Community colleges have gained a bad rap as colleges who have high drop out rates, thus leading people to believe their education is sub-par. But a recent study have shown that the drop out rate of community colleges as opposed to a four year institution is almost the same (4-year college: 51%, 2-year college: 54%). Attending a community college can be a stepping stone that saves a lot of money in your education, or a chance to get a certification to advance you career.
1.) Texas State Technical College 4 locations (Harlingen, Marshall, Sweetwater, Waco) Tuition: $7992
A large community college, TSTC, offers numerous associates degrees as well vocational programs. With a low professor to student ratio, and the option of several locations, this college is excellent start to your education, or advancement opportunity. Besides academics, it also has extracurricular teams that you can try out for, so you don’t have to miss that part of your college years.
2.) Blinn College Brenham, Texas $5,880
Located in the A&M; area, many students start college here, and move onto A&M; University saving a lot of money for themselves or their families. The college offers an attractive campus, on campus residency options, and excellent education. With an open enrollment policy this is an excellent place to start over on you education if you did not try hard enough in high school.
3.) San Antonio College San Antonio, Texas Tuition: $3,290
If you are looking for a college located in a bigger town, this is the answer. Offering numerous technical/vocational options as well as transfer education options, including teaching education. A low cost option, they offer superior classes, and non-traditional learning methods, such as seminars, speeches from well known figures (such as Dan Rather), and more.
4.) San Jacinto College 3 locations (2-Houston, Pasadena) Tuition: $3,500
With over 23,000 students this community college has one of the highest enrollments in the state. Offering numerous routes of study this like the others can be used as a stepping stone or the boost you need for your career. In the Houston metropolis area each location offers a different location you can choose based on your location of residence. With such a large student base, this is another community college that offers numerous extracurricular activities for you to choose from.
5.) Central Texas College Numerous Options Tuition: $3,500
With its main location located in Killeen, Texas they are one of our smaller location choices, however don’t let that fool you. CTC offers continuing opportunities at various locations throughout the Central Texas area, many times allowing high school students to attend and get a jump start on their education. In addition to these flexible options, they also offer many classes via distance learning (online).
The lesson to be learned is community college can save you a boatload of money, and you can still go on and earn diploma from a more prominent institution. Sometimes the education may not be as good as an accredited 4 year institution, but as long as you do your research fully before enrolling you can benefit from starting your education at a community college or earning a certificate to further your career.
