Which Colleges Offer a 2-year Bachelor’s Degree Program in the U.S?

The U.S. community colleges offer two-year associate degree programs. These colleges provide accessible and affordable education, serving as gateways for students to transfer to four-year universities or enter the workforce. The document lists five community colleges known for their programs: Palomar College, Foothill College, Pasadena City College, Kapiʻolani Community College, and De Anza College. It highlights the benefits of choosing a two-year program, such as cost-effectiveness and personalized academic support.

Sneha Singh
Jun 18, 2025, 06:00 EDT
Colleges that offer 2-year degree programs

Colleges that offer 2-year degree programs

In today’s dynamic landscape of higher education, U.S. community colleges are acting as essential gateways to more opportunities. More than 1,100 U.S. community colleges enroll nearly 13 million students every year, offering accessible, affordable, and flexible two-year degree programs. Its open-admission policies and low tuition costs make it an effective choice for many students from diverse backgrounds. The program offers basic foundational knowledge to every scholar, helping them to either transfer to a four-year university or enter the workforce directly.

Check out: Which is the Richest University in the USA?

List of Colleges That Offer a 2-Year Bachelor’s Degree Program in the U.S

So, if you are also trying to seek admission in any such college for further studies, you are at the right place, as we are offering you a list of prominent U.S. community colleges that are known for their robust two-year associate degree programs:

1. Palomar College, San Diego County, California

Palomar College offers over 250 associate degrees and certificate programs with its main campus in San Marcos. Students benefit from this institution as transfer pathways to the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) campuses. Its programs include around five academic divisions, i.e., Arts, Business, Sciences, and Technical Education.

2.  Foothill College, Los Altos Hills, California

In the De Anza District, Foothill College was founded in 1957 and offers around 84 associate degree programs, 124 certification courses, and 2 bachelor's degrees. It is recognized for its innovative programs in health sciences, engineering, and digital media. 

foothill college

3. Pasadena City College, California

Founded in 1924 as Pasadena Junior College, Pasadena City College (PCC) is located in Pasadena, California. Initially operating as an extension of the local high school, it evolved into a full-fledged community college by 1953. PCC offers a wide range of associate degrees and certificates, supporting transfer to top universities and preparation for skilled careers.

4. Kapiʻolani Community College, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi

Formerly a technical school for food service, Kapiʻolani Community College is now a part of the University of Hawaiʻi system. Since 1965, it has provided accredited associate degrees in hospitality, culinary arts, healthcare, and liberal studies. It plays a vital role in workforce development across Hawaiʻi.

5. De Anza College, Cupertino, California

Situated in Silicon Valley, De Anza College is part of the Foothill-De Anza Community College District. Named after Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza, the college offers excellent programs in business, technology, health, and liberal arts. Its proximity to tech giants makes it a top choice for students seeking practical, tech-aligned education.

Why Choose a Two-Year Program?

Now, here’s the answer to why one should enroll in these colleges. So, these two-year associate degrees offer students a cost-effective, time-efficient pathway to either start working or transfer into a four-year degree. Many students even use these institutions as basic stepping stones to complete a bachelor’s degree, and as a more cost-effective option while receiving personalized academic support.

Conclusion

Whether you're a recent high school graduate, working professional, or international student, U.S. community colleges offer quality education as per your future goals.

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Sneha Singh
Sneha Singh

Content Writer

    Sneha Singh is a US News Content Writer at Jagran Josh, covering major developments in international policies and global affairs. She holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Lucknow Campus. With over six months of experience as a Sub Editor at News24 Digital, Sneha brings sharp news judgment, SEO expertise and a passion for impactful storytelling.

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