Phoenix College provides high-quality education with a rich history. Known for its strong nursing and liberal arts programs, it offers a supportive environment for students aiming to transfer to universities or enhance professional skills.
Top Community Colleges in Phoenix Arizona - June 2026
USA / Arizona / Phoenix
Explore the top-rated community colleges in Phoenix, Arizona, offering affordable degree programs and vocational training. Find the best academic institutions to advance your career and achieve your educational goals in 2026.
The oldest community college in the Maricopa County system, offering diverse academic paths.
Details
- Year Founded: 1920
- Employees: 500-1000
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-602-285-7500
- Email: info@phoenixcollege.edu
About the Company
Pros
- Wide range of degree programs
- Historic campus environment
Cons
- Older facilities
- Limited parking space
Focused on healthcare, trades, and technical education to boost workforce readiness.
Details
- Year Founded: 1968
- Employees: 400-800
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-602-286-8000
- Email: admissions@gatewaycc.edu
About the Company
GateWay excels in specialized career training. Its partnerships with local industries provide students with practical experience, making it a top choice for those pursuing degrees in nursing, automotive technology, and environmental science.
Pros
- Strong industry partnerships
- Excellent technical labs
Cons
- Limited student housing
- Rigorous enrollment process
Known for its beautiful campus and innovative teaching methods.
Details
- Year Founded: 1985
- Employees: 300-600
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-602-787-6500
- Email: info@paradisevalley.edu
About the Company
PVCC offers a modern approach to learning. It stands out for its personalized academic advising and student success centers, helping learners achieve their goals through a flexible and technology-driven curriculum.
Pros
- Beautiful campus
- Modern technology integration
Cons
- Located in a busy area
- Competitive course registration
Community-focused college providing diverse learning opportunities.
Details
- Year Founded: 1979
- Employees: 250-500
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-602-243-8000
- Email: info@southmountaincc.edu
About the Company
South Mountain is dedicated to student growth through community-based education. It is widely recognized for its Storytelling Institute and inclusive culture that fosters strong student-faculty relationships.
Pros
- Inclusive environment
- Community-focused programs
Cons
- Fewer evening course options
- Distance from city center
A comprehensive institution serving a large and diverse student body.
Details
- Year Founded: 1963
- Employees: 1000-2000
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-480-461-7000
- Email: outreach@mesacc.edu
About the Company
Mesa provides a wide array of transfer programs and vocational degrees. It offers a classic college experience with a huge range of clubs, sports, and social events, keeping students engaged throughout their studies.
Pros
- Extensive extracurriculars
- Large student network
Cons
- Large campus size
- High student-to-teacher ratio
Renowned for its unique location and performing arts programs.
Details
- Year Founded: 1970
- Employees: 500-900
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +1-480-423-6000
- Email: admission@scottsdalecc.edu
About the Company
Located on tribal land, SCC offers unique educational perspectives. It is famous for its performing arts and film school, providing students with creative outlets alongside traditional degree programs.
Pros
- Unique cultural context
- Outstanding arts programs
Cons
- Higher course fees for some
- Strict attendance policies
High-quality academics with a focus on career advancement.
Details
- Year Founded: 1965
- Employees: 600-1100
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-623-845-3000
- Email: info@gccaz.edu
About the Company
Glendale offers a rigorous academic environment with high transfer rates to major universities. It is a reliable choice for students balancing work and school, thanks to its flexible scheduling.
Pros
- Strong transfer programs
- Flexible scheduling
Cons
- Campus is sprawling
- Traffic near campus
Leading in STEM and innovative education in the region.
Details
- Year Founded: 1985
- Employees: 400-700
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-480-732-7000
- Email: info@cgc.edu
About the Company
CGCC has rapidly grown into a hub for technology and science education. It features state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry connections, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the competitive job market.
Pros
- Advanced STEM labs
- Modern facilities
Cons
- Rapidly growing student population
- Limited parking
Serving the West Valley with quality academic pathways.
