San Diego has a variety of community colleges to fit whatever your goals are. Whether you’re a student looking to complete 2 years then transfer over to a university, going for your AA, or just popping into a class or two of interest, there’s a place for you. The question is, which one? If you are wondering how many community colleges are in San Diego, we are listing out 8 here that you should know.
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San Diego Community College District
San Diego City College
What type of college is San Diego City College? In one word, we are going to say diverse. That goes for age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, family life. It is a true melting pot of all that makes San Diego unique. It’s a commuter school so transit is easy. Take the bus to campus and then explore the top things to do in Downtown San Diego between classes. In addition to a bus stop on campus, they also have a trolley stop. Word to the wise – bring your pepper spray and stay safe, especially if you have night classes.
📍313 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego Mesa College
In Clairemont Mesa you’ll find Mesa College which has been under construction for the last decade. While it seems like every other semester you get at least one class too close to the noise, it has become a really nice campus. This is also a good pick if you’re trying to stay on campus throughout the day and mimic the traditional college experience. It gives university vibes without the dorm. Their performing arts program is top notch so even if you don’t attend the school, definitely check out the shows!
📍7250 Mesa College Dr, San Diego, CA 92111
San Diego Miramar College
Is San Diego Miramar College a community college? You betcha. If you’re going to Miramar College it’s because you live close by or you’re really into aviation. The Marine Corps Air Station Miramar (MCAS Miramar) takes up most of Miramar so there’s not a lot of exploring going on in the surrounding area. However, if your dreams are up high in the sky, who cares what’s going on below. Their Aviation Operations Program integrates simulator flight training with rigorous academic study, providing a strong foundation for leadership positions within the aviation industry. Get ready for your own Top Gun experience.
📍10440 Black Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA 92126
These three make up the San Diego Community College District. A little unfair to the other community colleges in SD to monopolize that name, but whatever. As they are sister colleges, all of their classes transfer between them. If your prerequisite is only available Friday nights at City college, check out the other two for better options. It’s definitely a perk of the SDCCD system.
Is community college free? Sometimes! The San Diego Community College District’s San Diego Promise offers up to two years of free tuition. Pssst it’s not the only college that does something like this.
Southwestern Community College
Southwestern College is located in Chula Vista. Home to great Mexican food and a massive skatepark. Take your board out between classes and explore the top 10 things to do in Chula Vista. Southwestern also has auxiliary campuses where you can go for a specialty program like dental, nursing, EMT, and so forth. You can find their classes in National City, Otay Mesa, and San Ysidro. Additionally, their Crown Cove Aquatic Center offers classes in canoeing, first aid, kayaking, safe boating, sailing, stand-up paddling, and surfing. We call Southwestern Community College the King of the Trades. The Southwestern College Promise Program permits up to two years (excluding summer terms) of enrollment fees to be waived for eligible college students.
📍900 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91910
MiraCosta Community College District
Oceanside Campus
Ranking number 1 on 2024 Best Community Colleges in San Diego Area by Niche is the Oceanside campus of MiraCosta. This campus is impressive in size and class catalog. It sits on a hilltop site with panoramic views of the ocean and the mountains. The most beautiful campus views hands down, but when you’re looking at the beach how long will it take for you to ditch class and hit the waves?
📍1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside, CA 92056
San Elijo Campus
If you enjoyed being in high school, check out MiraCosta San Elijo for high school part two. This campus is pretty small so you’re bound to get to know people quickly. Also, it’s 4 miles from Moonlight Beach which made our Best beaches in San Diego. Take your lunch break at the beach and have your choice of nachos, hot dogs, bagels, burritos and even ice cream at the on-site snack shop.
📍3333 Manchester Ave, Cardiff, CA 92007
By enrolling in either MiraCosta, you may be eligible for the MiraCosta Promise which offers two years of free college to qualifying students.
Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District
Buddied up to the East is the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District. They also have the Grossmont Cuyamaca Promise with 2 years, tuition free.
Cuyamaca College
We’re voting for Cuyamaca as the most underrated college. It’s not one of the big names, but the campus has a lot going on with school spirit! With under 10,000 enrolled students the student to teacher ratio is on the smaller side. If you’re into that sort of thing. It is also more of a college experience than a commuter school and you’re likely to make friendships with people in the same stage of life.
📍900 Rancho San Diego Pkwy, El Cajon, CA 92019
Grossmont College
Also located in El Cajon, but with a higher student population, is Grossmont College with an unfortunate name but an awesome international program. Make a friend and create your own study abroad program! Grossmont College is close to a number of Best Hikes in San Diego and even keeps their own San Diego Hiking/Conservation Information.
📍8800 Grossmont College Dr, El Cajon, CA 92020
