By DAVID BOBO / Guest Columnist

Planning for college is an exciting time filled with many decisions. Many students are concerned about deciding a major and others about how they will pay for college. Choosing to attend a community college like Jefferson State can be a very smart move. Here are a few reasons why it is a great choice.

Quality

Data shows students who begin at Jefferson State perform as well, if not better, than students who start at a four-year college. Jefferson State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is recognized as a leader in education.

Value

Tuition at community colleges is typically less than half of what students pay at public four-year colleges. Tuition and fees at Jefferson State are $146 per credit hour. A full-time student taking 12 hours would pay $1752 per semester. Financial aid is also available.

Convenience

Community colleges are located close to home and serve people in their home community. Flexible scheduling allows students to arrange their classes in the day, night, or online to fit around an active schedule. Jefferson State has a wide array of online classes and four campuses conveniently located in Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Chilton counties.

Personal Attention

Students benefit greatly from the small classes at Jefferson State. Instructors get to know their students and provide the personal attention students deserve.

Guaranteed Transfer

Jefferson State students who follow the STARS Transfer Guide are guaranteed their credits will transfer to a four-year college in Alabama. This is a great way to save money and graduate from the four-year college of your choice. Approximately half of Jefferson State students transfer to a four-year college to continue their education.

Career Programs

In addition to college transfer, many career programs at Jefferson State can provide the skills needed for in-demand professions. Jefferson State awards associate degrees in manufacturing technology, nursing, culinary arts, veterinary technology, radiologic technology, computer information systems, emergency medical services, child development, and many more. With more than 250 nursing graduates each year, Jefferson State is the leading producer of graduates with associate degrees in nursing in Alabama.

Whatever the reason, a community college is a great choice for your education. To learn more about how Jefferson State can help you, go online at www.jeffersonstate.edu or call (205) 983-5911.

 

David Bobo is the director of college and community relations with Jefferson State Community College.