Riverside City College

Riverside City College (RCC) stands as a cornerstone of education in Southern California, boasting a rich history that spans over a century. Since its founding in 1916, RCC has evolved into a vibrant public community college dedicated to empowering a diverse student body. With over 20,000 students, it provides critical pathways for academic and career advancement, whether students aim to transfer to a four-year university, earn an associate degree, or gain valuable career certificates.

Originally known as Riverside Junior College, the institution opened its doors alongside Riverside Polytechnic High School. Its growth was swift, expanding from the high school campus to construct its own foundational buildings by 1924. While its name saw a brief change to Riverside Community College in the mid-1980s, it proudly reverted to Riverside City College in 2008, solidifying its identity within the greater Riverside Community College District. The college assumed full control of its Magnolia property in 1965, marking a significant step in its independence and expansion.

RCC is renowned for its robust programs across liberal arts, science, athletics, performing arts, and vocational education. A major highlight is the Henry W. Coil Sr. and Alice Edna Coil School for the Arts, opened in 2016, a state-of-the-art facility fostering talent in music performance, education, and industry. Home to the internationally acclaimed RCC Chamber Singers and the award-winning RCC Marching Tigers band – a consistent recipient of Winter Guard International awards and a performer at the Tournament of Roses Parade – RCC offers an exceptional creative environment. Beyond the arts, the college is a hub for specialized training, including its dedicated School for Nursing, and offers unique programs like Gateway to College for adults returning to high school.