelor's degree. 

• Taking classes toward an AA degree, for example, would give you a feel for the type of education you'd get at a liberal arts college.  

• Many people enter college without a clear idea of what they want to focus on. 

• At a community college, you can explore different subject areas before committing to a program, without having to be so concerned about finances. 

• To assist with the career decision-making process, many community colleges offer intensive guidance counseling that can help you assess your abilities, interests, and educational options.  

• Community colleges are open to everyone. 

• If you want to pursue college-level coursework but aren't academically ready, community colleges offer classes and one-on-one tutoring to help you strengthen your basic skills. 

• Keep in mind that the average class size at most community colleges is significantly smaller than at public four-year universities.  

Programs like these are often not available at four-year institutions. If you're thinking of seeking employment after finishing up at community college, there are several routes you can take. 

• You can earn an Associate's degree—A.A. or A.S. These degrees take about two years to complete. 

• However, if you want to take courses in a specialized area of study but don't want to spend the time necessary to earn an Associate's degree, many community colleges have certificate options that provide intensive training in a specialized field like computer-assisted drafting, food service technology, or paralegal studies. 

  • These certificates usually take six months to a year to complete. 

• At community colleges, the student population tends to be highly diverse with regard to age, experience, family background, socioeconomic level, and employment status. 

• Course schedules are developed with attention to the variable needs of both part-time and full-time students, so classes are usually offered throughout the day and evening, and sometimes on weekends.

• Many of these colleges offer online courses.