Details
- Year Founded: 1990
- Employees: 300-500
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-623-935-8000
- Email: admissions@estrellamountain.edu
About the Company
Estrella Mountain is known for its beautiful architecture and emphasis on sustainability. It provides a welcoming environment for both fresh high school graduates and adults returning to education.
Pros
- Sustainable campus
- Welcoming environment
Cons
- Less diverse program list
- Distance from urban center
The premier choice for online and flexible learning in the valley.
Details
- Year Founded: 1978
- Employees: 800-1500
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-480-517-8000
- Email: contact@riosalado.edu
About the Company
Rio Salado is the leader in remote education. With its highly flexible enrollment structure, it is the perfect solution for working professionals who need to balance their education with a full-time career.
Pros
- Excellent online platform
- Flexible enrollment
Cons
- No traditional campus life
- Requires self-discipline
Dedicated to specialized workforce training and professional certification.
Details
- Year Founded: 2013
- Employees: 100-300
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +1-480-377-2700
- Email: info@maricopacorporate.com
About the Company
If you are looking for rapid certification, Maricopa Corporate College is the place. They work closely with local companies to create training programs that directly fulfill current regional job demands.
Pros
- Fast-track programs
- Corporate partnerships
Cons
- Not focused on academic degrees
- Less social life
Extensive academic reach serving communities across Arizona.
Details
- Year Founded: 1963
- Employees: 500-900
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-928-317-6000
- Email: info@azwestern.edu
About the Company
AWC is a reliable provider of general education and vocational training. Their emphasis on student success and community involvement makes them a staple for regional skill development and higher education.
Pros
- Diverse course options
- Community focus
Cons
- Remote from Phoenix
- Standard facilities
High-quality instruction with a broad curriculum range.
Details
- Year Founded: 1966
- Employees: 1200-2000
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-520-206-4500
- Email: info@pima.edu
About the Company
Pima is well-regarded for its wide academic variety and strong support services for diverse learners. It serves as an essential stepping stone for students pursuing advanced degrees at major state universities.
Pros
- Excellent support services
- Broad curriculum
Cons
- Located in Southern Arizona
- Busy campus facilities
Essential resource for technical and nursing programs in the area.
Details
- Year Founded: 1971
- Employees: 300-600
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-866-664-2832
- Email: info@mohave.edu
About the Company
MCC is known for its strong nursing program and technical training. It provides a small-college atmosphere with dedicated teachers who prioritize individual student outcomes above all else.
Pros
- Strong nursing program
- Personalized attention
Cons
- Limited social activities
- Smaller academic network
Providing quality transfer and vocational education across the county.
Details
- Year Founded: 1961
- Employees: 400-700
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +1-520-494-5444
- Email: info@centralaz.edu
About the Company
CAC serves as a vital educational pillar. Their commitment to affordable, accessible education has helped thousands of students in Pinal County achieve their associate degrees and move on to professional success.
Pros
- Affordability
- Accessible faculty
Cons
- Fewer campus resources
- Limited research options
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
- What are the best community colleges in Phoenix?
Phoenix offers several top-tier community colleges, including Phoenix College and Gateway Community College, known for diverse programs and affordable tuition.
- How much does community college cost in Phoenix for 2026?
Tuition rates vary by residency status, but local community colleges in Phoenix remain one of the most cost-effective ways to earn an associate degree.
- Can I transfer credits from a Phoenix community college to a university?
Yes, most Phoenix community colleges have robust transfer agreements with major universities in Arizona to facilitate seamless credit transfers.
- What vocational programs are available in Phoenix community colleges?
Popular programs include nursing, information technology, welding, automotive technology, and business management.
- Are online courses available at Phoenix community colleges?
Yes, many institutions offer flexible online and hybrid learning options to accommodate working students.
- Do I need a high school diploma to enroll in a community college?
Generally, you need a high school diploma or a GED certificate to enroll, though some institutions offer open-enrollment policies.