Merritt College
Oakland, California
About Merritt College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1953, Merritt College is a 2-year college serving students in Oakland, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, Merritt College prepares graduates for success in Family & Consumer Science, Health Professions, Social Sciences, and more.
A Diverse Community in Oakland
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. With a 29:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Merritt College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $14,035, 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
Merritt College 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 Merritt College students
| First-year retention rate | 51% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $37,955 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $44,392 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Merritt College
| Total enrollment | 6,716 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 6,716 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 55% |
What you can study at Merritt College
44 programs, most of them in these fields:
Business Management Marketing Support (6)
Accounting, Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping, Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General, and more
Health Professions (5)
Dietetic Technician, Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training, and more
Social Sciences (4)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Social Sciences, General, and more
Computer Information Sciences (3)
Computer Programming/Programmer, General, Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, Information Technology
Human Services (3)
Child Care Provider/Assistant, Human Services, General, Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling
Liberal Arts and Sciences (3)
Humanities/Humanistic Studies, Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other, Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
Natural Resources and Conservation (3)
Environmental Studies, Hazardous Materials Management and Waste Technology/Technician, Landscaping and Groundskeeping
Area Ethnic Cultural Gender Group Studies (2)
Ethnic Studies, Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other
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