Cerritos College

Cerritos College is a public community college located in Norwalk, California, and is part of the California Community Colleges system. The college was founded in 1955 and has since become one of the largest community colleges in Los Angeles County, serving over 22,000 students from Norwalk, Cerritos, Artesia, Bellflower, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, and La Mirada. Cerritos College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges and is a member of the American Association of Community Colleges. The college has articulation agreements with several universities, including University of California, Los Angeles, University of Southern California, and California State University, Long Beach.

● History

The history of Cerritos College dates back to 1955, when it was founded as a junior college, with the first classes held at Excelsior High School in Norwalk. The college moved to its current location in 1957 and has since expanded to include several new buildings and facilities, including the Cerritos College Library and the Fine Arts Building. Over the years, the college has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the construction of the Student Center and the Health Sciences Building. Cerritos College has also established partnerships with several local organizations, including the Cerritos Chamber of Commerce and the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce. The college has a strong commitment to serving the local community, with programs such as the Cerritos College Foundation and the Norwalk Community College Foundation. Notable alumni include Mark Takano, a United States House of Representatives member, and Luis Guerra, a former California State Assembly member.

● Campus

The Cerritos College campus is located on a 135-acre site in Norwalk, and features a mix of modern and historic buildings, including the Burnett Center, the Student Activities Building, and the Child Development Center. The campus is also home to several public art installations, including works by Michael Davis, Robert Irwin, and Maya Lin. The college has a strong commitment to sustainability, with several green buildings and initiatives, including the Cerritos College Sustainability Program and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority's Metro Express bus service. The campus is also within walking distance of the Cerritos Towne Center and the Norwalk Town Square. Nearby institutions include California State University, Dominguez Hills, University of California, Irvine, and Whittier College.

● Academics

Cerritos College offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate's degrees and certificates in fields such as Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Health Sciences, and Liberal Arts. The college is also home to several specialized programs, including the Cerritos College Nursing Program, the Cerritos College Dental Hygiene Program, and the Cerritos College Automotive Technology Program. The college has articulation agreements with several universities, including University of California, Berkeley, University of California, San Diego, and California State University, Fullerton. Cerritos College is also a member of the National Association of Community College Entrepreneurship and the American Association of Community Colleges's Commission on Economic and Workforce Development. The college has a strong commitment to online education, with several online degree and certificate programs, including the Cerritos College Online Education Program and the California Virtual Campus.

● Student Life

Cerritos College has a diverse student body, with over 22,000 students from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups. The college offers a range of student services, including Counseling Services, Financial Aid, and Student Health Services. The college is also home to several student organizations, including the Cerritos College Student Senate, the Cerritos College Inter-Club Council, and the Cerritos College Debate Team. The college has a strong commitment to community engagement, with several programs and initiatives, including the Cerritos College Community Service Program and the Norwalk Community Coalition. Nearby events include the Cerritos Festival, the Norwalk Christmas Parade, and the Los Angeles County Fair. The college is also within driving distance of several major attractions, including Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, and the Hollywood Bowl.

● Athletics

Cerritos College has a strong athletic program, with teams competing in the South Coast Conference and the California Community College Athletic Association. The college offers several sports programs, including Football, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, and Soccer. The college has a strong commitment to athletic excellence, with several state and national championships, including the California Community College Football Championship and the National Junior College Athletic Association's Football Championship. The college has produced several notable athletes, including Troy Aikman, a former National Football League quarterback, and Shane Vereen, a former National Football League running back. The college is also home to the Cerritos College Athletic Hall of Fame, which recognizes outstanding athletes and coaches. Nearby athletic venues include the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Rose Bowl, and the Staples Center. The college is also within driving distance of several major sporting events, including the Rose Parade and the Los Angeles Marathon.

Category:Universities and colleges in Los Angeles County, California