| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: Pasadena, California
Founded: 1924
Type: Public community college
Campus Size: 53 acres
Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
Offers associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year universities.
Strong transfer programs with University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems.
Popular programs include nursing, business, computer science, engineering, arts, and humanities.
Career education programs in fields like healthcare, automotive technology, and graphic design.
Honors program for high-achieving students.
Over 90 student clubs and organizations.
Competitive athletics teams (Lancers) in sports like basketball, soccer, and football.
Cultural and academic events throughout the year.
Open admission policy for California residents and international students.
Affordable tuition, especially for in-state students.
Financial aid, scholarships, and work-study programs available.
International students are welcome and can apply through the PCC International Student Center.
Jackie Robinson (Baseball Hall of Famer)
Octavia Butler (Award-winning science fiction writer)
Michael Anthony (Musician, Van Halen)
PCC offers Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Science (AS) degrees. These can be used for career preparation or transferred to a four-year university.
Popular Associate Degree Programs:
Business & Management
Accounting
Business Administration (Transfer to CSU/UC)
Entrepreneurship
Computer Science & IT
Computer Science
Web Development
Cybersecurity
Engineering & Technology
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Health & Medical Sciences
Nursing (Registered Nurse - RN)
Dental Assisting
Radiologic Technology
Arts & Humanities
Graphic Design
Music
Theater Arts
Science & Math
Biology
Chemistry
Mathematics
Social Sciences
Psychology
Sociology
Political Science
Media & Communication
Journalism
Television & Radio Broadcasting
Film & Media Studies
These programs provide specialized training for students looking to enter the workforce quickly.
Popular Certificate Programs:
Automotive Technology
Cosmetology
Culinary Arts
Digital Media & Design
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Paralegal Studies
Pharmacy Technician
PCC is known for its transfer pathways to University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) campuses. The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) allows students to complete their lower-division coursework at PCC and transfer as juniors.
Popular Transfer Programs:
Business Administration (to CSU/UC)
Computer Science (to UC Berkeley, UCLA, etc.)
Engineering (to Caltech, UC, CSU)
Psychology (to UC Davis, UC Irvine, etc.)
Biology (for pre-med students)
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (RN to BSN Pathway) |
2 Years |
~$6,000 (California Residents) |
Affordable Tuition: Lower cost compared to four-year universities
Easy University Transfer: High transfer rate to UC and CSU schools
Diverse Campus: Students from over 70+ countries
International Student Support: Dedicated International Student Center (ISC)
Flexible Course Options: Associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs
PCC offers:
Associate Degrees (AA/AS) – 2-year programs before transferring to a university
Certificate Programs – Short-term skill-based training
Transfer Programs – Complete 2 years at PCC and transfer to a 4-year university for a bachelor's degree
Popular Programs for International Students:
Business Administration
Computer Science & Information Technology
Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil)
Health Sciences (Nursing, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Tech)
Arts & Design (Graphic Design, Film, Music)
Social Sciences (Psychology, Sociology, Political Science)
Before applying, identify your applicant type:
First-Time College Student – Never attended college before
Transfer Student – Previously attended another college/university
International Student – Applying from outside the U.S. (F-1 Visa required)
Returning Student – Previously attended PCC but took a break
Dual Enrollment (High School Student) – Taking PCC classes while in high school
General Requirements (For All Students):
High school diploma or equivalent
Completed PCC online application
Placement in English & Math (via self-guided assessment)
No SAT/ACT required
Additional Requirements for International Students:
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL 45 iBT, IELTS 5.0, Duolingo 75)
Bank Statement (Financial proof of $30,000)
Passport Copy
F-1 Visa Application (After receiving I-20 form)
A. For Domestic Students (U.S. Residents & Transfers)
Step 1: Apply Online
Apply through the California Community Colleges application portal.
No application fee required.
Step 2: Complete the PCC Application
Once you submit your CCCApply application, you'll receive an LancerPoint Student Portal login.
Step 3: Placement & Orientation
Complete self-placement for English & Math (no SAT/ACT needed).
Attend New Student Orientation (online or in-person).
Step 4: Register for Classes
Meet with an Academic Counselor to plan courses.
Use LancerPoint to enroll in classes.
Step 5: Pay Tuition & Start Classes
Pay tuition by the payment deadline.
Buy textbooks and attend the first day of class.
Deadlines for Domestic Students:
Fall Semester: Apply by July 1
Spring Semester: Apply by December 1
Step 1: Apply Online via PCC International Admissions
Submit an online application via.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Passport Copy
Bank Statement (showing $30,000 for expenses)
English Proficiency Scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)
Official Transcripts (Translated into English)
Step 3: Receive Your I-20 Form
Once accepted, PCC issues an I-20 form for your F-1 Student Visa application.
Step 4: Apply for F-1 Student Visa
Pay the SEVIS Fee ($350)
Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy
Attend the interview with your I-20, acceptance letter, financial proof, and passport
Step 5: Travel to the U.S. & Attend Orientation
Arrive in the U.S. before the semester starts.
