Community colleges are two-year public institutions that offer associate degrees, certificates, and career-focused programs. They are often more affordable and flexible than traditional four-year colleges, making them a great choice for students who want to balance school with work or other commitments.
Massachusetts has quite a number of community colleges, which means there are plenty of options to choose from. With so many choices, it makes sense to go for the ones that offer everything you need, like strong academic programs, flexible schedules, supportive faculty, opportunities for career training, and easy transfer options to four-year universities.
Our list of the best community colleges in Massachusetts takes all these factors into account. We also relied on rankings, student reviews, and other reputable sources to ensure you’re seeing the schools that consistently provide high-quality education and a supportive learning environment. Read on to explore our list of the top 10 community colleges in Massachusetts.
Community Colleges vs Traditional Colleges
When deciding where to pursue higher education, it helps to understand the difference between community colleges and traditional four-year colleges. Learn more about these two colleges below:-
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Program Length: Community colleges usually offer 2-year associate degrees and certificates, while traditional colleges offer 4-year bachelor’s degrees and sometimes graduate programs.
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Cost: Community colleges are generally more affordable, making them a popular choice for students who want a quality education without breaking the bank.
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Flexibility: Community colleges often provide day, evening, and online classes, which is perfect if you’re working, have family commitments, or need a flexible schedule. Traditional colleges usually follow a more fixed schedule.
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Campus Experience: Traditional colleges typically have bigger campuses, more clubs, sports, and events, giving students a full college experience. Community colleges are smaller and focus more on academics and support.
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Career vs Academic Focus: Community colleges often emphasize career training and workforce readiness. Traditional colleges focus on in-depth study, research, and preparing students for a wide range of career paths or further education.
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Transfer Opportunities: Many community college students start there to save money and then transfer to a traditional college to complete a 4-year degree.
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Class Size & Attention: Community colleges usually have smaller classes, which means more personal attention from instructors. Traditional colleges can have larger lecture-style classes, especially in the first year.
Best Community Colleges in Massachusetts
1. Greenfield Community College (GCC)
Greenfield Community College (GCC) is a public institution in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts.
GCC offers degrees and certificates in fields such as nursing, business, liberal arts, and environmental conservation. The college is renowned for its small class sizes, fostering a personalized learning experience. Additionally, GCC provides flexible learning options with day, evening, and online classes to accommodate various schedules.
Greenfield Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
2. Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC)
Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) is a public college located in Gardner, Massachusetts. It offers over 70 associate degrees and certificate programs, including liberal arts, health sciences, business, and technology.
MWCC provides flexible learning options, including in-person, hybrid, and online courses, to accommodate diverse student needs. Its programs are accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), ensuring that it meets rigorous academic standards and provides quality education to its students.
3. Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC)
Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC), a community college situated in Boston’s Charlestown neighborhood, was established in 1973. It is Massachusetts’ largest community college, enrolling over 13,000 students annually across various campuses and satellite locations.
The college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs in fields such as business, health sciences, information technology, and liberal arts. Ratio of 19:1, BHCC emphasizes personalized learning experiences and academic support.
BHCC is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Specialized programs, like the Associate Degree Registered Nursing Program, hold additional accreditations from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and are approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
4. North Shore Community College
North Shore Community College, located in Danvers, Massachusetts, is a public college serving the North Shore region. It was founded in 1965 and has since offered a range of associate degrees and certificate programs in fields like liberal arts, business, health sciences, and information technology.
NSCC also provides flexible learning options, including day, evening, and online classes, making it easier for students to balance school, work, and life. The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
5. Berkshire Community College
Berkshire Community College, located in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is a public college serving students across Berkshire County. BCC offers a variety of associate degrees and certificate programs in areas like liberal arts, health sciences, business, and STEM fields.
The college emphasizes small class sizes and hands-on learning, giving students the attention they need to succeed. BCC also provides flexible schedules with day, evening, and online courses, making it convenient for working students or those with other commitments.
BCC is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
6. MassBay Community College
MassBay Community College, located in Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts, is a public college that has been serving students since 1961. The college offers associate degrees and certificate programs in fields such as health sciences, business, liberal arts, and technology.
MassBay is known for its supportive environment, small class sizes, and faculty who are committed to helping students succeed. They also offer flexible learning options, including in-person, evening, and online courses, making it easier for students to balance school, work, and life.
MassBay Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
7. Middlesex Community College
Middlesex Community College, located in Bedford, Massachusetts, is a public institution that has been helping students achieve their goals since 1970. MCC offers associate degrees and certificate programs in areas like liberal arts, health sciences, business, and STEM fields.
The college is known for its friendly environment, small class sizes, and faculty who provide personalized support to help students succeed. Flexible learning options, including in-person, evening, and online courses, make it easier for students to balance school with work and life commitments.
Middlesex Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
8. Bristol Community College
If you’re looking for a community college in Massachusetts that combines quality education with a friendly campus vibe, Bristol Community College in Fall River is a great choice.
It was founded in 1965 and offers a wide variety of programs, from business and health sciences to liberal arts and technology. Classes are designed to be small enough so that instructors really get to know you and help you succeed.
The college also understands that students have busy lives, so it offers flexible schedules with day, evening, and online classes. On top of that, BCC is fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), meaning you can trust that the education you receive here is top-notch.
9. Holyoke Community College
Holyoke Community College, located in Holyoke, Massachusetts, is a public college that has been serving students since 1946. HCC offers a variety of programs, including liberal arts, business, health sciences, and STEM fields, giving students plenty of options to start their careers or transfer to a four-year school.
The college is known for its welcoming atmosphere, small class sizes, and dedicated faculty who provide hands-on support to help students succeed. HCC also offers flexible learning options, including day, evening, and online classes, so students can balance school with work or family life.
The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), ensuring its programs meet high standards and provide quality education.
10. Quinsigamond Community College
Quinsigamond Community College is one of the best community colleges in Massachusetts, and deservedly so because it offers a range of programs, including liberal arts, health sciences, business, and STEM fields.
The college stands out for its supportive faculty, small class sizes, and hands-on learning opportunities that help students succeed, whether they plan to start a career or transfer to a four-year university.
It also provides flexible learning options with day, evening, and online courses. Quinsigamond Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
FAQs About Community Colleges in Massachusetts
Can I transfer from a community college to a university in Massachusetts?
Absolutely. Many students start at a community college and then transfer to a four-year college or university in the state. Massachusetts has formal transfer agreements that make it easier for students to continue their education without losing credits.
Are community colleges in Massachusetts affordable?
Yes! One of the biggest benefits of attending a community college in Massachusetts is cost. Tuition is generally much lower than at traditional four-year colleges, making it a smart option for students looking to save money while earning a quality degree.
How do community colleges in Massachusetts support local students?
Community colleges in Massachusetts often focus on serving their local communities. They provide affordable education options close to home, career training aligned with local industries, and partnerships with businesses for internships and job placement. This makes it easier for students to study, gain experience, and find work within the state.
Are there opportunities for adult learners or working students at Massachusetts community colleges?
Yes! Many Massachusetts community colleges are designed with flexibility in mind. They offer evening, weekend, and online classes so adult learners or working students can continue their education without disrupting their schedules. Some colleges also provide career counseling and skill-building programs specifically for adults returning to school.
Explore our list of the best community colleges in Massachusetts, compare programs, and find the one that fits your goals and lifestyle.