These 10 Houston Community Colleges Prove Higher Education Doesn’t Equal High Costs
- Houston Community College – Central Campus
- Alvin Community College
- Lone Star College-Houston North Victory
- San Jacinto College: Central Campus
- College of the Mainland
- Galveston College
- Lee College
- Brazosport College
- Wharton County Junior College
- Lone Star College-CyFair
- Houston Community College - Coleman College for Health Sciences
- Northwest College
When I first visited a community college in Houston, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had just finished high school and didn’t know what my next steps should be. My family couldn’t afford a four-year university, and I wasn’t ready for that kind of commitment yet.
Community college gave me the chance to explore my interests, gain confidence, and eventually transfer to a university. As I wrote this, I realized these schools continue to help so many people, just like they helped me!
In this article, I’ll highlight some of the best community colleges in Houston, each offering its own unique strengths, resources, and opportunities.
1. Houston Community College – Central Campus
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Website: https://www.hccs.edu/locations/central-college/
Address: 1300 Holman St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: +1 713-718-2000
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 6 PM; Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Houston Community College’s Central Campus is a great option for students who want an affordable, quality education in the heart of Houston. Nestled in the arts district, it’s an important part of the city’s culture and academics!
The campus has a wide range of programs to help students meet their educational goals. Students can earn Associate’s degrees to transfer to four-year universities, or they can take Career and Technology programs to start a job right after graduation.
Popular programs in the school include Fine Arts, Fashion Design, and continuing education in areas like Healthcare, IT, and Business.
The campus has great facilities for students to learn and be creative! The theater and culinary buildings are some of the best, offering hands-on learning in modern spaces. Recent updates to the campus, like a new garden and better parking, have made it even more student-friendly!
Pro Tips:
- Use the affordable tuition and small class sizes as a stepping stone to a four-year university.
- Meet with helpful advisors for guidance on graduation or course selection.
2. Alvin Community College
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Website: https://www.alvincollege.edu/
Address: 3110 Mustang Rd, Alvin, TX
Contact Details: +1 281-756-3500
If you’re looking for a great community college near Houston, Alvin Community College (ACC) is a good option. Located in Brazoria County, the school offers affordable tuition, a variety of educational opportunities, and a supportive environment for students.
The college is spread across a 114-acre campus with 16 buildings for academics, research, and student activities. It offers programs in workforce training, technical fields, adult education, and personal development.
Students can also earn degrees or certificates in fields like Nursing, Arts, and Technology. High school students can also take part in dual-credit programs to earn both a high school diploma and an Associate degree.
The school also makes sure that students have access to resources to help with their academic and personal success, such as tutoring labs, wellness programs, and even a coffee bar!
Pro Tip:
Be sure to visit the admissions office early to plan your academic journey and explore options like the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) to convert work or military experience into college credit.
3. Lone Star College-Houston North Victory
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Website: https://www.lonestar.edu/HoustonNorth
Address: 4141 Victory Dr, Houston, TX
Contact Details: +1 281-260-3500
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 6 PM;
- Friday to Saturday – 9 AM to 2 PM;
- Sunday – Closed
If you’re looking for a community college that cares about its students and community, Lone Star College-Houston North Victory is a great choice! It’s part of the well-known Lone Star College system and offers both quality education and strong community support.
This college has over 200 programs, including fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, nursing, and teaching. If you’re interested in creative subjects like 3D animation, they have that too!
Most classes are only 8 weeks long, so you can earn credits quickly. First-time college students get extra help from mentors, and cohort programs let you study with other students who are on the same path.
If you have work or family responsibilities, LSC-Houston North makes it easier to learn! You can choose from morning, afternoon, evening, or weekend classes. They also offer childcare and counseling services to help you.
Pro Tips:
- Make the most of the support services available! Access their childcare, counseling, and other non-academic resources.
- Make connections by engaging with the community through service opportunities and events!
4. San Jacinto College: Central Campus
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Website: https://www.sanjac.edu/
Address: 8060 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX
Contact Details: +1 281-476-1501
San Jacinto College is a well-known name in Houston for higher education. Since 1961, it has helped thousands of students from the Greater Houston area by offering great education and modern facilities.
The college has five campuses, with the Central Campus in Pasadena being the largest, serving over 15,000 students.
