Kirtland Community College

Kirtland Community College is a public community college located in Roscommon, Michigan, United States, near Houghton Lake and Grayling, Michigan. The college was established in 1966 and serves Roscommon County, Michigan, Ogemaw County, Michigan, and Crawford County, Michigan, as well as parts of Oscoda County, Michigan, Alcona County, Michigan, and Gladwin County, Michigan. Kirtland Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the American Association of Community Colleges and the Michigan Community College Association. The college has partnerships with Ferris State University, Central Michigan University, and Western Michigan University.

● History

Kirtland Community College was founded in 1966 as a result of a Michigan Legislature bill that allowed for the creation of community colleges in the state. The college's first classes were held in 1968 at the Roscommon High School building, with Dr. George W. Meldrum as the first president. In the early years, the college focused on providing vocational training and associate's degree programs in fields such as nursing, business administration, and criminal justice. Over the years, the college has expanded its programs to include transfer degrees and certificates in areas like computer science, engineering, and health sciences. The college has also established partnerships with local businesses and organizations, such as the Roscommon County Economic Development Corporation and the Houghton Lake Chamber of Commerce.

● Campus

The Kirtland Community College campus is located on a 220-acre site in Roscommon, Michigan, near the intersection of M-18 and M-55. The campus features several buildings, including the Student Center, the Library, and the Health Sciences Building. The college also has a child development center and a gymnasium that hosts athletic events and community activities. The campus is surrounded by woods and wetlands, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education. The college is also close to Houghton Lake, which offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Nearby attractions include the Houghton Lake State Game Area, the Roscommon Village Historic District, and the Crawford County Historical Museum.

● Academics

Kirtland Community College offers a range of academic programs that lead to associate's degrees, certificates, and transfer degrees. The college has departments in areas such as arts and humanities, social sciences, mathematics and science, and health sciences. The college also offers online courses and distance learning programs, which allow students to complete coursework from anywhere with an internet connection. The college has articulation agreements with several universities, including Ferris State University, Central Michigan University, and Western Michigan University, which allow students to transfer credits and complete bachelor's degrees. The college is also a member of the Michigan Transfer Agreement, which facilitates the transfer of credits between community colleges and universities in the state.

● Student Life

Kirtland Community College has a range of student organizations and clubs that cater to different interests and hobbies. The college has a Student Senate that represents the interests of students and provides opportunities for leadership development. The college also has a campus newspaper and a radio station that allow students to express themselves and showcase their talents. The college hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and sporting events. The college also has a career services office that provides job placement assistance and career counseling to students and alumni. The college is also a member of the National Student Nurses' Association and the American Marketing Association.

● Athletics

Kirtland Community College has a range of athletic teams that compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). The college has teams in men's basketball, women's basketball, men's soccer, and women's volleyball. The college's athletic teams are known as the Kirtland Firebirds and have a strong rivalry with other community colleges in the state, such as Mott Community College and Schoolcraft College. The college's athletic facilities include a gymnasium and a soccer field, which host home games and tournaments. The college also has a fitness center and a weight room that are available to students and staff. The college is also a member of the Michigan Community College Athletic Association and the National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletic Administrators.

Category:Education in Michigan