Community College
Community College has often been seen as the first, and easiest access point to post-secondary education for two reasons, a shortened time commitment and a lower cost. Typical community college programs span 6 quarters, or 2 full years during which time a student can earn an associates degree. With this degree, students can enter straight into the workforce with decent earning capacity or they can choose to continue their education by transferring to a 4 year institution to complete a higher degree. An associates (2 yr) degree comes in at a fraction of the cost of a bachelors (4 yr) degree depending on the program.
Variety of program offerings in academic subject areas and skilled trades
Options for certificate programs which take even less time to complete than an associates degree
Small class sizes with more opportunity for support in job placement