Crafton Hills College (CHC) is a premier community college located in Yucaipa, California. Known for its scenic campus and high-quality academic programs, it serves as a vital educational hub for students in the Inland Empire. Whether you are looking to transfer to a four-year university or gain technical skills for a new career, Crafton Hills provides the resources and support needed to reach your goals.
As one of the two colleges in the San Bernardino Community College District, Crafton Hills has built a reputation for excellence in healthcare, public safety, and liberal arts. The college focuses on student success through small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you can expect when enrolling at Crafton Hills College.
Academic Programs and Degrees
Crafton Hills College offers a diverse array of academic pathways designed to meet the needs of various student populations. These programs are generally divided into transfer degrees and career technical education certificates.
The college provides Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees in dozens of fields. Many students choose the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) pathway, which guarantees admission to the California State University (CSU) system. Common majors include:
- Business Administration: Prepares students for roles in management, marketing, and finance.
- Psychology: Offers a foundation in human behavior and mental processes.
- Biological Sciences: Designed for students pursuing careers in medicine, research, or environmental science.
- Communication Studies: Focuses on public speaking, interpersonal communication, and media literacy.
For those looking to enter the workforce quickly, the college offers certificate programs. These programs focus on specific job skills and can often be completed in one year or less. Popular certificate areas include Child Development, Information Technology, and Multimedia Art.
Renowned Public Safety and Healthcare Programs
One of the most significant draws to Crafton Hills College is its exceptional reputation in public safety and healthcare training. These programs are highly competitive and produce some of the most skilled professionals in Southern California.
The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program is a cornerstone of the college. CHC offers one of the premier Paramedic programs in the state, featuring rigorous training and high certification pass rates. Students gain hands-on experience in simulated environments and clinical rotations.
The Fire Academy at Crafton Hills is equally prestigious. It provides comprehensive training for aspiring firefighters, covering fire suppression, hazardous materials, and rescue operations. The academy is recognized by the California State Fire Marshal.
In the healthcare sector, the Respiratory Care and Radiologic Technology programs are highly regarded. These programs combine classroom theory with intensive clinical practice at local hospitals. Graduates are well-prepared for national licensing exams and immediate employment in the medical field.
The Admissions Process
Starting your education at Crafton Hills College is a straightforward process. As a community college, it maintains an open-enrollment policy, meaning most students who apply are accepted. Follow these steps to get started:
- Submit an Application: Complete the online application through the OpenCCC website. There is no fee to apply to the college.
- Apply for Financial Aid: Fill out the FAFSA or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). This step is crucial for determining your eligibility for grants and fee waivers.
- Complete Orientation: New students must complete an orientation session. This provides essential information about campus policies, resources, and academic expectations.
- Placement and Counseling: Meet with an academic counselor to discuss your goals. They will help you create a Student Education Plan (SEP) to ensure you take the right classes for your major.
- Register for Classes: Once your registration date arrives, use the online student portal to select and enroll in your courses.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Crafton Hills College is an affordable option for higher education. California residents currently pay a low per-unit enrollment fee, which is significantly less than the cost of tuition at four-year universities. However, there are additional costs for books, supplies, and health fees.
To help manage these costs, the college offers several financial aid options. The California College Promise Grant (formerly known as the Board of Governors Fee Waiver) is available to many students and covers the cost of enrollment fees. This makes tuition effectively free for eligible residents.
The Crafton Hills College Foundation also provides numerous scholarships each year. These are based on academic achievement, financial need, and specific areas of study. Students are encouraged to apply for scholarships every spring semester.
Student Support Services
Crafton Hills College is committed to ensuring that every student has the tools they need to succeed. The campus offers a wide range of support services designed to remove barriers to education.
The Tutoring Center provides free assistance in subjects like math, English, and science. Students can work with peer tutors or faculty members to improve their understanding of course material. Additionally, the Writing Center helps students refine their essays and research papers.
Specialized programs like EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs and Services) and CARE provide extra support for students facing economic or educational challenges. These programs often offer book vouchers, priority registration, and dedicated counseling.
The DSPS (Disabled Student Programs and Services) office ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to all educational opportunities. This includes providing accommodations such as extended testing time, note-taking assistance, and specialized equipment.
Campus Life and Location
The physical environment of Crafton Hills College is one of its most unique features. Located on a hilltop overlooking the Yucaipa Valley, the campus offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for studying. The modern architecture and well-maintained grounds create a professional and welcoming collegiate environment.
Beyond academics, students can engage in various clubs and organizations. Whether you are interested in student government, honors societies, or interest-based clubs like the Gaming Club or the Biology Club, there are many ways to get involved. These activities help students build leadership skills and form lasting friendships.
The college also offers athletic programs and a fitness center. Staying active is encouraged as part of a balanced lifestyle. The campus features hiking trails and outdoor spaces that allow students to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area between classes.
Transferring to a University
For many students, Crafton Hills is a stepping stone to a Bachelor’s degree. The college has established strong transfer agreements with many institutions. By completing their lower-division general education and major requirements at CHC, students save thousands of dollars on tuition.
The Transfer Center is a valuable resource for those planning to move on to a four-year school. It hosts workshops on application essays, organizes campus tours, and brings university representatives to the CHC campus. Students can also utilize Transfer Admission Guarantees (TAG) with several University of California (UC) campuses.
By following a clear transfer plan, students can ensure that their credits will move with them. This seamless transition allows graduates to enter a university as a junior, ready to complete their upper-division coursework in their chosen field.
Conclusion
Crafton Hills College offers a high-quality, affordable education in a supportive and beautiful environment. From its top-tier emergency services programs to its robust transfer pathways, the college provides clear routes to both career success and further academic achievement. By taking advantage of the counseling, financial aid, and tutoring services available, you can build a strong foundation for your future.
If you are ready to take the next step in your educational journey, visit the Crafton Hills College website to begin your application. For more information on navigating college life and career planning, explore our other helpful articles on SearchAndHelp.com.