Since opening in 1965, Community College of Philadelphia has welcomed more than 700,000 students, making it the largest higher education institution in the city. Students come for associate degrees, certificates, to advance current skills or to continue lifelong learning. More than 90% of graduates stay in the area to work and live, making our local economy even stronger.

Many studnts who come for associate degrees continue their education by transferring to a four-year college or university. Students interested in taking the next step to a four-year school can enroll in dual admission and transfer programs.

Counselors and advisors are available to help you explore future options or to provide you with more information about available programs. To take full advantage of these opportunities, it is important to speak with an advisor early in your academic program.

At Community College of Philadelphia, our ultimate goal is to help students find their path to career success. Our programs provide a guided pathway to the most sought-after careers in health care; science and technology: design: construction and transportation; the creative arts; business, entrepreneurship and law; liberal arts and communications; and education and human services. Flexible schedules can be made with classes during the day, evening and on Saturdays at the Main Campus or the three Regional Centers located throughout the city—Northeast, West, and the Career and Advanced Technology Center (CATC). Online and hybrid classes are also available.

Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and develop leadership skills. As more than 30 clubs and organizations are continuously evolving at the College, students always have opportunities to learn, socialize and grow their résumés.

The Athletics Center is just next door to the Winnet Student Life Building, and offers a variety of fall, winter and spring sports, both intercollegiate and intramural. The full-court gym, weight room, aerobics facilities and racquetball courts are open for student use. Usage is subject to change depending on circumstances.

Community College of Philadelphia students are diverse and come from dozens of cultural backgrounds across 60 countries with a range of ages and educational goals. As our mission states, the College values the inclusion of all backgrounds and proudly supports our diverse student population.

GUIDED PATHWAYS AT THE COLLEGE

As part of Community College of Philadelphia’s uncompromising focus on student success, the College has implemented Guided Pathways . Guided Pathways provides students with a clear, supportive, and structured experience designed to help them choose a program that fits with their goals, stay on track, and successfully complete their degree or certificate.  The following highlights how Guided Pathways support students at every stage of their college journey.

Academic Pathways

Community College of Philadelphia offers seven Academic Pathways that group programs together by shared courses, career interests, and transfer opportunities.  The seven Academic Pathways include: Health Care; Science and Technology; Design, Construction and Transportation; Business, Entrepreneurship and Law; Creative Arts; Liberal Arts and Communications; and Education and Human Services. Each Pathway connects students with faculty, advisors, and support staff who work together to help students explore their interests, plan their courses, and connect learning to future careers.

Program Maps

Prospective and current students can now access detailed program maps for every major. Program maps include the courses students should take each semester, along with a success checklist and notes about career and transfer options. By following their program map, students can stay organized, make informed decisions, and clearly see the steps needed to achieve their academic and career goals.

Academic Advising

Through Guided Pathways, every student is assigned a dedicated Academic Advisor based on their program of study. Academic Advisors serve as a point of contact who help students create and update their educational plans, choose classes, and connect with campus resources to stay on track towards graduation and transfer.

Accelerated and Supportive Learning Options

Some students may need extra support in English, ESL, or Math before feeling fully ready for college-level courses. At CCP, students do not have to take a separate remedial class first. Instead, through programs like the Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) and the Co-Requisite Seminar Program (CSP), students can take college-level courses and a support class at the same time. The support class gives students additional practice and guidance to help them strengthen their skills, build confidence, and make faster progress toward completing their degree. 

First-Year Experience (FYE) Courses

Many programs include a First-Year Experience (FYE) course designed to help students start strong. In these courses—such as AH 101 for Allied Health, FYE 101 for Liberal Arts, and BUSL 101 for Business—students create their own academic, career, and financial plans while learning how to navigate college life. Taking an FYE course within the first 12 credits helps students build a strong foundation for success.

Staying Connected with Starfish

CCP uses an online tool called Starfish to help students stay connected and supported. Through Starfish, instructors and advisors can send messages of encouragement (“kudos”) or offer help (“flags” and referrals) when students need extra support. Students can also use Starfish to schedule appointments with their advisors and access important resources—all in one place.

New Student Orientation and Onboarding

Before the first semester, new students complete CCP’s online orientation, which covers important topics such as registration, financial aid, and available resources. Students also attend a group registration event led by Academic Advisors, where they meet with their assigned advisor, build their first semester schedule, and learn about their Academic Pathway.

Placement and Assessment

CCP’s placement process helps students start in the right English and math courses for their skill level. Most students are placed based on their high school grades and coursework rather than a placement test, allowing them to begin college-level classes sooner and earn credits right away. Students who may need extra preparation can take support or co-requisite courses that build skills awhile keeping them on track toward their degree. Overall, CCP’s placement and assessment approach ensures that students begin their academic journey at a level that matches their skills, builds confidence, and supports their long-term success.

More information on Guided Pathways at the College is available online at myccp.online/implementing-guided-pathways. For more information on programs of study, career, employment and transfer opportunities, go to ccp.edu/academic- offerings/all-offerings.