Berkshire Community College

Berkshire Community College (BCC) holds a distinguished place in Massachusetts' educational landscape as the very first publicly funded community college in the state, opening its doors on September 15, 1960. From an initial class of just 153 students, BCC rapidly grew, demonstrating its vital role in accessible higher education and serving a broad student body that swelled to over 1,200 within its first eleven years.

Today, BCC continues its legacy of innovation and commitment to student success. Its main campus in Pittsfield, established in 1972, is complemented by the South County Center in Great Barrington, ensuring educational opportunities are accessible throughout the Berkshire region. Academic strengths at BCC are diverse, encompassing associate degrees, and through a significant partnership with Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), students can also pursue baccalaureate and even MBA programs at their joint satellite campus in downtown Pittsfield.

Beyond traditional coursework, BCC has consistently embraced evolving learning methods, from early "teleclassroom" courses to comprehensive online offerings. A standout feature is the Berkshire Institute of Lifelong Learning, affiliated with the nationwide Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes, which uniquely serves adult learners. This program, one of only four in the nation affiliated with a two-year college, received a substantial $1 million endowment, reflecting its enduring value and robust offerings. Prospective students and families will find BCC to be a dynamic institution dedicated to providing foundational education, career advancement, and lifelong learning opportunities in a supportive environment.