Attend Mandatory International Student Orientation.
Register for classes and begin your studies.
Deadlines for International Students:
Fall Semester: Apply by June 1
Spring Semester: Apply by November 1
Intake |
Application Deadline (International Students) |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester (Main Intake) |
June 1 |
August |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
January |
|
Summer Session (Limited Courses) |
April 15 |
June |
|
Winter Session (Limited Courses) |
October 15 |
January |
The Fall and Spring semesters offer full-time enrollment, while Summer and Winter sessions have fewer courses available.
Minimum Age: 18 years or high school graduate/equivalent
No SAT/ACT required
English & Math Placement Test (for course selection)
Educational Requirements:
High school diploma (equivalent to U.S. high school completion)
Official transcripts (translated into English)
English Language Proficiency (One of the following):
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
45 |
|
IELTS |
5.0 |
|
Duolingo English Test |
75 |
|
PTE Academic |
38 |
|
Completion of PCC’s English Language Program (ELP) |
Accepted |
Financial Requirements:
Bank statement showing $30,000 (for tuition & living expenses)
Sponsor letter (if applicable)
Visa Requirements:
Valid passport
I-20 Form (issued by PCC after admission)
F-1 Student Visa application (after receiving I-20)
Health Insurance:
Mandatory for all international students (~$1,500 per year)
Official transcripts from previous college/university
Minimum GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
If transferring from another U.S. college, SEVIS transfer form required
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
PCC Foundation Scholarships |
Open to all PCC students (merit & need-based) |
$250 – $3,000 |
March (Annual) |
|
PCC Honors Program Scholarship |
Enrolled in PCC Honors Program with a high GPA |
$500 – $2,000 |
N/A |
|
President’s Scholars Program |
First-time college students with a strong academic record |
Full or partial tuition |
Fall Semester |
|
Associated Students (AS) Scholarships |
Active in student government or leadership roles |
$500 – $1,500 |
Spring Semester |
|
STEM Scholarship |
Students majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) |
$1,000 – $5,000 |
N/A |
|
PCC Transfer Scholarships |
Students transferring to a four-year university (UCLA, UC Berkeley, etc.) |
$500 – $3,000 |
N/A |
|
California College Promise Grant (CCPG) |
California residents with financial need |
Covers tuition fees |
Rolling |
|
Dream Act Scholarship |
Undocumented & DACA students |
N/A |
March (Annual) |
|
External & Private Scholarships |
Offered by organizations outside PCC |
$500 – $10,000 |
N/A |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Libraries |
Shatford Library with study rooms, research materials, and computer labs |
|
Student Resource Centers |
Tutoring, career counseling, and academic support services |
|
International Student Center (ISC) |
Support for international students, visa help, and cultural programs |
|
Athletic Facilities |
Gym, swimming pool, basketball courts, and soccer field |
|
Cafeteria & Dining |
On-campus food court with multiple dining options |
|
Computer Labs |
High-tech labs with free Wi-Fi access |
|
Health & Wellness Center |
Medical, mental health, and counseling services |
|
Student Clubs & Organizations |
90+ clubs for academic, cultural, and social activities |
Since PCC does not provide on-campus housing, students can choose from off-campus apartments, homestays, and shared housing near the college.
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Estimated Cost Per Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 students per unit) |
Common choice among students; shared rent & utilities |
$800 – $1,200 |
$9,600 – $14,400 |
|
Studio Apartment (Private) |
Small apartment for one person |
$1,500 – $2,000 |
$18,000 – $24,000 |
|
Homestay (Living with a local family, meals included) |
Good for international students adjusting to the U.S. |
$1,000 – $1,400 |
$12,000 – $16,800 |
|
Student Housing Complexes (Private, near campus) |
Fully furnished with student-friendly amenities |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
$14,400 – $21,600 |
Additional Costs:
Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $50 – $150/month
Transportation (bus/train): $50 – $100/month
Food & groceries: $300 – $600/month
PCC has 90+ student clubs covering academics, culture, sports, and hobbies. Some popular ones include:
International Student Club – Helps global students connect and adjust to life in the U.S.
STEM Club – Ideal for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) – Honors society for high-achieving students.
Performing Arts & Music Groups – Includes choir, theater, and dance clubs.
Business & Entrepreneurship Club – Supports students in developing business skills.
LGBTQ+ Alliance – A safe space for LGBTQ+ students and allies.
Joining a club is a great way to meet people, gain leadership experience, and enhance your resume!
PCC’s athletic teams, known as the Lancers, compete in various sports, including:
Men’s & Women’s Basketball
Soccer
Football
Swimming & Diving
Track & Field
Volleyball
Students can participate in intramural sports and fitness programs at the on-campus gym and recreation center.
PCC hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as:
Welcome Week – Orientation and fun activities for new students.
Cultural Festivals – Celebrations of different cultures, including Lunar New Year, Hispanic Heritage Month, and more.
