Los Angeles City College – Education in the Heart of Hollywood
Los Angeles City College (LACC) is a public community college located in the vibrant East Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Established in 1929, LACC has been a cornerstone of higher education in the city for nearly a century, offering a diverse range of academic programs and career training opportunities to its student body of over 18,000.
Academic Programs and Offerings
Popular Majors and Degrees
LACC provides more than 100 vocational and professional programs, including:
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Natural Sciences, Physics)
- Technology
- Transfer programs
- Certificates
Transfer Pathways
The college has a strong focus on preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions. Its Transfer Center offers resources and guidance to help students transition to participating colleges and universities.
Career Education
LACC emphasizes career training courses and direct pathways to employment, ensuring students are well-prepared for the job market.
Student Services and Support
LACC offers comprehensive support services to meet the diverse needs of its student population:
- Financial Aid assistance
- Transfer Center
- Career Education resources
- Umoja program for African American students
- NextUp program for current and former foster youth
- UndocuLiaisons for undocumented students
- Veterans Resource Center
- Basic Needs support (food, housing, and transportation)
- Campus Life and Diversity
Student Demographics
LACC serves a diverse student body, reflecting the multicultural nature of Los Angeles:
Ethnic Group | Percentage (2018) |
---|---|
Hispanic and Latino American | 57% |
White | 13% |
Asian American | 9% |
African American | 6% |
Multiracial Americans | 2% |
International students | 3% |
Campus Location and History
The LACC campus has a rich history:
- Originally a farm owned by Dennis Sullivan
- Became the original UCLA campus in 1919
- Opened as Los Angeles Junior College in 1929
- Renamed Los Angeles City College in 1938
Academic Quality and Faculty
- Student-faculty ratio: 23-to-1
- Total enrollment: 13,827 (3,999 full-time, 9,828 part-time)
Affordability and Financial Aid
LACC strives to provide affordable education:
- In-state tuition and fees (2017-2018): $1,220
- Out-of-state tuition and fees (2017-2018): $7,538
- No application fee
The college offers various financial aid options and scholarships to support students’ educational goals.
Student Success and Outcomes
LACC is committed to student success, offering:
- One year of free enrollment to full-time students graduating from LAUSD high schools and charter schools
- Career training and job placement assistance
- Transfer pathways to four-year institutions
Unique Features and Innovations
- Part of the Los Angeles Community College District
- Shared campus with California State University, Los Angeles from 1947 to 1955
- Emphasis on career education and workforce development
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
While LACC has many strengths, it faces challenges common to urban community colleges:
- Adapting to changing workforce needs
- Supporting a diverse student population with varying educational backgrounds
- Maintaining and upgrading facilities in a historic campus
Conclusion
Los Angeles City College stands as a vital institution in the heart of Los Angeles, providing accessible, quality education to a diverse urban population. With its rich history, comprehensive academic offerings, and strong support services, LACC continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of its students and the broader Los Angeles community.For more information or to apply, visit the Los Angeles City College website.
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