Public community college in Frederick, Maryland, serving nearly 30,000 graduates since 1957 with affordable, flexible education.
Frederick Community College offers over 85 different degree and continuing education programs, including 55 associate degree programs and areas of concentration, 39 certificate programs, and 51 subject areas in continuing education. The college provides instruction in flexible learning formats including day, evening, weekend, online, and hybrid options. Notable programs include Emergency Management (supported by FEMA), Health Sciences, Medical Administrative Specialist, and Cell & Gene Therapy Essentials. FCC also operates an Early College program allowing high school juniors and seniors to earn an associate degree and high school diploma simultaneously.
The 97-acre campus, located at 7932 Opossumtown Pike in Frederick, moved to its current location in 1970. The Bess and Frank Gladhill Learning Commons, opened in January 2016, serves as a flexible research and learning space with library resources, academic support services, and technology. The Jack B. Kussmaul Theater–Arts Center hosts music performances, art exhibitions, and educational programs. Campus security operates 24 hours daily. FCC offers eight intercollegiate sports including men's baseball, basketball, golf, and soccer, and women's basketball, volleyball, softball, and soccer.
FCC operates with open admissions, welcoming all applicants. Selective admissions programs requiring additional applications include Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant, Respiratory Care, Surgical Technology, American Sign Language Interpreter Preparatory Program, and the Honors College. All new students must complete mathematics, reading, writing, and skills placement tests before enrolling in developmental or credit courses. The college requires degree-seeking students to file a degree plan with an academic advisor and complete developmental courses and first college-level English and math courses by 24 credits.
FCC reports strong student outcomes: 79% course completion rate, 35% graduation rate within three years for first-time full-time degree-seeking students, and 27% transfer rate within three years. The fall-to-fall retention rate is 63%. The college serves a diverse student body: 55% female, 44% male credit students; 45% students of color; 32% first-generation college students; and 22% adult learners (25+). Career program graduates show income growth, with top areas of study being Health Professions, STEM, and Business.