What Is It Known For?
Century College stands out as a large two-year institution in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, serving learners at many stages of life. Annual enrollment reaches close to 18,000 credit and non-credit students, placing it among the biggest community and technical colleges in the state.
Its roots trace to 1967, having an initial group of 503 students. After several changes, it now reflects a broader focus on workforce preparation, transfer education, and community service.
Today, the college contributes more than $386 million each year to the local economy.
Degrees & Certifications
Program variety remains one of Century College’s defining features. More than 150 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates support both short and longer-term academic plans.
Career-focused options cover:
- Business
- Arts and humanities
- Health sciences
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
- Trade and Industry, and more.
In addition, non-credit workforce training supports skill development for adults already in the labor market.
Class Schedules
Courses at Century College run during daytime and evening hours, and on weekend blocks for select programs. Several learning formats appear across departments, including live online sessions, self-paced online study, blended courses, and flexible attendance models.
Health-related programs include supervised clinical placements, allowing students to apply classroom lessons in real care settings. That mix supports steady progress without placing life on hold.
Is It a Good School?
Academic quality receives external review through institutional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission.
Certain programs also carry specialized accreditations from discipline-based accrediting bodies.
Acceptance Rate
Century College does not publish a fixed acceptance rate. Admission and enrollment requirements differ by program, contact the admissions office for guidance.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at Century College averages $217.83 per credit, covering standard rates and fees. Some programs carry different tuition rates or added costs. Personalized estimates are available through the Century College net price calculator.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting
- Business
- Marketing
Criminal Justice & Law
- Criminal Justice
Healthcare
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygiene
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Exercise Science
- Medical Assistant
- Nursing Assistant
- Nursing
- Paramedic
- Psychology
- Radiologic Technology
Professional Services
- Cosmetology
- Graphic Design & Production
- Interior Design
Skilled Trades
- Automotive Service Technology
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology
- Welding
Technology
- Computer Information Systems
- Computer Science
- Cybersecurity, Forensics and Information Assurance
- Web Design
Campus Locations
White Bear Lake 3300 Century Ave N White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Century College in White Bear Lake is widely regarded as one of the best value community colleges in Minnesota. It is particularly praised for its diverse student body and a vibrant “West Campus” atmosphere, though students frequently warn about inconsistent advising and administrative hurdles.
Overall Score: 3.7/5 Stars
Common Praises
High-Quality Instruction: Many students report that the professors are “knowledgeable,” “passionate,” and “engaged.” Specific praise is often given to the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and Translation/Interpreting programs.
Excellent Value: Reviewers consistently mention that the college offers a “high-quality education for little to no cost.” It is highly recommended for students looking to finish general education requirements before transferring to a four-year university.
Campus Life (West Campus): The West Campus is described as “cool” and “alive,” with numerous clubs, events, and an inclusive, open-minded student culture.
Specialized Support: Non-traditional and transfer students have shared success stories about staff accommodating full-time work schedules and providing strong support during difficult personal times.
Common Criticisms
Advising and Misinformation: A recurring frustration is the “apathetic faculty” and counselors in the administrative offices. Several students reported receiving false information regarding graduation requirements, which resulted in delayed degrees and lost tuition money.
Administrative Bureaucracy: Students have noted that the website can be a “disaster” and that obtaining transcripts or resolving financial aid issues can be “super difficult.”
East Campus Atmosphere: In contrast to the vibrant West Campus, the East Campus is frequently described as “dead” or lacking energy.
Inconsistent Support Staff: While professors are generally loved, some students reported negative interactions with specialized staff, such as photo lab assistants and continuing education instructors, whom they found “uncaring.”
Momentum
The momentum for Century College is strongly upward and community-focused in 2025. This year, the college was named a “Top 150 Community College” by the Aspen Institute, placing it among the elite institutions nationwide for student outcomes. In late 2025, Century College launched its new Center for Excellence in Workforce Training, which has already begun facilitating high-demand certifications in healthcare and technology. While “advising headaches” remain a common theme in 2025 reviews, the college’s 95% job placement rate for technical graduates and its status as a leader in student diversity continue to make it a premier choice for higher education in the Twin Cities.