-
Arizona's first community college was created
The Phoenix Junior College, which is now known as Phoenix College, was created in 1920. The first classes held were in 3 small cottages as a part of a local high school. The students also selected a school mascot “the bear” which is rumored to be chosen due to the circus leaving a cub in the care of the college.
This is significant because there were very few junior colleges in the country during the 1920’s. This was a great way for students to prepare to work in developing industries. -
Law passes to recognize Junior Colleges
In 1927 a law was passed that formally recognized the Junior Colleges as they were not previously authorized to exsist. Formal accreditation came later in 1928.
This is a significant event as it is a way for the College to show that it is meeting local and national standards for quality. This process is still used today and is important for students because it helps ensure they can receive federal financial aid and transfer of credits by other colleges and universities. -
Construction starts
In 1938, construction started on the new campus, Phoenix College. Over 50 acres of land was purchased to expand the college. The college campus now includes an auditorium, administration building, liberal arts and science building, library, cafeteria, gym and a stadium.
The expansion of Phoenix College allowed for students to get the benefits of a higher education at a lower cost. It also allowed for more students to attend and gave PC the ability to offer more programs of study. -
Maricopa County College District
In 1963 Maricopa citizens voted to have Phoenix College administered by a local governing board. The Phoenix Union High School voted to transfer Phoenix College to Maricopa Community College District Governing Board. In addition, two campuses are set up as an extension of Phoenix College, Glendale and Mesa Community Colleges. This transition allowed the mission and values of PC to be streamlined with the other Junior Colleges in Maricopa County. -
Transition to Maricopa Community College
In 1971, the Maricopa County College District changes their name to Maricopa Community Colleges. This transition also changes the terminology of Junior College to community college. This is more representative of the population they serve. During this time community colleges had rapid enrollment rates and transitioned into primarily vocational institutes. -
Technological & Allied Health Programs
By 1976, Phoenix College offered a variety of technological and allied health programs including Engineering, Building Construction, Criminal Justice, Dental Hygiene, Nursing, Medical Records Technology and many others.
These programs are important for the community as they provide vocational training designed to meet the needs of the employment community. These programs help sustain the local economy by attracting new employers to the area and retaining old employers -
Partnership with Arizona State University
In 2010 a unique partnership was formed with PC and ASU allowing students to complete a bachelor’s degree in the medical lab science program. This educational pathway allows the students to earn 90 college credits at PC and just 30 credits through ASU.
These unique partnerships allow students to obtain higher levels of education at a cheaper cost. This is especially helpful to students as four-year universities are becoming increasingly selective about their incoming students.