Career Fairs & Workshops – Networking events with employers and universities.
Guest Lectures & Seminars – Featuring industry professionals and professors.
Music & Theater Performances – Showcasing student talents.
There’s always something happening on campus to keep students engaged!
PCC provides excellent facilities to support student success, including:
Shatford Library – A modern library with study spaces, research materials, and free Wi-Fi.
Student Success Center – Free tutoring, counseling, and academic support.
International Student Center (ISC) – Helps international students with visas, cultural adjustment, and academic planning.
Health & Wellness Center – Medical, mental health, and counseling services.
Cafeteria & Food Court – Multiple dining options with affordable meals.
Since PCC does not offer on-campus housing, most students live in off-campus apartments, homestays, or shared housing nearby.
Public transportation is convenient, with Metro buses and trains providing easy access to Los Angeles and other areas.
Students can get a discounted Metro TAP card for unlimited bus and train rides.
Students can work part-time on campus (up to 20 hours per week) in places like:
Library
Cafeteria
Student Services Office
Bookstore
International students (on F-1 visas) can work only on campus but may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) after completing a degree.
PCC has a welcoming and diverse student body, with students from 70+ countries. The college promotes an inclusive environment where students from different backgrounds feel supported and valued.
PCC’s Career Center offers a variety of services to help students find jobs and internships, including:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Get help writing professional resumes.
Job & Internship Listings – Access to PCC’s Lancer Job Board with part-time and full-time job postings.
Career Counseling – One-on-one career coaching and job search guidance.
Mock Interviews & Workshops – Practice interview skills with professionals.
Job Fairs & Employer Networking Events – Meet recruiters from top companies.
Career Center Website: N/A
PCC has strong partnerships with local businesses, tech companies, hospitals, and research centers. Students can apply for internships in fields like business, healthcare, engineering, and computer science.
Popular Internship Providers for PCC Students:
NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
Caltech (California Institute of Technology)
Kaiser Permanente (Healthcare)
Walt Disney Company
Pasadena City Government
Internships help students gain hands-on experience and improve job prospects after graduation.
PCC graduates can find jobs in various industries, or they can transfer to four-year universities for better career opportunities.
Common Job Fields for PCC Graduates & Average Salaries:
Field |
Average Salary (USD per year) |
Job Roles |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Management |
$45,000 – $70,000 |
Administrative Assistant, Marketing Coordinator, Business Analyst |
|
Computer Science & IT |
$60,000 – $100,000 |
Web Developer, IT Support, Software Engineer (after transfer) |
|
Engineering (Interns & Assistants) |
$50,000 – $80,000 |
Engineering Technician, CAD Designer |
|
Healthcare (Nursing, Medical Assisting) |
$40,000 – $90,000 |
Registered Nurse (RN), Pharmacy Technician, Medical Assistant |
|
Media & Design |
$40,000 – $70,000 |
Graphic Designer, Video Editor, Social Media Manager |
|
Automotive Technology |
$35,000 – $60,000 |
Auto Technician, Mechanic |
Salaries depend on experience, location, and whether students transfer to a four-year university.
One of the biggest advantages of PCC is its strong transfer programs. Many students complete their Associate Degree (2 years) at PCC and then transfer to top universities like:
University of California (UC) System – UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, etc.
California State University (CSU) System – Cal State LA, Cal Poly Pomona, etc.
Private Universities – USC, Loyola Marymount University, etc.
Why Transfer?
Bachelor’s degree holders earn 40-50% more than those with an associate degree.
Better career growth and job opportunities in top companies.
Part-Time Jobs for Students (On-Campus & Off-Campus)
Library Assistant
Administrative Assistant
Tutoring & Peer Mentoring
Cafeteria & Food Services
Bookstore Staff
For International Students (F-1 Visa Holders):
Can work up to 20 hours per week on campus.
Eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation (work in the U.S. for up to 12 months).
Eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) (internships related to studies).
PCC graduates and transfer students have secured jobs in well-known companies and organizations, such as:
Google, Microsoft, Apple (Tech & IT)
NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) (Engineering & Research)
Kaiser Permanente, Huntington Hospital (Healthcare & Nursing)
Warner Bros, Disney, Netflix (Media & Entertainment)
Bank of America, Wells Fargo (Finance & Business)
Affordable Education – Lower tuition costs than universities.
Top Transfer Programs – Get into UCLA, UC Berkeley, USC and more.
Strong Career Services – Job fairs, resume help, internships, and workshops.
Industry Connections – NASA JPL, Kaiser Permanente, Caltech, and more.
Flexible Learning Options – Online, in-person, and hybrid classes.
Pasadena City College (PCC) has an open admission policy, meaning 100% acceptance rate for all students who meet the basic admission requirements.
No SAT/ACT required
No GPA requirement (for general admission)
High school diploma or equivalent required
International students must meet English proficiency requirements
Main Campus Address:
Pasadena City College (PCC)
1570 E Colorado Blvd,
Pasadena, CA 91106,
United States
