Columbia Basin College

Columbia Basin College (CBC) stands as a cornerstone of education and community development in Washington's Benton and Franklin counties. Since its inception, CBC has been dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality learning opportunities, evolving from humble beginnings into a comprehensive public community college known for its robust career and technical education programs and growing offering of Bachelor of Applied Science degrees.

Founded in 1955, CBC's journey began with classes at the former Pasco Naval Airbase. Its rapid growth led to the completion of the first permanent campus building in 1957. A significant milestone occurred in 1967 with the Community College Act, which officially separated CBC from the Pasco School District, establishing it as the 19th community college district in the state. This autonomy paved the way for strategic expansion and innovation, continually adapting to the needs of its students and the local economy.

Today, CBC is a thriving institution serving over 11,243 students. Its academic strengths are deeply rooted in practical, career-focused learning, highlighted by modern facilities like the Center for Career and Technical Education (CTE), which replaced its original permanent building. With a dedicated faculty of 140 full-time and 300 part-time instructors, CBC is committed to fostering a supportive and engaging environment where students can pursue diverse pathways, from foundational courses to specialized Bachelor's degrees, preparing them for successful futures and immediate impact in their chosen fields.