January 2010

 Community College
Invest in the Best – You

If you've been considering your options for higher education, attending a community college might be the answer. Even if college hasn't been on your mind, now might be the time to reconsider. A degree is one of the best things you can invest in. It can help build a more promising future for you, as well as give you a feeling of accomplishment. If you graduate with an associate's degree, you can expect your lifetime earnings to be about one-third higher than those of someone with only a high school diploma.*

Here are a few facts about community colleges across the United States:*
  • 11.5 million students are currently enrolled in community colleges.
  • 41% of those students are enrolled full time, 59% are enrolled part time.
  • The average annual tuition at a community college is $2,402, compared to $6,585
    for a four-year institution.
  • 47% of community college students receive financial aid.

A New Focus
Community college is a great way to fast-track your goals of obtaining a degree and finding your dream job. Whether you want to earn an associate's degree or accumulate credits that you can transfer to a four-year school, a community college may be right for you. Additional funding for community colleges is right around the corner. President Obama has big plans for implementing a $12 billion community-college initiative. The plan is meant to raise graduation rates, improve existing community colleges, and help the colleges implement new technology.

Just as with other colleges, community colleges across the U.S. differ in cost, size, course offerings, support services, faculty, and campus life. You need to research your options to find the right fit for you. Also, be aware that in addition to tuition, there may be fees and other costs involved at some schools. Be sure you learn the total cost to make an apples-to-apples comparison.

Financial aid, grants, and federal student loans are widely available. And combined with the generally lower tuition at community colleges, it means the education you seek can fit comfortably into your budget.

* Source: American Association of Community Colleges.

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