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Jefferson State Community College

Birmingham, AL

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Quick Facts

1965
Founded
Community college
Type
5,443
Total Students
$5K
Tuition (In-State)
$9K
Tuition (Out-State)
$9K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Keith Brown

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

About Jefferson State Community College

Jefferson State: A dynamic community college expanding access and opportunity across Alabama.

Jefferson State Community College stands as a cornerstone of accessible education in Alabama, serving over 8,512 students with a commitment to fostering community growth and individual success. As a vital community college, it provides diverse academic and vocational pathways, preparing students for university transfer, immediate career entry, and continuous professional development across multiple convenient locations.

The college’s journey began on May 3, 1963, when it was established by a legislative act as Jefferson State Junior College, welcoming its first cohort of students in September 1965. This foundational period laid the groundwork for its evolution, culminating in its official redesignation as Jefferson State Community College on February 23, 1989. This change reflected its broadening mission and expanding educational offerings, moving beyond traditional junior college roles to encompass a comprehensive community focus.

With its original 274-acre campus in Center Point, Jefferson State has strategically expanded its footprint to serve a wider populace. Key expansions include a significant branch campus in Shelby County, established in 1993 and designated a full branch by 1996, which continues to grow with additions like a new manufacturing center. Further outreach led to centers in St. Clair County (Moody and Pell City) and Chilton County (Clanton), demonstrating an unwavering dedication to bringing quality education directly to the communities it serves, ensuring a vibrant and supportive learning environment for all its students.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1963 by legislative act, evolving into Jefferson State Community College by 1989.
  • Serves over 8,512 students, providing broad access to higher education and workforce development.
  • Operates across a comprehensive network including its main 274-acre Center Point campus, a 60-acre Shelby Campus, and additional centers in Moody, Pell City, and Clanton.
  • Significantly expanded its service area to include Shelby, St. Clair, and Chilton counties, reflecting a commitment to regional educational access.
  • Investing in modern facilities, including the ongoing development of a new manufacturing center at the Shelby Campus.
  • Led by President Keith Brown, continuing a legacy of community-focused educational leadership.

Timeline

1963
Jefferson State Junior College established by an act of the State Legislature.
1965
First students enrolled at Jeff State.
1989
Name officially changed to Jefferson State Community College.
1993
Opened an extension center in Shelby County, Alabama.
1996
Shelby Center designated a branch campus by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.
2003
Service area revised to include western St. Clair County; classes began in Moody, Alabama.
2004
Approved instructional site in Pell City, Alabama; classes started there.
2008
Opened new center in Clanton, Alabama, expanding service to Chilton County.
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Keith Brown
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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