College of the Desert

College of the Desert is one of over 115 community colleges in California and a vital part of the world’s largest system of higher education. The governing body of College of the Desert is the Desert Community College District, which has five elected members on its Board of Trustees and a Student Trustee elected by the Student Body.

The college was founded in 1958 and opened its doors for the first time in September 1962. As a two-year college, the College offers transfer students an affordable option for starting college and transferring to a four-year institution. College of the Desert is the number one source of transfer students to California State University at San Bernardino. College of the Desert also offers a number of popular vocational and technical programs, including Nursing and Health Sciences, Digital Design and Production, Turf Grass Management & Ornamental Horticulture, Advanced Transportation Technologies, Culinary Arts, and a full range of Administration of Justice courses at the Public Safety Academy training facility.

Mission

College of the Desert provides excellent educational programs in basic skills, career and technical education, certificate, transfer preparation, associate degrees, noncredit and distance education, which are continuously evaluated and improved. Our programs and services contribute to the success, learning and achievement of our diverse students and the vitality of the Desert Community College District, surrounding areas and beyond.

Vision

College of the Desert will be a center of collaborations and innovations for educational enrichment, economic development and quality of life in the Coachella Valley and surrounding communities.

Values:

College of the Desert is a learning-centered institution that values:

Student Success:

Student learning and growth are central to all we do.

Diversity and Inclusion:

We embrace the diversity of our community and uphold the dignity and worth of the individual.

Integrity:

We are open, honest and reliable.

Respect:

We value the thoughts, words, and actions of our students, colleagues, and community.

Dedication:

Our faculty, staff and administrators are responsible leaders who effectively implement programs in support of student learning and efficient college operations.

Professionalism:

We are current in our areas of expertise and embody high standards of conduct.

Communication:

We communicate with authenticity in pursuit of broad understanding, effective dialog, and inclusive decision-making.

Lifelong Learning:

Learning is essential to living, for our students, faculty and staff.