Merced College

Overview

Merced College, located in Merced, California, is a public community college that offers a diverse range of associate degree and certificate programs to students primarily from the Central San Joaquin Valley region. Established in 1962, the college operates on a semester-based academic calendar. Nestled in a largely residential area, the campus environment is characterized by its modern architecture and ample green spaces, providing a tranquil setting conducive to academic pursuits. While Merced College is not residential and does not provide on-campus housing, it serves a substantial commuter population. The institution is known for popular academic programs including Nursing and Allied Health, along with transfer agreements that facilitate student progression to four-year universities. With an open admissions policy, Merced College maintains a relatively accessible and inclusive approach within the realm of higher education. The college does not have a significant athletic profile as the main focus remains on academic and professional development opportunities for its student body.

Merced College has an open admission policy which permits enrollment by any high school graduate or GED holding student.  4,316 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 5,898 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $1,104 plus fees of $90.