Overview
Orange Coast College was founded in 1947 as the first community college in the Coast Community College District, established to serve returning World War II veterans and the growing population of Orange County. Over decades it has grown into one of the largest and most respected community colleges in California, known for high transfer rates to four-year universities including the University of California and California State University systems. OCC is particularly recognized for its School of Sailing and Seamanship, aviation science, culinary arts, and radiologic technology programs, drawing students from across the region and beyond.
At a Glance
| Type | Community College |
| Location | Costa Mesa, California |
| Founded | 1947 |
| Total students | 22,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 27:1 |
| Acceptance rate | Open Admission |
| Graduation rate | 38% |
| Average starting salary | N/A |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $1,380 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $9,780 |
| Room & board | $12,000 |
| Average financial aid | $5,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 55% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Marine Sailing and Seamanship
- Culinary Arts
- Aviation Science
- Radiologic Technology
- Horticulture
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.