College of the Desert

Welcome to College of the Desert (COD), the vibrant heart of community-focused education in California's stunning Coachella Valley. Established in 1958, COD has grown into a dynamic public community college serving over 12,453 students with its inspiring motto, "I Am COD." Here, you'll discover an engaging and supportive environment dedicated to your academic and personal growth, preparing you for a successful future.

COD's rich history began with a vision for accessible higher education in the valley, leading to voter-approved funding and the opening of its Palm Desert campus in 1962, quickly achieving accreditation by 1966. This strong foundation has been continuously built upon, with significant facilities like the Jeane and Justin Hilb student center, Carol L. Meier Lecture Hall, and the Bob and "Mike" Pollock Theatre One enhancing the student experience and campus life. The expansion continued with the Marks Center for the Arts, demonstrating a deep commitment to cultural enrichment.

Academically, COD stands out with its unique offerings and community integration. It proudly hosts California's only college library shared collaboratively with both the City of Palm Desert and Riverside County, providing unparalleled resources to its students. Furthermore, the Eastern Valley Center in Indio addresses diverse educational needs with specialized courses such as Mexican American Culture and Introduction to African American Literature, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive curriculum that reflects the vibrant community it serves. COD is more than a college; it's a cornerstone of the Coachella Valley, fostering knowledge and opportunity for all.