Richland Community College (RCC) is a public, two‑year institution of higher education located in Richland, Washington, United States. Established in 1965, the college is part of the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges system and is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Campus and Facilities
The main campus occupies approximately 28 acres in the Tri‑Cities region of southeastern Washington. It includes academic buildings, laboratories, a library, a student center, athletic fields, and specialized facilities for programs such as health sciences, automotive technology, and culinary arts.
Academic Programs
RCC offers associate degrees, professional certificates, and workforce training programs across multiple disciplines, including:
- Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
- Business and Management
- Health Sciences (e.g., Nursing, Dental Hygiene)
- Applied Sciences and Technology (e.g., Engineering Technology, Computer Information Systems)
- Public and Human Services
The college also provides transfer agreements with four‑year universities, enabling students to pursue bachelor’s degrees after completing an associate program.
Student Body
Enrollment typically ranges between 4,000 and 5,000 credit‑seeking students, with additional participants in non‑credit continuing‑education and workforce development courses. The student population is diverse, with representation from the local community, military families, and international students.
Student Services
RCC offers a range of support services, including academic advising, tutoring centers, career counseling, financial aid assistance, and disability services. The college also maintains an active student life program with clubs, organizations, and athletic teams competing in the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC).
Governance and Funding
Governance is provided by a locally elected board of trustees, and the college receives funding from a combination of state appropriations, local property taxes, tuition, and grant revenues.
Community Role
As a community college, RCC serves as a hub for regional workforce development, partnering with local industries, the Columbia Basin Water Authority, and the U.S. Department of Energy facilities in the area to align curricula with regional economic needs.
Notable Achievements
- Consistently ranked among the top community colleges in Washington for transfer success rates.
- Recognized for its health sciences programs, particularly nursing and allied health certifications.
External Links
- Official website: https://www.richlandcc.edu
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accreditation page.
