Why Community College? … For A Student-Focused Environment

What does ‘student-focused’ look like?

Fundamentally different.

Small Class Size

Class sizes at community colleges are much smaller than those in freshman and sophomore years at public universities. Most classes have fewer than 30 students and provide many more opportunities for students to interact with teachers and other students. Faculty members are accessible and dedicated to helping students succeed.

Dedicated Teaching

Community college classes are taught by faculty, not teaching assistants, and faculty time is student-focused. By contrast, University faculty typically spend less than half of their time on teaching activities because they must research or publish in order to get tenure. (Pictured: Maryland Teacher of the Year 2014)

16 : 1  →  Our average Student to Faculty ratio

 

Support Services for Student Success

Student support is one of the ways community colleges stand out among other higher education institutions. Typical services include academic and career advising, counseling, tutorials, health care, financial aid, and library and computer lab services.

Use the links below to explore services commonly offered at Maryland’s community colleges. For specific information on what services your local community college provides, visit our Explore Colleges page.

Academic Support

In addition to academic support obtained directly from faculty, colleges typically offer free general study skill workshops, small group academic subject support, and tutoring for credit students.

Many students will tell you that the support they receive from faculty and staff has been one of the most valuable aspects of attending community college.

More focused support is available for some students in academics, time management, digital skills and disability support. (See below) 

2 + 2 Transfers &
Reverse Transfer Advising

An increasing number of students complete 2 years of a 4-year degree at community college, and then transfer to a 4-year school.

Reverse transfer, starting at a 4-year school and transferring to a community college to obtain an associate degree, is also a smart choice for some students.

Course equivalencies at (USM) University System of Maryland institutions.

Course equivalencies at multiple regional institutions.

Career Advising

Community college career counselors to assist students with selecting career paths for the short and longer term. Career counseling is available for all students whether seeking a degree, transfer or career certification.

Counselors assist students in assessing strengths, evaluating careers, and getting work experience through internships, apprenticeships or part-time employment opportunities. Assistance with resume and interview preparation, as well as managing online profiles is included.

Support for Unique Populations

Parents of Young Children

Quality, affordable child care centers are available on the main campus of every Maryland community college, and at some satellite campuses, as well.

G.P.A.  and  A – B – Cs

Licensed and accredited on-campus childcare can help you focus on your studies. More…

Honor Students

Highly accomplished students often wonder if community college will be challenging and fulfilling. Maryland’s community colleges offer honors programs for accomplished students.

G.P.A.  and  ΦΘΚ  (PTK)

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the academic honor society for two-year colleges. More…

Students Needing More

Community colleges offer more personalized support to students demonstrating both a need and an ability to succeed when provided with appropriate services.

TRiO

Qualified students may receive one-to-one tutoring, advising and scheduling, and More…