Colorado’s largest system of higher education
About CCCS

To a Better Life, Successful Careers, and the Pursuit of Happiness
We are the largest higher education system in Colorado. We offer low to no-cost education and training that connects to careers for everyone.
The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) has 13 unique colleges and more than 35 locations across the state. We educate 124,000 students every year.
Our mission is to create a learning environment that is accessible and responsive. Here, students can achieve their educational, professional, and personal goals. We embrace academic excellence, diversity, and innovation.
We focus on the whole student. We form lasting relationships. We create education opportunities without barriers. We always look for ways to expand opportunities for our students.
Our Story
Cultivating a Community of Learning since 1925
We have been committed to providing accessible and affordable education since our inception in 1925. Today, CCCS includes 13 colleges and more than 35 locations, serving over 124,000 students annually.
We’re Building a Stronger Economy
The economic impact of the CCCS is $5.8 billion annually, which is roughly equal to the creation of 98,100 jobs.
Students receive an average annual rate of return of 14.8% per year, after adjusting for inflation, from their investments in their education at one of our 13 colleges.
For every $1.00 a student invests at our colleges, they receive $4.30 more in lifetime earnings. State and local governments receive a rate of return on their investment in CCCS of 13.5% per year after adjusting for inflation.


Our History
Going back to 1925, Colorado’s community colleges have played a vital role throughout much of the state’s history.

System Chancellor
Chancellor Joe Garcia leads the state’s largest system of higher education. 39% of undergraduate students in Colorado attend CCCS colleges.

CCCS Board
CCCS is governed by an 11-member board — nine of whom are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate.
Get to know CCCS
Be an Advocate for Community Education
Your advocacy helps us provide accessible, high-quality education to over 115,000 students each year. By promoting our mission, you contribute to creating opportunities and transforming lives across Colorado.

Latest News
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State Board Names Diane Duffy as Interim Chancellor for CCCS
Higher education leader to guide CCCS through leadership transition following Chancellor Garcia’s retirement Today, the State Board for Community Colleges […]
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CCCS Honors Sen. Rollie Heath’s Legacy of Educational Leadership
In middle school, Sen. Rollie Heath developed a deep respect for skilled trades when he watched a tractor roll off […]
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Trinidad State College, Pueblo Community College, and Emergent Campus Secure $5.75M Grant to Boost Advanced Manufacturing Career Pathways
Trinidad State College, Pueblo Community College, and Emergent Campus receive $5.75 million grant to strengthen career pathways in advanced manufacturing. […]