So you’re looking at options for college in Michigan and wondering if Washtenaw Community College should make your shortlist. As someone who attended WCC for two years before transferring to a four-year school, I’m here to give you the inside scoop on what makes Washtenaw such a great choice.
Located in Ann Arbor with satellite campuses in Brighton and Chelsea, WCC has been serving the community for over 50 years. What first drew me in was the small class sizes, flexible course options, and affordability. But what made me stay was the supportive environment, opportunities to get involved in campus life, and resources to help figure out my path.
If you’re looking to earn an associate’s degree, brush up on skills, or just get some credits under your belt before moving on to a university, Washtenaw Community College deserves your consideration. It may just end up being one of the best decisions you make.
Overview of Washtenaw Community College
Washtenaw Community College (WCC) is a two-year community college located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. For over 50 years, WCC has provided an affordable, quality education for students in Washtenaw County and surrounding areas.
WCC offers over 100 programs of study including liberal arts, sciences, business, health, and technical areas of study. Whether you’re looking to earn an associate’s degree, workforce certificate, or transfer to a four-year university, WCC has flexible options to fit your needs. Classes are offered days, evenings, weekends, and online.
With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, WCC provides a supportive learning environment. Tuition is very affordable, costing a third of most four-year schools. WCC works with students to provide financial assistance and scholarships.
The campus itself is also impressive. WCC recently opened a new science building and student center. The campus has modern classrooms, computer labs, art studios, a library, gym, theater, and more. The beautiful grounds also include nature trails, ponds, and outdoor study spaces.
Beyond the classroom, WCC offers over 30 student clubs and organizations covering academics, hobbies, diversity, leadership, and community service interests. The college also hosts many events open to the public like cultural festivals, music performances, athletic competitions, and guest lectures.
Overall, Washtenaw Community College is an excellent choice for starting your college education. With its ideal location, reasonable cost, quality programs, campus facilities, and student life opportunities, WCC has everything you need to achieve your goals. Many students find that their experience at WCC prepares them well for transferring to a university or entering a career. If you’re looking for an affordable college option in Michigan, WCC should be at the top of your list.
Academic Programs Offered at WCC
Washtenaw Community College (WCC) offers over 100 programs of study across a wide range of academic and career tracks. No matter your interests or goals, WCC likely has program options for you.
Liberal Arts and Transfer Programs
If you plan to eventually transfer to a four-year university to earn your bachelor’s degree, WCC’s liberal arts and general studies programs provide a solid foundation. Coursework in communications, humanities, math, science, and social sciences will transfer seamlessly to schools like Eastern Michigan University, Michigan State University, and the University of Michigan.
Career and Technical Programs
For those looking to enter the workforce with an associate’s degree or technical certificate, WCC offers many high-demand programs. Options include business administration, computer information systems, criminal justice, culinary arts, health care, IT networking, welding, and much more. These programs provide hands-on learning and internship opportunities to prepare you for job openings in the area.
Continuing Education
Maybe you’re already in the workforce but want to advance your skills. WCC’s continuing education programs provide short-term training and certifications in areas like project management, web design, medical coding, and pharmacy tech. Courses are offered on campus and online for maximum flexibility.
No matter where you are in life or what your goals may be, WCC aims to meet you there. Their dedicated faculty and staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse range of programs make WCC an excellent, affordable option for higher education in Michigan.
Student Life and Campus Culture
Student life at Washtenaw Community College is an important part of the overall experience. With over 12,000 students across four campuses, there are many opportunities to get involved in campus culture and find your community.
Clubs and Organizations
Washtenaw Community College has over 50 clubs and organizations for students to join, from honor societies and student government to recreational and career-focused groups. Joining a club is a great way to pursue your interests, gain experience, make new friends and connections, and boost your college experience.
Athletics
Even though WCC is a two-year school, it still has a robust athletics program with 10 sports teams. Students can try out for and support teams like baseball, softball, volleyball, basketball, soccer and more. Attending athletic events is a perfect opportunity for students to show school spirit and bond over their team.
Student Events
There’s always something going on at WCC, from guest lectures and film screenings to fundraisers, cultural events and Student Life activities. Follow WCC on social media or check the events calendar on their website to stay up to date with events. Some of the major events each year include Welcome Week, Homecoming, World Fest and Earth Day celebrations.
Campus Centers
Each WCC campus has spaces designed specifically for students to study, socialize and access resources. The Student Center on the Ann Arbor campus, for example, has lounges, a cafeteria, computer labs and hosts many student events. The tutoring centers offer free walk-in tutoring for those who need help in any subject.
WCC aims to provide students with a well-rounded and supportive college experience. By getting involved in student life activities, clubs, events and taking advantage of campus resources, students can gain new skills, forge meaningful relationships, and make the most of their time at Washtenaw Community College.
