Colorado Mountain College

Colorado Mountain College (CMC) is a vibrant public community college dedicated to helping students "Elevate Your Future" amidst the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Serving a diverse student body of 14,000, CMC is recognized for its commitment to accessible education and its recent designation in 2021 as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by the federal government, reflecting its rich and inclusive community.

The college's roots run deep in Colorado, established by local voters in 1965 across a wide district encompassing several counties. The first classes welcomed students in 1967 at its initial residential campuses in Leadville and Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs. Despite an early tragedy with its first president, the institution quickly expanded, offering courses in Summit County by 1972 and later reaching towns like Rifle, Salida, and Buena Vista, steadily growing its presence and impact across the mountain region.

Academically, CMC offers robust programs, backed by full accreditation received from the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges in 1974. A key academic strength is The Isaacson School for Communication, Arts, & Media, which opened in 2012 at the Spring Valley campus, providing specialized education in creative fields. With its wide geographical reach and continuous expansion, including new communities joining the district as recently as 2019, Colorado Mountain College ensures that a high-quality, engaging college experience is within reach for students looking to thrive in a unique and supportive environment.