Best Community Colleges in Arizona

College enrollment continues to grow in the United States. The National Center for Education Statistics projects that the number of undergraduate students will increase from 16.8 million to 17.2 million between 2017 and 2028. By earning a postsecondary degree, you gain access to better job opportunities and higher pay. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), those with an associate degree earn $7,000 more in average annual salary than individuals with only a high school diploma. They also benefit from substantially lower unemployment rates.

While higher education institutions offer accessible academic programs for students of all backgrounds, the plethora of options can prove overwhelming as you look for the right school for you. This guide supports your search by offering a list of the best community colleges in Arizona. The 20 ranked profiles below offer insight on elements like admission requirements, financial aid, and student resources. You will also learn about available academic degrees, occupational certificates, and online learning opportunities.

Both universities and community colleges enable students to earn accredited certificates and degrees. However, the latter offer more flexibility for their students who often hold full-time jobs and take care of families while enrolled in classes. To support these practical needs, community colleges typically feature open admission policies and low tuition prices. These schools also emphasize career placement, offering certificate training in technical and trade-oriented professions. Alternatively, many learners use community colleges as a starting point for their higher education, earning associate credentials before transferring into a bachelor’s-completion program.

On top of affordable tuition and diverse academic programming, you will enjoy great employment prospects by attending a community college in Arizona. As of July 2019, the Grand Canyon State’s unemployment rate sits at 4.9%, a decrease from previous months. The BLS reports occupational growth for many industries in Arizona, with the highest increases in construction, manufacturing, and health services. Arizona’s low cost of living offers another incentive. PayScale statistics show that even in metropolitan areas like Phoenix, living costs are 5% cheaper than the national average.