What Is It Known For?
San Diego College of Continuing Education has a rich history dating back to 1914. It began when the San Diego City Schools board approved free night classes for adults, focusing on basic skills and citizenship instruction. Today, it’s a public, noncredit institution serving about 40,000 students yearly across seven campuses.
As part of the San Diego Community College District, this school has grown significantly over the past century. It offers a wide range of programs, helping adults improve their skills and knowledge. The college’s long-standing commitment to accessible education has made it an important part of the San Diego community.
Degrees & Certifications
San Diego College of Continuing Education provides a wide range of educational opportunities. With over 300 tuition-free programs and 7 campus locations, students can access learning from various locations across San Diego.
Here’s a sample of the certificate programs and classes offered:
- Automotive
- Business, Accounting, and Entrepreneurship
- Healthcare
- Clothing and Textiles
- Information Technology
- Skilled and Technical Trades
- And Many More!
Class Schedules
While many courses are held on campus, some have online options available. The school also provides hybrid formats for certain programs, blending in-person and virtual learning.
For healthcare programs, students might wonder about externships or clinical experience. Since this information isn’t readily available, it’s best to contact the school directly for specifics on these opportunities. This way, you can get the most up-to-date and accurate details about your program of interest.
Is It Legit?
Yes. The San Diego College of Continuing Education is a legitimate institution. The school is accredited by the WASC Accrediting Commission for Schools.
Acceptance Rate
There is no information about the school’s acceptance rate. However, you do need to set up a mySDCCD student portal to enroll in classes.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition is free for over 300 certificate programs and classes at San Diego College of Continuing Education.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Business Administration
- Accounting
- Entrepreneurship
- Project Management
Healthcare
- Home Health Aide
- Nursing Assistant
- Personal Care Assistant/Caregiver
Professional Services
- Culinary Arts
- Baking & Pastry Arts
Skilled Trades
- Automotive
- Air Conditioning and Heating
- Electronics Technician
- Plumbing
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding
- HVAC Technician
Technology
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Network Technician
Campus Locations
San Diego 4343 Ocean View Boulevard San Diego, CA 92113
San Diego 3375 Camino Del Rio South San Diego, CA 92108
San Diego 1313 Park Boulevard San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego 7250 Mesa College Drive San Diego, CA 92111
San Diego 10440 Black Mountain Road San Diego, CA 92126
Reviews
Based on Google reviews, the San Diego College of Continuing Education has an exceptionally strong reputation built on its modern facilities, high-quality, free education, and supportive environment, though there are isolated criticisms of the administrative staff.
Overall Score: 4.5/5 Stars
Common Praises
- High-Quality, Accessible, and Free Education: The fact that the classes and use of the facilities are free is the most significant draw, with reviewers praising this key benefit. The education itself is described as “quality” and a great place to continue one’s education.
- Knowledgeable and Accessible Instructors: Teachers are consistently described as “knowledgeable and accessible.” Instructors in specific programs, such as Software Engineering and Interactive Multimedia, are credited with strong teaching that led to a former student landing a career shortly after the program, confirming the educational value.
- Modern, State-of-the-Art Facilities: The campus is frequently highlighted for its excellent physical environment, noted as a “Very new building,” “state-of-the-art facility,” and “really good looking.” Classrooms are well-equipped, clean, and safe.
- Supportive and Friendly Environment: The staff, counselors, and overall atmosphere are repeatedly called “friendly,” “helpful,” and great at making students “feel welcome.” The school offers an “awesome supportive environment” where staff “really care about your education.”
- Excellent Logistics: The campus is situated in a “great neighborhood” and, importantly, offers free parking in a garage, a logistical perk that reviewers appreciate.
Common Criticisms
- Rude Front Desk Staff: The most direct, though isolated, criticism is aimed at the front desk, with one reviewer noting that the “People working in front desk are very rude [and] they don’t know how to speak with the students.”
- Temperature/AC Issues: One detailed complaint noted getting sick due to the “strong AC blowing cold air straight into your face and ears,” despite multiple complaints, suggesting a lingering issue with interior climate control/ventilation.
Momentum
Since 11 years ago, the reviews have maintained a high positive sentiment. The most recent reviews (within the last 1-2 years) continue to highlight the great experience, supportive environment, and cleanliness/safety of the campus, suggesting a sustained quality of education. The long-term impact is demonstrated by a student who attended in 2018 and secured a career afterward. The few negative reviews regarding staff rudeness are isolated and have not led to a downward trend, helping to sustain the overall high rating.