Trinidad State College

What Is It Known For?

Back in 1925, Trinidad State College became Colorado’s first community college. That pioneering spirit still runs through the institution today as one of 13 public community colleges within the Colorado Community College System. What’s more, around 2,000 students call this place their academic home each year.

Location makes Trinidad State stand out. The 17-acre Trinidad Campus sits high above the historic town on the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains. This setting creates a genuine college experience in an environment that feels worlds away from typical urban campuses.

With a 16:1 student-to-teacher ratio, classes also stay small enough for real connections between students and instructors.

Degrees & Certifications

Trinidad State College helps you earn your degree or certificate through various academic pathways. The programs cover:

Program lengths vary depending on what you choose to pursue.

Class Schedules

At Trinidad State College, flexibility comes built into the schedule. With in-person, on-campus, and online or hybrid options, you can find a format that works for your life. Classes run throughout the day, from morning sessions through afternoon and into evening hours.

For students in healthcare programs, internships connect classroom learning to real medical settings. Contact the school for more information on externships.

Is It a Good School?

Yes. Since 1962, the Higher Learning Commission has continuously accredited Trinidad State College. That long track record shows consistent quality.

Acceptance Rate

100% acceptance rate. Trinidad State College operates with an open admission policy, meaning anyone seeking higher education or wanting to build new skills can enroll.

How Much Does Tuition Cost?

Per credit hour tuition costs at Trinidad State College fall between $175 and $438, depending on your residency status and program, among other factors.

For estimates based on your specific situation, the school’s net price calculator breaks down expenses in detail. You can also refer to the school’s finance webpage for more information.

Programs & Courses

Business

  • Business Administration

Criminal Justice & Law

  • Law Enforcement
  • Criminal Justice

Healthcare

  • RN-BSN
  • Dental Assistant
  • Exercise Science
  • Medical Assistant Professional
  • Nurse Aide
  • Nursing
  • Psychology

Professional Services

  • Barbering
  • Cosmetology
  • Esthetician

Skilled Trades

  • Automotive Technology
  • Construction Technology
  • Gunsmithing Degree
  • Welding Technology

Technology

  • Computer Information Systems
  • Computer Networking
  • Computer Science
  • Cybersecurity

Campus Locations

Trinidad 600 Prospect St, Trinidad, CO 81082

Alamosa 1011 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101

Reviews

Based on reviews in Google, Trinidad State College (TSC) is widely praised by alumni for its beautiful campus, strong sense of community, and highly dedicated professors who genuinely invest in student success. It is noted for its high-quality technical programs like Electronics/Computer Science and Gunsmithing. However, the college is heavily criticized for severe administrative and financial aid disorganization, outdated facilities for athletes, and poor communication, making basic enrollment processes unnecessarily difficult.

Overall Score: 4.1/5 Stars

Common Praises

Dedicated and Supportive Professors: Faculty are consistently described as “amazing” and “wonderful,” with students appreciating that they “genuinely put in their time” and are approachable.

Strong Technical and Career Programs: Specific technical education is highly praised. Alumni noted the Electronics and Computer Science degree served them exceptionally well, and the Gunsmithing program attracts people from outside the area for specialized training.

Beautiful Campus and Setting: The campus is frequently mentioned as one of the most “beautiful” reviewers have seen, with great areas to watch wildlife, adding to a pleasant learning atmosphere.

Good Community and Personal Touch: Many graduates feel a strong connection to their “alma mater,” highlighting a “very communal” feeling and the ability to always talk to the Dean.

Common Criticisms

Severe Administrative and Communication Failure: This is the most prevalent complaint. Students report that staff answer the phone only “1 out of 20-30 times” over days or weeks, and voice mails are ignored. This lack of communication creates constant problems.

Financial Aid and Billing Mismanagement: The college is accused of taking money from student loans after the withdraw date and forcing students to pay for classes in full at one time because they are unwilling to process payment plans, creating financial stress.

Outdated Athletic Facilities: Student-athletes are advised to “stay far away” due to the “unplayable” condition of fields for soccer and softball, and a gym that “feels a century old,” suggesting a lack of investment in athletics.

Unfair Disciplinary Practices: Serious accusations were made that when “something goes wrong,” the college “will take one side… and not ever check out the truth,” leading to students feeling their issues were not investigated accurately or fairly.

Confiscation of Medical Cannabis: One reviewer warned that staff lied about allowing cannabis patients on campus, attempting to confiscate legally held medicine, forcing the student to quit their program and relocate.

Momentum

Trinidad State College’s momentum is programmatically strong due to its established and high-quality technical degrees. However, the overall momentum is severely hampered by administrative dysfunction and outdated infrastructure. The excellent work of the professors and the quality of the technical education are often undermined by an enrollment and support system that is unresponsive, financially demanding, and, in some cases, allegedly unethical. The college needs immediate, dedicated investment in both its student support offices (communication and finance) and its physical infrastructure (dormitories and athletic facilities) to match the quality of its teaching.