Affordable Tuition and Financial Aid Options
Affordable Tuition and Financial Aid Options
Washtenaw Community College offers very affordable tuition rates for Michigan residents. For the 2021-2022 school year, tuition is only $122 per credit hour. This means a full-time student taking 30 credits per year would pay around $3,660 in tuition and fees. Compared to the average cost of over $10,000 per year at a public four-year college in Michigan, WCC provides an extremely budget-friendly option to earn your first two years of college credits.
In addition to low tuition, WCC offers generous financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Over 85% of WCC students receive some form of financial assistance. Options include:
- Federal grants like the Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) which do not need to be repaid. Awards range from $600 to $6,345 per year depending on financial need.
- Federal student loans with low interest rates. Subsidized Stafford loans do not accrue interest while you are in school.
- Scholarships for academic achievement, financial need, student organizations, athletics, and more. The WCC Foundation awards over $500,000 in scholarships each year.
- Payment plans to spread out tuition payments over the semester with no interest charges.
- Waivers for senior citizens, veterans, and employees of certain companies.
- On-campus student employment opportunities with flexible hours.
With the affordable tuition and abundance of aid, WCC aims to minimize financial barriers so students can focus on their education. No student is turned away due to lack of funds. WCC advisors can help determine what types of aid you may qualify for and assist you through the application process.
The bottom line is that Washtenaw Community College provides high-quality higher education at a price that can’t be beat. For those looking to save money on general education requirements before transferring to a four-year school or train for an in-demand career, WCC should be at the top of your list.
Preparing for a Successful Career After WCC
Once you’ve completed your program at Washtenaw Community College (WCC), you’ll be ready to start an exciting new career. WCC offers many resources to help prepare you for success after graduation.
Build a Professional Network
Start connecting with people in your field of study through WCC’s alumni network and professional organizations. Attend industry events and conferences to make personal connections and learn about new opportunities. Connecting with others who have gone through WCC’s programs can lead to mentorship and job openings.
Polish Your Resume
WCC’s career services center offers guidance on crafting a compelling resume highlighting your education, skills, and experience. Include relevant coursework, projects, internships, and accomplishments from your time at WCC. Get feedback from career counselors and have your resume reviewed by people currently in roles you aspire to.
Search for Job Openings
Once you have a polished resume, start actively searching for job openings on sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, Monster and WCC’s career portal. Many local employers actively recruit WCC graduates. Don’t hesitate to apply to positions you’re interested in, even if you don’t meet all the qualifications. You never know what opportunities may lead to an interview and potential job offer.
Practice Your Interviewing Skills
WCC’s career services center offers resources to help you prepare for job interviews, including mock interviews. Be ready to give specific examples of relevant experience, skills, and career goals. Do research on the company and role so you can speak knowledgeably about why you’re interested and how you would be a great fit. With practice, your confidence will shine through.
WCC provides an array of resources and support to ensure you’re in a prime position to start your career after earning your degree or certificate. Take advantage of all the college offers—it will pay off tremendously in your search for a rewarding job upon graduation. With hard work and persistence, you’ll be employed in a position you love in no time!
FAQs
FAQs
Have some questions about attending Washtenaw Community College? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers to help you out.
What programs does WCC offer?
WCC offers over 100 programs of study, including associate degrees, certificates, and job skills training. Some of the popular options include:
- Business Administration
- Nursing
- Computer Information Systems
- Welding
- Police Academy
How much does WCC cost?
WCC has very affordable tuition rates for Michigan residents. Tuition is about $114 per credit hour. Many students qualify for need-based scholarships and financial aid, in addition to merit scholarships offered by WCC.
Is WCC a good school?
Yes, WCC provides high-quality education and training. It has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, indicating it meets high standards of quality. WCC has a solid reputation in Michigan for preparing students for successful careers or for transfer to four-year colleges.
What kind of student life is offered?
WCC offers many opportunities for student life and involvement on campus. There are over 20 student clubs and organizations, including honor societies, cultural groups, and special interest clubs. WCC also has an active Student Government, and holds many events throughout the year like cultural celebrations, lectures, performances, and recreational activities.
While WCC primarily serves as a commuter school, students find a vibrant campus life with chances to gain valuable experience, connect with others, and become involved in the community. WCC aims to provide an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds feel welcome.
Does WCC have online classes?
Yes, WCC offers many courses and some full programs available online. This provides flexibility and convenience for students to complete their studies on their own schedule. Both fully online as well as hybrid options, with some on-campus meetings, are available depending on the program.
Conclusion
You’ve learned why Washtenaw Community College should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality education in Michigan. With its excellent faculty, flexible learning options, and over 100 programs to choose from, WCC has something for everyone.
Whether you want to earn your associate’s degree, gain career training, or pursue lifelong learning, Washtenaw Community College provides an accessible path to achieve your goals. For a community college, the amount of support services offered is unparalleled.
At the end of the day, WCC aims to empower students and enrich lives through learning. If that sounds like the kind of college experience you’re after, look no further than Washtenaw Community College. It could be one of the best decisions you ever make.