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College of the Canyons

College of the Canyons is part of the California Community College system, the largest system of higher education in the U.S. with 116 accredited colleges serving 1.9 million students.

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Location

The college is located in Santa Clarita, California, about 30 miles north of downtown Los Angeles, and covers a 367-square-mile service area in northern Los Angeles County. With a 2020 census population of 228,673, Santa Clarita is the third-most populous city in Los Angeles County. The city lies within the Santa Clarita Valley, bounded by the San Gabriel Mountains to the east, the Santa Susana Mountains to the south and west, and the Sierra Pelona Mountains to the north. The Santa Clara River passes through the city from east to west. The area's Mediterranean climate produces hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Canyon Country campus
New buildings were completed at the Canyon Country campus in 2021 and '22. Enlarge Photo

Programs

College of the Canyons offers 275 associate degree and certificate programs1, and serves 33,905 students2 per year at campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country. In addition to meeting the academic needs of students seeking transfer and career technical education, the college fields 17 men's and women's athletic programs and plays a key role in driving the local economy. On average, the Workforce & Economic Advancement Division generates $4 million per year to provide cutting-edge training for thousands of employees at numerous local companies.

The college participates in several innovative partnerships that have redefined the traditional role of community colleges. It collaborates with nearly every social service agency in the community, as well as school districts, the city of Santa Clarita, chamber of commerce, industry associations, and numerous businesses.

University CenterThe Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center offers advanced degrees. Enlarge Photo

Innovation

The Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center, located at the Valencia campus, allows students to earn bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from a collection of public and private universities, improving access to education by eliminating the need to commute long distances to obtain advanced degrees. Four partner universities offer 24 degree programs,3 as well as certificate and credential programs. A total of 4,168 students have graduated from programs here since the center opened in 2002.

College of the Canyons has served the community since 1969. During that time, it has fostered a reputation for innovation, excellence, partnerships, and student success.


Notes

1. Information current as of Jan. 2, 2024 [updated data]
2. Enrollment data for 2021/22
3. Information current as of Jan. 10, 2024 [updated programs]

Updated Jan. 10, 2024