Palomar College
San Marcos, California
About Palomar College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1946, Palomar College is a 2-year college serving students in San Marcos, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, Palomar College prepares graduates for success in Humanities, Business, Health Professions, and more.
A Diverse Community in San Marcos
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. With a 24:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Palomar College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $4,065, 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
Palomar 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 Palomar College students
| First-year retention rate | 71% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $38,991 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $42,300 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Palomar College
| Total enrollment | 18,815 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 18,815 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 54% |
What you can study at Palomar College
103 programs, most of them in these fields:
Visual and Performing Arts (16)
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects, Art/Art Studies, General, Ceramic Arts and Ceramics, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (9)
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping, Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General, Advertising, and more
Social Sciences (7)
Anthropology, General, Archeology, Economics, General, and more
Construction Trades (6)
Building/Home/Construction Inspection/Inspector, Carpentry/Carpenter, Construction Trades, Other, and more
Foreign Languages (6)
American Sign Language (ASL), Foreign Languages and Literatures, General, French Language and Literature, and more
Computer Information Sciences (5)
Computer Graphics, Computer Programming/Programmer, General, Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, and more
Health Professions (5)
Dental Assisting/Assistant, Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic), Exercise Science and Kinesiology, and more
Communication Journalism (4)
Broadcast Journalism, Journalism, Radio and Television, and more
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