The American Community College

Community colleges are a bedrock of the American educational and economic landscape. They enroll nearly half of all college students and play an important role in regional economic development and workforce training efforts. The American Community College, now in its seventh edition, has long been the go-to reference for current and aspiring administrators, policymakers, faculty, trustees, and researchers concerned with the role of community colleges in the United States. This comprehensive book covers the services community colleges provide, their impact on students and surrounding communities, and how they are approaching contemporary issues related to equity, sustainability, and student success. Written by leading researchers in the field, this seventh edition has been thoroughly revised with a greater focus on equitable approaches to serving students and communities and the social role of these important institutions. Additional updates include coverage of collaborations with community, economic, and workforce development organizations; a greater focus on entrepreneurship and innovation; recent efforts to improve student persistence and attainment through guided pathways and equity-minded student supports; and the growing emphasis on preparing a skilled workforce via noncredit training, credit for prior learning, non-degree credentials, and community college baccalaureate programs. Each chapter includes guiding questions for reflection and discussion, making this an ideal textbook or training resource. As community colleges grow in significance, The American Community College keeps step with the very latest research and institutional changes. This comprehensive book will be of value to anyone concerned with the role and purpose of community colleges in America. Administrators, faculty, staff, and trustees can use the descriptions and analyses of the institution's functions to learn about successful practices in college leadership, finance, curriculum, pedagogy, and the provision of equitable support for students. Additionally, scholars, students planning careers in community colleges, and trustees and officials concerned with policies and outcomes will all find important context and current research and statistics inside. With this update, The American Community College further cements its status as the most important book on the subject.