Staff Reports | Community Updates
Maricopa Community Colleges has welcomed nearly 100,000 Arizona residents for the new academic year across its 10 colleges, reinforcing its role as one of the state’s largest providers of higher education and workforce training.
The system also reported continued growth in its bachelor’s degree programs, with more than 4,000 students newly declaring one of its 11 workforce-aligned bachelor’s degree programs this fall and total bachelor’s degree enrollment approaching 11,000 students, according to a press release.
“Each of our students represents a goal, a family, and the opportunity for a better Arizona,” Dr. Steven Bloomberg, chancellor of Maricopa Community Colleges, said. “Whether they are beginning college for the first time, pursuing a bachelor’s degree, or training for a new career, our responsibility is to make sure opportunity remains within reach.”
Maricopa Community Colleges said it reached 10,000 enrolled bachelor’s degree students earlier this year and plans to introduce three additional bachelor’s degree programs in fall 2027. Last year, the system announced plans to expand its bachelor’s degree offerings to 26 programs over the next five years.
The system said it expects nearly 100,000 Arizona residents to enroll this fall. Maricopa Community Colleges operates 10 colleges and 31 satellite locations across Maricopa County.
The district has also maintained the same tuition rates for four consecutive years, providing students with a lower-cost option for pursuing degrees, certificates and workforce training programs.
Nearly 50,000 students enrolled this fall are the first in their families to attend college.
Maricopa Community Colleges provides first-generation students with academic advising, financial aid assistance, career services, tutoring and other support resources designed to help students navigate the college experience and complete their educational goals.
“Higher education has the power to change the trajectory of a family and the generations that come after,” Dr. Bloomberg said. “When nearly 50,000 first-generation students choose Maricopa, that tells us how significant the opportunity is and how important our mission remains.”
