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Why Choose Palomar?

Why do students choose Palomar College in San Marcos? Here are some of the most popular reasons.

A Quality Education

Palomar has the educational programs to fit your life goals:

Career Preparation: Whether seeking an Associates degree or certificate, preparing to transfer to a university, or in need of career training, students choose Palomar for our wide variety of options that fit their budget and schedules.

Job Skills and Advancement: We have courses for students looking to advance their career or enter into a new industry.

Personal Enrichment: We serve all students – including those who just graduated from high school to those returning to school to enrich their life experience.

A Long, Rich History; A Diverse Student Body

Founded in 1946, Palomar College has a history rich in tradition and achievements. Over time, we have developed many educational and support services to serve our large student body of diverse ages, ethnicities, and lifestyles.

Read more about our growth over the years.

Palomar College is a Proud Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI)

Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) are colleges and universities that are formally designated by the United States Department of Education for their commitment to serving the Hispanic population. With 47% of our student population identifying as Hispanic, we surround our Hispanic/Latinx students with peers and support them with quality resources so they can succeed in their pursuit of a higher education. More Information on our HSI designation

Highly Reputable, Accredited College

Palomar College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC/WASC), an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council of Higher Education Accreditation and the Department of Education.

Why is this important? Because other institutions, such as universities and employers, recognize Palomar as a high-quality and reputable college and students have a direct path to transfer.

Strong Partnerships

We believe in developing strong relationships, not only with our faculty, staff, and students, but also with the organizations that can help our community reach their learning and career goals.

We closely partner with universities, employers, student assistance programs, military, and other institutions on many programs, grants, and initiatives.

See some of current partnerships.

Current and Relevant

By staying active in a wide variety of ways – from athletics to performing arts, from clubs to student government – we are always building a stronger educational community that is relevant to today’s student needs.

View the latest Palomar News.

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