The college offers many programs to fit different interests and goals. Students can earn degrees or certificates in areas like Arts, Humanities, and Design, with subjects such as Music, Theater, Film, and Audio Engineering.
The campus has facilities that help students both academically and socially. The library offers a great space to study, and the Student Success Center offers support to help students with their academic goals through free tutoring services.
Pro Tip:
- Plan your visit! Check out maps and directions to navigate the campus easily.
- Participate in recreational sports or use the student-run salon for a true campus experience!
5. College of the Mainland
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Website: http://www.com.edu/
Address: 1200 N Amburn Rd, Texas City, TX
Contact Details: +1 409-938-1211
Are you looking for a great place to start or grow your career in Houston? College of the Mainland (COM), located in Texas City, is a great choice for academics, technical training, and more!
COM offers many programs, including Nursing, Engineering, Culinary Arts, and Robotics Process Automation. Students who complete their technical degree programs at the school earn an average starting salary of over $70,000.
It’s also recognized across the country for ranking fifth in degrees in science technologies. Their Fire Science Technology program is one of the best courses in the state, especially for career opportunities and earning potential!
For students who need more flexibility, the school offers the 8-week Advantage program. It has shorter sessions, so students can balance school and life more easily. It’s perfect for busy people or those returning to school!
Pro Tip:
Take a tour to experience the campus atmosphere and even meet faculty and school advisors!
6. Galveston College
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Website: https://www.gc.edu/
Address: 4015 Avenue Q, Galveston, TX
Contact Details: +1 409-944-4242
Galveston College, located in Galveston, Texas, is more than just a college—it’s a place full of opportunities. Whether you live nearby or are looking at schools in the Houston area, it’s worth considering!
The college offers more than 50 programs for students. You can study Health, Science, Business, Art, or even learn a trade like Welding or Culinary Arts. They also offer bachelor’s degrees in Healthcare Management and Nursing, which prepare students for jobs that are in high demand.
The school also has a Counseling and Advising Department to help students plan their classes, explore career options, and offer personal support if needed. They also provide free help with resumes, job searches, and tutoring, so you’ll be ready for a job or your next big step.
One thing that makes the college special is its close connection with the local community. They work together to create programs that match the needs of the job market, helping students find good jobs!
Pro Tips:
- Use their Career Coach tool to align their programs with job opportunities and personal interests!
- Planning to switch jobs or aiming for a promotion? Check out their continuing education courses for skill-building or career shifts.
7. Lee College
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Website: https://www.lee.edu/
Address: 200 Lee Dr, Baytown, TX
Contact Details: +1 281-427-5611
When it comes to community colleges in the Houston area, Lee College stands out for its commitment to education, workforce development, and community engagement.
Located in Baytown, Texas, with additional facilities in Liberty, this college serves a diverse population of over 220,000 people.
The college offers more than 100 associate degree and certificate programs, focusing on preparing students for further education or immediate entry into high-demand fields like Welding, Machining, and Process Technology.
They also provide non-credit workforce training and community education, including GED and ESL classes.
Students can participate in sports, cultural events, or join one of many campus clubs. For those balancing work and studies, the college offers extensive support, including financial aid, advising, and career services.
Pro Tips:
- Veterans can communicate with the Veterans Center for benefit certifications.
- Consider taking one of the certificate programs in technical fields for a quicker route to employment!
8. Brazosport College
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Website: https://www.brazosport.edu/
Address: 500 College Blvd, Lake Jackson, TX
Contact Details: +1 979-230-3000
If you’re looking for a great community college near Houston, Brazosport College in Lake Jackson, Texas, is an excellent choice. Since 1968, it has helped students achieve their goals with career programs, transfer degrees, and community classes.
The school offers modern facilities and programs designed to prepare students for today’s jobs. You can earn four-year degrees in fields like Industrial Management or Health Services, or Nursing.
There’s more to college life than just classes, and this college offers plenty of activities to enjoy! You can join intramural sports, participate in leadership events, or give back through community service projects.
The college also offers fun Community Education programs. You can take classes to prepare for tests, learn job skills, or explore arts and crafts. For career-focused students, the Center for Business & Industry Training offers practical courses to help you become job-ready.
Pro Tip:
Busy with life? Try their online learning option! Brazosport’s Virtual Campus offers flexible online courses with support.
