Lifetime learning in the Tri-Cities is a goal for many and there are several opportunities to further your education without leaving the Columbia Basin. Students can find a quality education at a local community college, attend a career-based college, seek all levels of degrees at a local university, or even grow through attending a private, faith-based college. Of course, whatever your education and career goals are, there are institutions in the immediate area to serve those needs.
Columbia Basin College
For students seeking associate degrees, Columbia Basin College, located at 2600 N. 20th Avenue in Pasco, offers over 100 programs and degrees. The average class size is 16.5 and the tuition at $4200.00 per year is affordable. Students attending CBC received 18 million in financial aid last year. CBC has schools of Arts, Humanities & Communication, Business, Career & Technical Education, Computer Science, Education, Health Sciences, Math, Science & Engineering, and Social & Behavioral Sciences. Similarly, some schools offer Bachelor of Applied Science degrees at a school that offers a plethora of associate degrees. CBC often works hand in hand with our local businesses to prepare students for careers in high demand fields. For example, the Nuclear Technology program that provides various Hanford contractors with employees is well-prepared to take on the demands of work within the nuclear field of employment.
Charter College
Charter College, located at 4278 Outlet Dr. in Pasco provides career focused educational programs. They offer programs like dental assisting and medical assistant certificates, but also have HVAC and other trades training opportunities. Charter College’s trainings focus on business, health care, information technology, and the trades. Furthermore, many of their programs are accessible fully online. The goal of Charter College is to enhance the careers prospects of its graduates. Charter College’s tuition is higher than that of CBC, but access to excellent employment opportunities is strong upon completion of the many programs offered.
Gather 4 Him
If your student is seeking a private, faith-based college experience, he doesn’t have to study in Seattle or Portland; he can attend Gather 4 Him for a two-year, accredited college experience. Gather 4 Him is located at 3021 W. Clearwater Ave. in Kennewick. The tuition is $11,000 per year. Furthermore, the program offers a two-year Associate of Arts Degree in Biblical Studies. Some students transfer to universities like George Fox after earning the AA.
WSU Tri Cities
In the north end of Richland, at 2710 Crimson Way and sitting along the Columbia River is Washington State University Tri-Cities. It is one of six campuses that comprise the WSU system. This university offers 20 baccalaureate degrees, 17 master’s and 14 doctor degree program. Additionally, in-state tuition for undergraduate study is approximately $10,000 per year. This institution has its roots in graduate programs and was a joint university for many years, with professors coming from three large research universities to provide graduate level education for professionals who worked at the Hanford complex. Of course, the need for affordable living was met in new apartments next to the campus that are marketed towards college students. Also, they have a great view! From classrooms, to offices, to apartments, the views of the Columbia River are phenomenal.
There is no shortage of educational opportunities for all types of careers in the Tri-Cities. Admissions counselors at the aforementioned institutes are ready to take your questions.
