Chattanooga State Community College logo

Chattanooga State Community College

Chattanooga, TN

publicassociates

Quick Facts

A National Leader in Technology

1965
Founded
Public community college
Type
4,689
Total Students
10,121
Undergrad
$5K
Tuition (In-State)
$18K
Tuition (Out-State)
$6K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Rebecca Ashford

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Chattanooga State Community College

Tennessee's pioneering technical college, driving innovation and industry partnerships since 1965.

Chattanooga State Community College stands as a dynamic institution renowned for its cutting-edge technical education and robust ties to industry. Since its inception in 1965, it has been recognized as a "National Leader in Technology," offering diverse pathways to success through its comprehensive programs. Notably, it holds the distinction of being Tennessee's first technical college and Southeast Tennessee's first public institution of higher education, continually evolving to meet the demands of a changing workforce.

The college's history is a testament to its commitment to innovation and adaptation. Originally founded as Chattanooga State Technical Institute with a mission to bridge the gap between engineers and craftsmen, it expanded its scope to become Chattanooga State Technical Community College. This evolution included providing comprehensive occupational, college parallel, continuing education, and community service programs. A pivotal moment was its unique merger in 1983 with the State Area Vocational-Technical School, which broadened its offerings to include valuable one-year certificates in fields like industrial electronics and automotive technology, creating a truly distinctive educational model.

Chattanooga State is deeply committed to its community and its students. It boasts significant partnerships, such as the groundbreaking Volkswagen Academy, the only such training collaboration across Volkswagen's global plants. The college also houses the Center for Business, Industry, and Health Professions and supports local start-ups through its Business and Community Development Center. Beyond traditional students, it offers specialized programs like Plaza Communitaria for Hispanic immigrants, AHEAD for displaced workers, and Middle College/Early College for ambitious high school students, ensuring diverse educational opportunities for all. The presence of the Hamilton County STEM High School on campus further solidifies its commitment to fostering future innovators.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1965 as Tennessee's first technical college and Southeast Tennessee's first public higher education institution.
  • Hosts the Volkswagen Academy, a unique training partnership with Volkswagen, the only one of its kind globally.
  • Offers comprehensive one and two-year occupational programs, as well as one-year vocational certificates.
  • Serves six Tennessee counties (Hamilton, Rhea, Bledsoe, Sequatchie, Marion, Grundy) and border counties in Georgia.
  • Campus includes the 59,000 sq ft Center for Business, Industry, and Health Professions, on 40 additional acres acquired in 2006.
  • Home to the Hamilton County Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) High School.
  • Provides specialized educational programs for diverse populations, including Hispanic immigrants, displaced workers, and high school students.

Timeline

1965
Founded as Chattanooga State Technical Institute, Tennessee's first technical college.
1973
Renamed Chattanooga State Technical Community College, expanding its mission.
1974
Became part of the State Community College and University System (later TN Board of Regents).
1981
Entered into a pilot merger with the State Area Vocational-Technical School (now TCAT).
1983
Tennessee legislature officially recognized the unique merger of vocational and career programs.
2006
Acquired Olan Mills headquarters, creating the Center for Business, Industry, and Health Professions.
2009
Renamed Chattanooga State Community College; established the groundbreaking Volkswagen Academy.
2012
The Hamilton County STEM High School opened on the Chattanooga State campus.
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Chattanooga State Community College

🏫

Hamilton County STEM High School

A campus-based high school, opened in 2012, focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math in cooperation with Chattanooga State.

Leadership

Rebecca Ashford
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Chattanooga State Community College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search