Orange Coast College
Costa Mesa, California
About Orange Coast College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1947, Orange Coast College is a 2-year college serving students in Costa Mesa, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, Orange Coast College prepares graduates for success in Humanities, Business, Computer Science, and more.
A Diverse Community in Costa Mesa
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 26:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Orange Coast College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $3,105, 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
Orange Coast 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 Orange Coast College students
| First-year retention rate | 73% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $41,273 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $47,348 |
| Median debt at graduation | $9,500 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Orange Coast College
| Total enrollment | 17,085 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 17,085 |
| International students | 5% |
| First-generation students | 51% |
What you can study at Orange Coast College
90 programs, most of them in these fields:
Health Professions (14)
Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist, Cardiovascular Technology/Technologist, Community Health and Preventive Medicine, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (11)
Accounting, Apparel and Textile Marketing Management, Business Administration and Management, General, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (10)
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects, Cinematography and Film/Video Production, Commercial and Advertising Art, and more
Social Sciences (5)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geography, and more
Aviation (4)
Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician, Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician, Airline Flight Attendant, and more
Communication Journalism (4)
Journalism, Mass Communication/Media Studies, Radio and Television, and more
Family and Consumer Sciences (4)
Apparel and Textile Manufacture, Child Care and Support Services Management, Fashion/Apparel Design, and more
Physical Sciences (4)
Astronomy, Chemistry, General, Geology/Earth Science, General, and more
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