College of the Desert
Palm Desert, California
About College of the Desert
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1961, College of the Desert is a 2-year college serving students in Palm Desert, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, College of the Desert prepares graduates for success in Humanities, Health Professions, Business, and more.
A Diverse Community in Palm Desert
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. With a 25:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
College of the Desert is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $10,791, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This commitment-based policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
College of the Desert emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for College of the Desert students
| First-year retention rate | 67% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $34,631 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $39,020 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at College of the Desert
| Total enrollment | 10,764 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 10,764 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 62% |
What you can study at College of the Desert
88 programs, most of them in these fields:
Business Management Marketing Support (7)
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping, Business Administration and Management, General, Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other, and more
Agriculture (6)
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations, Agriculture, General, Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General, and more
Health Professions (6)
Dietetic Technician, Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General, and more
Social Sciences (6)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geography, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (6)
Art/Art Studies, General, Cinematography and Film/Video Production, Commercial and Advertising Art, and more
Communication Journalism (5)
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia, Journalism, Mass Communication/Media Studies, and more
Computer Information Sciences (5)
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other, Computer Graphics, Computer Programming/Programmer, General, and more
Parks Recreation Leisure Fitness (5)
Golf Course Operation and Grounds Management, Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General, Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies, and more
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