Barstow Community College

Nestled in Southern California's High Desert, Barstow Community College stands as a pillar of community education, renowned for its strong commitment to workforce development and academic excellence. Since its establishment in 1959 by local citizens, BCC has grown from humble beginnings, with evening classes starting in 1960 and the main campus constructed in 1964. It has continuously evolved into a vibrant educational hub, constantly adapting to meet the evolving needs of its students and the regional economy.

The college is particularly celebrated for its robust Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, a cornerstone of its offerings. With an impressive 90% of these programs centrally located in a state-of-the-art facility, students gain hands-on experience in high-demand fields like Solar Technology, Logistics and Warehousing, Automotive and Diesel Technology, HVAC, and Welding. This practical approach, bolstered by a significant vocational program revamp in 2006 and a key partnership in 2010 to form the Center for Workforce and Economic Development, ensures graduates are well-prepared for immediate entry into critical careers.

Students at Barstow Community College enjoy a comprehensive campus experience, featuring modern instructional halls, a gym, athletic fields, a cafeteria, and a dynamic student center. Recent enhancements include the renovated Norman Smith Student Services Center, a 700-seat Performing Arts Center which opened in 2014, and a two-story Wellness Center that broke ground in 2011, complete with an indoor track. These state-of-the-art facilities underscore BCC's dedication to fostering both academic success and student well-being, making it an ideal environment for learning and personal growth for its 3,746 students.