Engineering at Community Colleges in California

Hey! I'm a junior interested in engineering, but I might want to kick things off at a community college. Do any of California's community colleges have a reputation for a strong engineering program?

Absolutely, California boasts a number of community colleges with robust engineering programs. A couple to consider include:

1. Pasadena City College (PCC): PCC consistently ranks among the top community colleges in California, and their engineering department is no exception. They offer several engineering disciplines, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering. Many students from PCC transfer to prestigious four-year programs in the state.

2. Foothill College: Foothill offers a solid engineering program, with a particular focus on preparing students to transfer to four-year universities. What's especially great is their association with The University of California Berkeley and The University of California Los Angeles, which allows for a smoother transition.

3. De Anza College: Known for its excellent science and technology programs, De Anza College is considered to have a tough but rewarding engineering program. They have an Engineering Pathways Program that maps coursework for potential subjects like mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, and more.

All these colleges have articulation agreements with the UC and Cal State systems, meaning a smoother process when it comes to transferring credits.

One thing to keep in mind is although attending community college can save money and offer an opportunity to beef up your academic record, it is critical to plan carefully and work closely with advisors to ensure all prerequisite courses are taken, and they align with the transfer institution's requirements.

Lastly, remember to also consider extracurricular opportunities related to engineering, such as clubs and internships, since practical experience can be just as important as classroom learning in this field. In conclusion, in California, community colleges can absolutely provide a strong start to an engineering career!