CCCS Internal Colorado’s largest system of higher education
About CCCS
To a Better Life, Successful Careers, and the Pursuit of Happiness
We are the largest higher education system in Colorado. We offer low to no-cost education and training that connects to careers for everyone.
The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) has 13 unique colleges and more than 35 locations across the state. We educate 130,000 students every year.
Our mission is to create a learning environment that is accessible and responsive. Here, students can achieve their educational, professional, and personal goals. We embrace academic excellence, diversity, and innovation.
We focus on the whole student. We form lasting relationships. We create education opportunities without barriers. We always look for ways to expand opportunities for our students.
Our Story
Cultivating a Community of Learning since 1925
We have been committed to providing accessible and affordable education since our inception in 1925. Today, CCCS includes 13 colleges and more than 35 locations, serving over 130,000 students annually.
We’re Building a Stronger Economy
The economic impact of the CCCS is $5.8 billion annually, which is roughly equal to the creation of 98,100 jobs.
Students receive an average annual rate of return of 14.8% per year, after adjusting for inflation, from their investments in their education at one of our 13 colleges.
For every $1.00 a student invests at our colleges, they receive $4.30 more in lifetime earnings. State and local governments receive a rate of return on their investment in CCCS of 13.5% per year after adjusting for inflation.
Our History
Going back to 1925, Colorado’s community colleges have played a vital role throughout much of the state’s history.
System Chancellor
Chancellor DeSanctis leads the state’s largest system of higher education. 39% of undergraduate students in Colorado attend CCCS colleges.
CCCS Board
CCCS is governed by a 12-member board — 10 of whom are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate.
Get to know CCCS
Building Colorado’s Talent, One Learner at a Time
From the learners we serve to the industries we strengthen—our 2025-2026 viewbook highlights the collective impact of Colorado’s community colleges.
Be an Advocate for Community Education
Your advocacy helps us provide accessible, high-quality education to over 130,000 students each year. By promoting our mission, you contribute to creating opportunities and transforming lives across Colorado.
Latest News
CCCS Day at the Capitol Highlights Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) convened its annual Day at the Capitol on January 28, 2026. While the agenda
CCCS Welcomes John Albright as Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Strategy Officer
The Colorado Community College System is pleased to announce that John Albright will join CCCS as Executive Vice Chancellor and
Honoring a Leader Who Lights the Way
The Colorado Community College System’s Day at the Capitol on January 28 served as a reminder to the staff and
