Clackamas Community College

Based on median earnings of $42,886 ten years after entry and a median debt of $11,992, the return on investment is moderate. Further research into specific program outcomes and local job market demand is recommended.

The reported graduation rate at Clackamas Community College is 22.6%.

In-state tuition is $6,345 and out-of-state is $14,265. Median earnings 10 years after entry are $42,886, with median debt at graduation of $11,992. The value is moderate, especially for out-of-state students.

Clackamas Community College has a student body size of 4,963 students.

With an affordability score of 90 and in-state tuition of $6,345, Clackamas Community College appears to be a highly affordable option for Oregon residents.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) operates with an open-door admissions policy, meaning it is generally accessible to all high school graduates or GED recipients, as well as individuals 18 years or older who can benefit from instruction. Specific acceptance rate data is not publicly published because the college aims to provide educational opportunities to a broad range of students. The primary requirement is to complete the online application and submit any necessary placement testing or previous college transcripts. For students seeking direct entry into specific programs, particularly those with limited enrollment like nursing or certain allied health fields, there may be additional prerequisite courses or GPA requirements. However, for general admission to the college, the process is designed to be straightforward and inclusive. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the CCC admissions website or contact the admissions office for the most current and detailed information regarding application deadlines and any program-specific entry criteria. The focus is on providing access rather than selective admission.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) offers a strong return on investment, especially for Oregon residents. The in-state tuition is $6,345 per year, leading to an estimated two-year cost of around $12,690 (excluding living expenses and books). With a median 10-year earning potential of $42,886 reported for its graduates, and a median debt of $11,992, the financial picture is quite positive. This means that graduates could potentially pay off their average debt within the first year of employment, assuming a portion of their income is dedicated to loan repayment. The ROI score of 69 further supports its value. CCC excels at providing foundational education for transfer to four-year universities or offering career-specific training that leads to well-paying jobs in the regional economy. For students seeking an affordable pathway to higher education or a direct route to employment without substantial debt, CCC is a financially sound choice. It's a hidden gem for value in the Portland metropolitan area.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) offers a range of programs that align well with regional employment needs. Strong areas often include Allied Health programs, such as Registered Nursing (RN) and Dental Hygiene, which prepare students for in-demand careers in Oregon's growing healthcare sector. Graduates from these programs are well-positioned for employment at major regional healthcare providers like Providence Health & Services or Legacy Health. The Business and Management department offers pathways in areas like Accounting and Marketing, equipping students for roles in Portland's diverse business landscape. For those interested in technology and trades, CCC provides programs in areas like Computer Science (often as a transfer pathway) and various skilled trades (e.g., Welding, Automotive Technology), which are crucial for industries like manufacturing and construction in the Pacific Northwest. Students considering CCC should research programs that lead to high-demand jobs in the Portland metro area or provide a solid foundation for transfer to a four-year university to pursue further specialization.

Student life at Clackamas Community College (CCC) is centered around providing a supportive and engaging environment for a diverse student body, many of whom are balancing education with work and family responsibilities. As a community college, the focus is primarily academic and career-oriented, rather than on a traditional residential campus experience. CCC offers various student clubs and organizations catering to academic interests, cultural backgrounds, and hobbies, providing opportunities for connection and involvement. The campus features student services like a library, tutoring centers, and a student union, which serve as hubs for academic support and informal interaction. While there are no on-campus dormitories, the college is located in Oregon City, offering students access to the amenities and social scene of the greater Portland metropolitan area. Events, workshops, and student government activities contribute to campus engagement. The student population is diverse, including recent high school graduates, returning adults, and international students, fostering a rich learning environment.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) is committed to making education accessible through various financial aid options. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. Aid primarily comes from federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant and Oregon Opportunity Grant, which do not require repayment. The college also administers institutional scholarships funded by community donations and grants, often based on academic merit, program of study, or financial need. Federal student loans are available, though CCC encourages students to prioritize grants and scholarships first due to the low median debt associated with the college. To access aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). CCC's financial aid office provides personalized counseling to help students navigate the application process, understand their aid packages, and explore options like work-study programs. Specific data indicates that a high percentage of students rely on financial aid to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses, underscoring its importance for affordability.

The salary expectations after graduating from Clackamas Community College (CCC) vary significantly depending on the program of study and whether graduates enter the workforce directly or transfer to a four-year institution. The reported median earnings 10 years after starting at CCC are $42,886. Graduates from high-demand fields like nursing or dental hygiene can expect starting salaries in the $60,000-$70,000 range within the Portland metro area, with potential for growth. Those completing associate degrees in business or technology fields might start in roles earning $40,000-$55,000, depending on the specific position and company. Skilled trades graduates, such as welders or automotive technicians, can also command competitive wages, often starting in the $45,000-$60,000 range, with opportunities for advancement. It's crucial to note that the median earnings reflect a 10-year outlook, encompassing both immediate job placements and those who pursued further education. For the most accurate salary expectations, prospective students should research specific program outcomes and regional job market data for their intended career path.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) does not offer on-campus housing or dormitory facilities. As a commuter college, its students typically live in surrounding communities, including Oregon City, Gladstone, Milwaukie, and the broader Portland metropolitan area. This model is common for community colleges, allowing them to maintain lower tuition costs by not investing in residential infrastructure. Students seeking housing will need to arrange their own accommodations independently. Resources are available through the college's student services or housing office to potentially guide students on finding off-campus apartments or shared housing options in the vicinity. The lack of dorms means that student life and social interactions often occur during class times, on campus for specific events, or off-campus in the local community and the nearby city of Portland.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) is primarily focused on providing accessible career training and foundational education for transfer, rather than extensive undergraduate research opportunities. As a community college, its mission emphasizes teaching and workforce development over large-scale research initiatives typically found at universities. While faculty members may engage in their own professional development or scholarly activities, formal undergraduate research programs or dedicated research facilities for students are not a central feature of the CCC experience. Students interested in research are generally encouraged to complete their associate degree and then transfer to a four-year university where robust research opportunities, labs, and faculty mentorship in research settings are available. CCC's strength lies in preparing students academically for these future research endeavors at higher education institutions.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) is comparable to other public community colleges in the Portland metropolitan area and the broader Oregon Community College System. Its closest peers include Portland Community College (PCC), Mt. Hood Community College, and Chemeketa Community College. Compared to PCC, CCC is significantly smaller, which can offer a more intimate learning environment and potentially more personalized attention, whereas PCC's larger size provides a wider array of programs and services. Mt. Hood Community College shares a similar community college mission and serves a comparable geographic region. CCC's main advantage over these peers often lies in its specific program strengths and its location, offering a slightly different access point to the Portland job market. Its graduation rate (22.6%) is a point of comparison; while typical for many community colleges, some may achieve slightly higher completion rates. CCC's in-state tuition is competitive within this group, making it a strong contender for affordability.

Employers in the Portland metropolitan area generally view graduates from Clackamas Community College (CCC) favorably, particularly those who have completed specific career and technical education programs or have successfully transferred to four-year institutions. CCC has a reputation for producing well-prepared individuals for entry-level positions in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades. Employers value the practical skills and foundational knowledge gained through CCC's programs. For graduates transferring to universities, their coursework at CCC is typically well-regarded by receiving institutions, allowing for seamless credit transfer. The college's focus on workforce development means that many programs are designed in consultation with local industry leaders, ensuring graduates possess relevant and in-demand skills. While CCC may not have the same brand recognition as a large university, its graduates are recognized for their readiness to contribute to the local economy, making them valuable hires for regional businesses.