9. Wharton County Junior College
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Website: https://www.wcjc.edu/
Address: 911 E Boling Hwy, Wharton, TX
Contact Details: +1 979-532-4560
Wharton County Junior College (WCJC) is an affordable, flexible, and supportive place to start your college education.
WCJC is a two-year public college with campuses in Wharton, Sugar Land, Richmond, and Bay City, as well as classes in El Campo. The college offers a wide range of programs for all kinds of students.
If you’re interested in a career in Healthcare, Business, or skilled trades, this school has programs that fit! Popular options include Nursing, Criminal Justice, Business Administration, and Welding Technology.
If you’re planning to transfer to a four-year university, the college offers programs in Psychology, Biology, and Education. For hands-on careers, you can earn certificates in Cosmetology, Air Conditioning Technology, and Radiologic Technology.
Pro Tips:
- Meet with an academic advisor to plan your courses and stay on track!
- Join the Summer Bridge program! It’s a great way for new grads to prepare for college.
10. Lone Star College-CyFair
Website: https://www.lonestar.edu/cyfair
Address: 9191 Barker Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX
Contact Details: +1 281-290-3200
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 7 PM; Saturday – 9 AM to 2 PM; Sunday – Closed
Are you looking for an affordable, high-quality education in Houston? Lone Star College-CyFair might be the perfect place for you! As part of the city’s largest college system, it serves over 80,000 students each semester.
The college offers a wide range of programs for those interested in earning a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree or seeking job-focused training. Their popular programs include Nursing, Engineering, and Business.
They also offer strong academic advising to help students plan their education and career paths! Advisors create personalized plans and provide support, while counselors assist with academic needs and accommodations.
The campus offers opportunities to explore arts, music, and wellness programs. It also features modern facilities like simulation labs and engineering design spaces to make learning even better!
Pro Tips:
- Programs in fields like Cybersecurity or Engineering are great for job opportunities in Houston!
- The academic counseling can help you plan your classes and save money!
11. Houston Community College – Coleman College for Health Sciences
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Website: https://www.hccs.edu/locations/coleman-college/
Address: 1900 Pressler St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: +1 713-718-7400
Houston Community College – Coleman College for Health Sciences is a top choice for students who want to work in healthcare. It’s part of the Houston Community College System and is located in the heart of Houston, near the Texas Medical Center.
Since it opened in 2004, the college has offered many programs in health fields like Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Radiography, and Pharmacy Technician. Students get hands-on training in modern facilities, helping them prepare for real healthcare jobs.
One big advantage of the college and its location is its connection to the Texas Medical Center. With over 43 member institutions and more than 65,000 healthcare professionals, the TMC is a leader in research and patient care!
Students gain valuable experience by working with healthcare professionals, taking part in the latest research, and participating in internships that improve their skills!
The college also offers ongoing education and licensing programs for current healthcare workers, helping them stay up-to-date in their field.
Pro Tips:
- Research the specific health science programs you’re interested in to ensure the right fit for your career goals.
- Consider the affordable tuition and financial aid options available!
12. Northwest College
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Website: https://www.hccs.edu/locations/northwest-college/
Address: 2811 Hayes Rd, Houston, TX
Contact Details: +1 713-718-2339
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 10 PM;
- Saturday – 10 AM to 4 PM;
- Sunday – Closed
Northwest College is a great choice for students in Houston who want quality education and a wide variety of programs! It’s part of the Houston Community College District and serves the Alief, Katy, and Spring Branch areas, as well as other parts of Houston.
The Spring Branch Campus is home to the Media, Visual & Performing Arts Center of Excellence. This center offers programs in Audio Recording Technology, Dance, Drama, Filmmaking, Music, and Studio Art.
At this location, students have access to state-of-the-art music and dance studios, theaters, audio recording technology, and rehearsal rooms.
The Alief Hayes Campus is home to the Engineering Center of Excellence. Through a partnership with the University of Texas at Tyler, students can earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering while saving on tuition costs. This campus is also a hub for visual and media arts programs!
Pro Tips:
- If you’re a student, be prepared for some cold libraries, so bring a jacket!
- The new campus buildings are well-designed and offer an excellent learning environment, so make sure to explore them.
