Overview
Houston Community College was established in 1971 to provide affordable, accessible higher education to the greater Houston area. Originally created as part of the Houston Independent School District before becoming an independent college district, HCC has grown into one of the largest community college systems in the United States, serving a highly diverse student population across multiple campuses. The college is known for its strong workforce training programs, transfer pathways to four-year universities, and responsiveness to the region's economic needs, including energy, healthcare, and technology sectors.
At a Glance
| Type | Community College |
| Location | Houston, Texas |
| Founded | 1971 |
| Total students | 45,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 22:1 |
| Acceptance rate | Open admission |
| Graduation rate | 22% |
| Average starting salary | $38,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $2,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $6,200 |
| Room & board | $0 |
| Average financial aid | $4,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Process Technology
- Culinary Arts
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.