Mesa Community College logo

Mesa Community College

Mesa, AZ

publicassociates

Quick Facts

1965
Founded
Public community college
Type
12,049
Total Students
$2K
Tuition (In-State)
$9K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Richard Daniel Ph.D.

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

About Mesa Community College

Mesa Community College: Building futures since 1963 with diverse programs and a growing campus.

Mesa Community College (MCC) began its journey in 1963 as a vital extension of Phoenix College, swiftly growing into an independent institution by 1965. From its humble beginnings with 330 students on Main Street, MCC has evolved into a comprehensive educational hub, expanding across a sprawling campus at Dobson and Southern Roads and later establishing the Red Mountain Campus. It stands as a testament to accessible higher education, continually adapting its facilities and offerings to meet the dynamic needs of its community.

Students at MCC discover a wide array of academic pathways, supported by a rich history of facility development. Early campus expansion brought dedicated buildings for science, nursing, technology, business education, and liberal arts, signaling a commitment to a diverse curriculum. The continuous addition of state-of-the-art facilities, including a health improvement center, the Paul A. Elsner Library, and a new life science building, ensures that students have access to modern learning environments. This robust infrastructure fosters an engaging atmosphere where learning thrives across various disciplines.

Beyond academics, MCC provides a vibrant student experience. From the early adoption of the "Hokams" as their athletic nickname, later evolving to the formidable "Thunderbirds," the college has always fostered a sense of community and pride. Expansions like the Kirk Student Center underscore MCC's dedication to student life outside the classroom. Whether pursuing a degree, technical certification, or foundational courses, students become part of a legacy of growth and opportunity, preparing them for successful careers or further academic pursuits.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1963 as an extension of Phoenix College with 330 inaugural students.
  • Achieved independent institution status in 1965, separating from Phoenix College.
  • Purchased 120 acres for its main campus in 1964, demonstrating early vision for expansion.
  • Opened its Red Mountain Campus in 2000, significantly expanding its reach and offerings.
  • Hosted then-President George W. Bush in 2004, highlighting its role in national discussions on job training.
  • Features extensive facilities including dedicated buildings for science, nursing, technology, and a modern library.
  • Mascot evolved from "Hokams" to "Thunderbirds," fostering a strong and enduring college spirit.

Timeline

1963
Launched as an extension branch of Phoenix College with 330 students.
1964
Students voted 'Hokams' as the nickname for athletic teams; 120 acres purchased for a new campus.
1965
Named Mesa Community College, a separate institution from Phoenix College.
1968
Graduated its first class on the new campus.
1974
MCC's mascot changed from Hokam to Thunderbird.
1987
Bar code technology introduced to the library's automation system and student ID cards.
1999
The new Paul A. Elsner Library and a new life science building opened.
2000
Phase I construction began for the Red Mountain Campus.
2004
Visited by then-President George W. Bush to discuss federal grant proposals.
2016
A new art museum was added to the main campus.
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Richard Daniel Ph.D.
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Mesa Community College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search