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GateWay Community College

Phoenix, AZ

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Quick Facts

3,473
Total Students
$2K
Tuition (In-State)
$9K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
20%
Graduation Rate
6-year
61%
Retention Rate
Associate's Colleges
Classification

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

About GateWay Community College

GateWay: Arizona's first technical college, focused on career-ready education and light rail access.

GateWay Community College in Phoenix, Arizona, stands out as a foundational institution for career-focused education. Established in 1968, it holds the distinction of being Arizona's very first technical college, setting a precedent for practical, skill-based learning. As one of the ten regionally accredited colleges within the Maricopa County Community College District, GateWay is deeply integrated into the state's educational landscape, known for its commitment to preparing students for immediate workforce entry and continued academic success.

Prospective students will find a wide array of programs designed to equip them with real-world skills. In 2016, the former Maricopa Skill Center was integrated as GateWay's Trade and Technical Training Division, significantly expanding its offerings in various trades and technical fields. The college is uniquely accessible, boasting an on-campus Valley Metro Light Rail stop – a convenience unrivaled among Maricopa Community Colleges. Additionally, the presence of GateWay Early College High School on campus allows motivated high school students to earn college credits, potentially even an associate degree, before graduation.

With a motto of "Education that works, so you learn more, live better," GateWay emphasizes tangible outcomes and professional readiness. Its roots as Maricopa Technical College in downtown Phoenix highlight its enduring dedication to technical education. Over the years, the campus has expanded to include specialized centers like the Automotive Center (1989) and the Center for Health Careers Education (1999), demonstrating continuous investment in key career pathways. Students at GateWay, affectionately known as the Geckos, benefit from a vibrant urban campus environment and strong academic support, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a direct path to a rewarding career.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Arizona's First Technical College: Established in 1968 as Maricopa Technical College, pioneering technical education in the state.
  • ✦Maricopa Community College District Member: One of ten regionally accredited colleges within the district.
  • ✦Unrivaled Light Rail Access: The only Maricopa Community College with a Valley Metro Light Rail stop directly on campus.
  • ✦Comprehensive Trade and Technical Training: Incorporated the Maricopa Skill Center in 2016 to expand its specialized trade programs.
  • ✦Early College Opportunity: Hosts GateWay Early College High School, enabling students to earn college credits and degrees concurrently.
  • ✦Specialized Career Centers: Features dedicated facilities such as the Automotive Center (1989) and Center for Health Careers Education (1999).
  • ✦Commitment to Practical Learning: Guided by the motto "Education that works, so you learn more, live better."

Timeline

1968
Established as Maricopa Technical College, becoming Arizona's first technical college.
1971
Received NCA accreditation on July 30.
1987
Maricopa Technical College officially became GateWay Community College on May 1.
1989
The Automotive Center was added to the campus.
1997
GateWay Early College High School (GWECHS) received its NCA accreditation on April 1.
1998
The Children's Learning Center and Central Plant were added to the campus.
1999
The Center for Health Careers Education was added.
2008
The first GWECHS class graduated in May.
2016
The Maricopa Skill Center was rebranded as the Trade and Technical Training Division of GateWay.

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within GateWay Community College

🏫

Trade and Technical Training Division

Formed in 2016 through the rebranding of the Maricopa Skill Center, offering extensive programs in various trades and technical fields.

📚

Center for Health Careers Education

Established in 1999, focusing on specialized training for a wide range of health-related professions.

🏫

Automotive Center

Added to the campus in 1989, providing specialized education and hands-on training for automotive careers.

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