The Smart Choice for What's Next
At Columbus State Community College, we believe there’s a better way to progress through college and career for students who want more options. Driven by our innovation, values, and position as the region’s front door to higher education, we’re creating a new pathway to education for a good-paying job, lasting career, and meaningful life. Our path is more direct, accelerated, and affordable. And through our partnerships with the region’s major employers, it’s more workforce-relevant. Faster. Smarter. Better.
Explore our associate degree programs and short-term certificates to find the option that’s right for you. Request information or apply now.
The Degree You Need for the Career You Want
Jobs requiring a college degree are projected to grow rapidly over the next decade, especially in healthcare and information technology. In fact, eight out of the ten fastest growing occupations require an associate degree or above.
If you’re seeking an affordable, accelerated path into the workforce, Columbus State is the smart place to start. We offer a wide range of two-year degrees and short-term certificates designed to prepare you for the career you want.
- A two-year Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Technical Studies degree from Columbus State prepares students to enter the workforce as soon as they graduate.
- Our stackable certificates and earn-and-learn programs make it possible to combine work and school. Many students begin with earning an industry-recognized certificate that allows them to get a foot in the door and take advantage of employer tuition support to continue their education.
Columbus State partners closely with regional employers to understand the skills they look for in job candidates, and translates that knowledge into our classes. Employers recruit our graduates as front-line talent in in-demand careers in STEM, business, manufacturing, health care, skilled trades, hospitality, and more. And thanks to our low tuition and financial aid, you could graduate debt-free.
An Affordable Path to Earning Your Bachelor’s Degree
If you plan on attending a four-year college, Columbus State offers a way to earn your bachelor’s degree at a fraction of the cost. With an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree, you can transfer seamlessly to the college of your choice after Columbus State. Our transfer partners report that Columbus State students are well-prepared to succeed academically. And our graduates tell us they feel better prepared than their classmates when they transfer into a four-year program. We are laser focused on personal attention, student support, and success for all students. And with the lowest tuition in the region — approximately $5,000 for a full year — combined with scholarship opportunities and grants, we can help you reach your goals without taking on great debt.
College Built to Fit Your Life
At Columbus State, we meet you where you are. Our average class size is 20 students, which means you get personal attention from faculty and opportunities to engage in collaborative learning with your classmates. Need flexibility as well? Our students often combine in-person and online classes. Since 2017, 80% of our graduates completed one or more online classes on their way to earning a degree. Likewise, our holistic student support services – including tutoring, career services and mentorship, counseling, and help with technology access, food and other essentials – can be accessed in-person and remotely via email, phone or online chat.
What does that mean for you? You get the flexibility and support you need to balance life, work and school without sacrificing academic excellence and a sense of connection.