Community Colleges in Salt Lake CitySalt Lake City Community Colleges, located inside 13 locations throughout the Salt Lake Valley, operates under the distinction of having one of the largest, most diverse student bodies in the state of Utah. The college system offers ground and online classes and sees an astonishing 95% of students considered Utah residents. As with other community colleges throughout the nation Salt Lake City community colleges exist to fill the needs of students and the surrounding community by offering core classes and technical and vocational courses. Education is a collaborative effort with Salt Lake City community colleges and surrounding undergraduate and graduate universities. Salt Lake community colleges strive to make classes and credits transferable to assist students in facilitating an easy transition from the two year system into the student’s undergraduate program. It is estimated two-thirds of the enrolled student body aspire to obtain their four year degrees. A brief history Salt Lake Community College began classes in the Fall of 1948. After a difficult start the Salt Lake Community College secured its first building and received authorization to begin teaching nearly 40 vocational programs. Salt Lake Community College hit another snag as it struggled to find qualified teachers to fill vital teaching vacancies. After a catchy newspaper ad campaign students began enrolling and classes were underway. By the next quarter the student's ranks had swelled to nearly 950 students, with nearly 600 students being veterans fresh home from the war. In 1959 the Salt Lake Community College switched gears and underwent a name change. The Salt Lake Trade Technical Institute debuted with the intent of focusing on the needs of adults within the community. Thriving as a vocational program Salt Lake Trade Technical Institute continued in this fashion until the 1980s. In 1987 the school formally changed its name to Salt Lake Community College to reflect the evolving needs of the community. Campuses and curriculum Salt Lake Community College operates a variety of campuses as it seeks to fulfill its educational goals. The main campus located in Salt Lake City is home to twelve academic buildings and sees over 15,000 students annually pass through its halls. Salt Lake Community Colleges utilize a variety of other campuses throughout Salt Lake City as well as a comprehensive online program. Students can apply to one of over 200 degree and certificate programs. Conclusion Salt Lake Community Colleges offer a solid foundation for students working toward their undergraduate degree. Despite the number of students in attendance Salt Lake Community Colleges strive to maintain a comprehensive learning environment and has established a credit transfer program to assist students in transitioning to Utah State University to complete their four year degree program. |