College of San Mateo

Established in 1922 as San Mateo Junior College, the College of San Mateo (CSM) has long been a vital "Gateway to Achievement," offering an accessible and affordable pathway to higher education. Founded by William L. Glascock as a cost-effective alternative to expensive four-year institutions like Stanford and Berkeley, CSM quickly became a beacon of learning, allowing students to live at home while earning credits equivalent to the freshman and sophomore years of a university.

Over its century-long history, CSM has continuously adapted to meet community needs. From its initial class of just 30 students, enrollment surged, necessitating expansion and the introduction of vocational and adult education programs, including a dedicated Adult Program with 500 sign-ups in its first week. The college played a unique role during World War II, shifting focus to servicemen's training and converting land into victory gardens. In 1954, it proudly adopted its current name, College of San Mateo, partially honoring the memory of former Dean Charles S. Morris.

Academically, CSM's strength lies in its comprehensive offerings, designed to prepare students for seamless transfer to top four-year universities or direct entry into skilled professions. Beyond traditional college courses, it hosts innovative high school programs like San Mateo Middle College and Jumpstart, enabling ambitious students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. Serving all residents of San Mateo County, CSM remains committed to fostering intellectual growth and providing diverse educational opportunities for its vibrant student body of 13,180.