Pima Community College vs Carrington College-Tucson

Frequently Asked Questions

• What types of programs does each college offer?

  Pima Community College offers a wide range of associate degrees, certificates, and workforce development programs, covering areas like liberal arts, sciences, technology, healthcare, and business. Carrington College-Tucson primarily focuses on career-specific programs in healthcare, such as medical assisting, dental assisting, and veterinary assisting, along with some programs in trades.

• What is the typical length of programs at Pima Community College versus Carrington College-Tucson?

  At Pima Community College, associate degree programs typically take two years to complete, while certificate programs can range from a few months to a year. Carrington College-Tucson's programs are generally shorter and more intensive, often designed to be completed in a year or less, focusing on rapid entry into the workforce.

• How do the tuition costs compare between Pima Community College and Carrington College-Tucson?

  Pima Community College generally has significantly lower tuition costs compared to Carrington College-Tucson. As a community college, Pima offers more affordable tuition rates, especially for in-state residents. Carrington College-Tucson, being a private institution, typically has higher tuition rates, reflecting its specialized program offerings and accelerated learning format.

• What are the admission requirements for each college?

  Pima Community College has open enrollment, meaning most students with a high school diploma or GED are eligible for admission. Carrington College-Tucson has more selective admission requirements, which may include an application, high school diploma or GED, entrance exam, and an interview. Specific program requirements may also apply.

• What kind of student support services are available at each institution?

  Both colleges offer student support services, but they may differ in scope. Pima Community College provides a comprehensive range of services, including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, disability resources, and financial aid assistance. Carrington College-Tucson focuses on career-oriented support, such as resume writing, job placement assistance, and career counseling, in addition to academic support.

• What is the campus environment like at Pima Community College compared to Carrington College-Tucson?

  Pima Community College has multiple campuses throughout Tucson, offering a more traditional college experience with a diverse student body and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Carrington College-Tucson typically has a smaller, more focused campus environment, catering to students seeking specific career training and a more intimate learning setting.

• How do the colleges differ in terms of accreditation?

  Pima Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accrediting body. Carrington College-Tucson is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), a national accrediting agency focused on career-oriented institutions. Accreditation ensures that the colleges meet certain standards of quality and accountability.

• What are the career placement rates like for graduates of each college?

  Both colleges aim to prepare students for successful careers. Carrington College-Tucson often highlights its career placement rates for specific programs, emphasizing its focus on job readiness. Pima Community College also has strong career placement rates, particularly in fields aligned with local industry needs, and provides resources to help students find employment after graduation.

• Does either college offer online learning options?

  Yes, both Pima Community College and Carrington College-Tucson offer online learning options. Pima Community College has a robust online program with a wide variety of courses and degree programs available online. Carrington College-Tucson also offers some of its programs in an online or hybrid format, providing flexibility for students.

• Which college is better for transferring to a four-year university?

  Pima Community College is generally a better option for students planning to transfer to a four-year university. Pima offers a wide range of transfer pathways and articulation agreements with universities, making it easier for students to transfer their credits. While it's possible to transfer credits from Carrington College-Tucson, it may be more challenging due to the career-focused nature of its programs.