Your Affordable Gateway to College Success
Are you searching for an affordable college education that doesn’t sacrifice quality? Chemeketa Community College in Oregon offers accessible, career-focused programs designed to meet your goals—whether you're fresh out of high school or returning to education later in life. With a strong focus on community, equity, and opportunity, Chemeketa stands out as a place where students succeed.
Why Choose Chemeketa Community College in Oregon?
Chemeketa Community College (CCC) serves over 30,000 students annually across Salem, McMinnville, and regional centers. As one of the top accredited community colleges in Oregon, it offers a wide range of programs suitable for full-time, part-time, and online learners.
Here’s why Chemeketa could be the right choice for you:
- Affordable tuition rates that won’t leave you with overwhelming debt
- Transfer pathways to Oregon’s public universities and beyond
- Wide range of degrees and certificates in healthcare, business, technology, and trades
- Flexible learning options including evening, weekend, and online classes
- Support services to help you succeed—from tutoring to career advising
What Programs Does Chemeketa Offer?
Chemeketa features over 90 programs and certificates, allowing you to explore different careers or prepare for a university transfer. Areas of study include:
- Nursing, Dental Assisting, and Allied Health
- Automotive, Welding, and Applied Technologies
- Business Administration and Accounting
- Early Childhood Education and Human Services
- Computer Science and Cybersecurity
- Criminal Justice and Fire Protection
- Liberal Arts and General Transfer Degrees
Programs are regularly updated to match workforce trends and employer needs in Oregon and across the Pacific Northwest.
Is Chemeketa Community College Really Affordable?
Yes. Chemeketa is known for being one of the most affordable 2-year colleges in Oregon. Oregon residents typically pay less than half the tuition of a state university. Plus, financial aid resources are widely available.
You can apply for:
- Federal Pell Grants and Oregon Opportunity Grants
- On-campus scholarships and work-study programs
- Community grants and industry-sponsored funding
If you're eligible for the Oregon Promise, you may be able to attend without paying tuition at all.
Can You Transfer From Chemeketa to a University?
Absolutely. Chemeketa has formal transfer agreements with public institutions like Oregon State University, University of Oregon, and Portland State University. Many students begin at Chemeketa, complete their AAOT degree, then transfer to finish a bachelor’s program—saving thousands of dollars.
Transfer-friendly programs include:
- Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT)
- Associate of Science Oregon Transfer - Business (ASOT-Bus)
- Associate of Science (AS) degrees in STEM fields
Academic advisors help you map a clear transfer plan from day one.
Is Online Learning Available at Chemeketa?
Yes. Chemeketa Online is a comprehensive distance learning platform offering full degrees and certificates. You can complete many programs from the comfort of home, making it easy to balance education with work or family responsibilities.
Popular online options include:
- Business and Accounting
- Medical Office and Health Information Management
- Computer Information Systems
- General Education and Liberal Arts
Online students have access to the same support services as on-campus learners, including virtual tutoring and advising.
Support Services to Help You Succeed
At Chemeketa, you’re never alone on your educational journey. The college offers wraparound support designed to remove barriers and guide you toward your goals.
These include:
- Academic advising and transfer counseling
- Free tutoring and writing assistance
- Career and job placement services
- Childcare options at designated centers
- On-campus food pantry and emergency assistance
- Services for veterans, first-generation students, and students with disabilities
Dedicated student success coaches work with you one-on-one to customize your path to graduation.
How Do You Apply to Chemeketa?
The college uses an open enrollment model, which means no SAT or ACT is required. Applying is simple:
- Apply online through Chemeketa’s official application portal
- Submit required documents like transcripts and residency information
- Attend an orientation and meet with an advisor
- Select your classes and enroll
Applying early improves your access to financial aid and course selection.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chemeketa Community College
Is Chemeketa Community College accredited?
Yes. Chemeketa is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). This ensures that credits will transfer and that financial aid applies.
Can I go to Chemeketa as a working adult?
Yes. Many students at Chemeketa are adult learners balancing work, family, and school. Evening, weekend, and online courses offer flexibility.
Where is Chemeketa Community College located?
The main campus is in Salem, Oregon. Additional centers include McMinnville, Dallas, Woodburn, and the Yamhill Valley Campus.
Does Chemeketa have student clubs or activities?
Yes. Over 30 student-led clubs let you get involved in sports, leadership, cultural events, and student government.
What if I need help with technology?
Chemeketa offers tech support, Chromebook loans, free Wi-Fi access, and discounted software. Help is available on campus and online.
Start Your Journey at Chemeketa Today
Chemeketa Community College makes higher education in Oregon both affordable and attainable. Whether you're pursuing a career in healthcare, transferring to a university, or learning a skilled trade, Chemeketa provides the foundation you need to thrive.
Your future starts with a bold first step. Start at Chemeketa and discover how far you can go.
