The Role of Community Colleges in Higher Education

Over the years, it seems that community colleges have garnered a reputation as being the last refuge for the hopeless, the undereducated, or the "poor." It may surprise you, but this could not be further from the truth. Community colleges have a very definite role in higher education, and it is one that you should think long and hard about using, before dismissing all your available options.

Part of the role of community colleges in higher education is to help prepare high school students to go to an institution of higher learning. Local high schools tend to use a community (or junior) college for advanced placement (A.P.) courses. Taking advantage of advanced placement courses can help high school students get ready for the increased pressures and work loads associated with college life in more than one way. One such way that community colleges can help high school students is by getting some of the prerequisites for higher classes out of the way early, while still getting credit for attending high school. There is also the added benefit of the high school student getting used to the new social nuances and interactions that come along with being in college.

Community colleges also have benefits for those who are no longer currently enrolled in high school. If you have not been in school for long time, and need some help to be able to get back in to the swing of studying, then a community college is the place for you. Community colleges tend to have classes that are lower key and less stress inducing than a regular college. Community college can also be used as a source for getting some "practice" while getting some college education at the same time.

Often many people think that a community college is not worth their time since they usually only offer degrees up to the Associates level. Now, this may not seem like much, but it can be enough to help you out in your work life (employers love to see continuing education). Also, since the cost is usually lower than any other school program, and the hours more flexible, community colleges can also be a great benefit to the working adult. The next time you are looking over college information or considering going to school, be sure that you have truly looked over all the options.