Best Community Colleges in Massachusetts of 2024

Cape Cod Community College (4Cs) offers over 40 academic programs for students seeking an accelerated degree option. With terms lasting just seven weeks, students can complete degrees faster than in similar programs. Classes are offered either online, in-person, or in a "Hyflex model" where students can attend in person or via Zoom live. In addition, 4Cs offers options for adult education, high school equivalency, and advanced degree programs to serve their community further. Similarly, the Project Forward program provides vocational training for students with intellectual disabilities. Students in this program receive hands-on training in programs like Agriculture and Facilities, Childcare, Hospitality, and Culinary Arts, to name a few. With so many programs specifically designed to meet the community's needs at every level, 4Cs has a program for everyone.

Middlesex Community College (MCC) offers a comprehensive curriculum with a keen eye set on the future. Students are prepared for future career challenges by taking well-designed classes taught by expert faculty. For those unsure of their direction, MCC provides career counseling to help students design the best path for them. Regardless of career goals, students can earn a certificate or associate degree or transfer to a four-year university to make their dreams a reality. Students can also learn the necessary training to enter the workforce directly after graduation or advance in their current careers.

Bristol Community College (BCC) is known for its wide variety of program options. Students can choose from over 130 degrees, certificates, or work-related training programs to achieve their career goals. Popular degree programs include Culinary and Hospitality, Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics, Dental Hygiene, and Nursing, among others. BCC offers many opportunities for students to engage with their surrounding community outside of the classroom, including a robust athletics program and a student newspaper. In addition, students can hone their leadership skills by participating in the Community College Leadership Association or the student senate, both great options to sharpen any resume.

Students attending Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) benefit from a robust selection of degrees and academic programs taught in various formats. For ultimate flexibility, students can choose between class sessions conducted in a traditional 16-week format, mini-sessions taught in as few as seven weeks or self-directed learning at the student's own pace. These options make attending BHCC an excellent choice for students balancing their education with other responsibilities, like a full-time job. Each program is complete with attentive instructors and professional tutors, regardless of the format.

Holyoke Community College (HCC) provides a welcoming and supportive education to a diverse student body. Students can register for various degree programs, certificates, or continuing education options to prepare for a new career or advance in their current job. In addition, HCC strives to support its students beyond the classroom with on-site childcare, themed weekly events, athletic teams, and various clubs and organizations. With a strong alum network featuring many recognized members of the local community, graduates can feel confident that they are joining a notable organization by pursuing their educational goals at HCC.

Greenfield Community College (GCC) is a reputable institution known for its caring and supportive faculty that effectively promotes student excellence. Students benefit from an innovative curriculum focusing on inclusion, integrity, and creativity. Degree programs and certificate options are expansive, with over 70 different pathways to help students meet their career goals. Popular programs include Digital Marketing, Early Childhood Education, Health Science, Web Development and Design, and Nursing, to name a few. In addition, GCC provides support outside the classroom with comprehensive support services, such as career counseling, tutoring, and special development courses. Students can also participate in internships and service-learning opportunities to round out their educational experience at GCC.

North Shore Community College (NSCC) provides a safe and accessible education with a focus on diversity and inclusion. Students can choose a career pathway from over 70 options for degrees and certificates, including education, engineering, nursing, criminal justice, and computer science opportunities. Each program is designed to give students the skills they need to excel in their future careers. In addition, opportunities for internships and service learning help students apply their critical thinking and vocational skills to the needs of their local community and often serve as a natural bridge between earning a degree and entering the workforce. NSCC also offers programs for adult education and high school equivalency courses.

Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) offers over 120 academic programs and certificate options for online learning. All programs are oriented around current industry needs, making each degree plan relevant to the country's high-paying, in-demand jobs. While the expansive options for online learning can't be ignored, QCC also provides state-of-the-art labs and learning facilities for in-person or hybrid learning. Students have access to the QuEST (Quinsigamond Engineering, Science, and Technology) Center featuring a high-tech lab, classroom space, and a Fab Lab maker space community. In addition, QCC's Healthcare and Workforce Development Center provides simulation experiences for healthcare programs and customized training for various industries.

Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) provides an affordable, high-quality education where many students are on a first-name basis with faculty and administration. While the community is tight-knit, MWCC offers a roster of programs just as robust as a traditional university. Earning an associate degree can help students start a career directly after graduation or enable them to transfer to a four-year university to complete degree requirements. In addition, students looking to build a skill set for a new job or a promotion will benefit from MWCC's selection of certificate options. Many students pursue both opportunities by obtaining a certificate first and a degree right after, therefore "laddering" their skills to make them more competitive after graduation. With options for 7-week terms year-round, students can enroll throughout the year and begin coursework relatively quickly.