Thousands of residents across the commonwealth turn to community colleges for training and education. Approximately 249,295 students took at least one credited course during the 2007-08 academic year – the equivalent of 101,899 students enrolled full time.

Students can transfer associate degrees or land high-paying jobs right out of school. “What sets us apart from four-year institutions of higher learning is that we place an emphasis on industry-relevant high-tech skills that can be learned in a short period of time,” said Dr. J. Mark Estepp, president of Southwest Virginia Community College.

ABINGDON, Va. – Though the war in Iraq seems far removed from the hustle and bustle on the Virginia Highlands Community College campus, it still impacts many student veterans on a daily basis.

ABINGDON, Va. – Virginia Highlands Community College junior Justin Pennington is among thousands of students trying to save money by attending a community college.

Thousands of residents across the commonwealth turn to community colleges for training and education. Approximately 240,342 students took at least one credited course during the 2006-07 academic year.