The central region of California that dominates what was once just considered part of NorCal, grew into its own regional identity a couple generations ago. The Bay Area and Central Coast have long since broken away from the misty, quiet forest titans of the North Coast and desert interior to become their own center of gravity.
Yeah, it’s Silicon Valley, but it’s also something more: an increasingly deep and broad web of higher education that is creating breakthroughs not just in tech, but in high finance, business leadership, ecology, AI, and other trends that you don’t hear about… until they suddenly become the only things you hear about.
That’s where the mission of California’s affordable and effective community colleges can deliver game-changing value.
How Community Colleges on the Central Coast and Bay Area Help Businesses and People Keep Up With Lightspeed Change
One sure thing about technology is that it has a big impact on businesses large and small. The ripple effects coming out of Silicon Valley are more like the big surf rolling into Monterey Bay when it comes to productivity and innovation. And there’s no way to ride those waves without a college education.
But you don’t need anyone to tell you that education, like everything else in central California, has gotten crazy expensive. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the typical cost of a four-year bachelor’s degree in California is over $97,000 in tuitions and fees alone. That’s to say nothing of housing costs, the commute, and keeping yourself fed.
Fortunately, the state has stepped up to make getting a quality business education a lot more affordable for the average resident.
The Secret Advantages to an Affordable Community College Business Education in Central California
The California Community College (CCC) system is the largest system of higher education in the United States, serving almost 2 million students annually. In a state that’s known for being expensive, it offers an amazing deal: the California Community Colleges Board of Governors set the per-credit cost at less than $50 for state residents. That puts an associate degree in business on the menu for under $3,000 all told, for both tuition and fees.
The total average cost for a two-year associate degree through a California community college is just $2,760 for state residents. But for those from out-of-state who want to attend can expect to pay $27,480 for that exact same education.
But that’s only half of it – literally.
Since the state also passed legislation that allows every school in the CCC to make each of their degrees available as an Associate Degree for Transfer (AS-T), they are accepted at any four-year state university for full credit towards a bachelor’s degree. On top of that, you get preferential admission to California’s state university system.
That’s a huge savings if a bachelor’s is in your sights, either as your final stop or on your way to an MBA.
Evaluating Your Choices for Affordable Business Associate Degree Programs in the Bay Area and Central Coast of California
There’s tremendous value in those CCC associate degrees that goes far beyond the $2,760 price tag. Look at the rates they charge to out-of-state students and you’ll get a better idea of the true cost of delivering two years of college education. At more than $27,000, it’s right on par with some of the elite private colleges in the region.
You can’t discount the value of an associate degree from one of these community colleges on its own terms, either. City College of San Francisco can help you develop the management and leadership skills you need to manage a small independent hotel in the Marina District. Monterey Peninsula College can help you out with the economic and marketing understanding it will take to breathe fresh life into a FBO (Fixed Base Operator) hustling for high-end clients at the private jet destination of Monterey Regional Airport.
Because there are over 40 affordable community colleges offering business programs in this region, almost all at the exact same price, your choice of degree and college will ultimately come down to the specific concentration you might be interested in, and your location.
Making Your Selection Among the 42 Affordable Associate Degrees in Business in California’s Central Region
It doesn’t take much convincing to show people the value of an affordable associate degree in business in Central California. But it’s still up to you to choose which of these schools is the best fit for your goals.
In most cases, people aim local. That’s easy to do, with most Central California counties hosting multiple affordable community colleges with associate degrees in business.
There is a lot more that goes into a community college education than proximity, though. So we fill you in on a lot of the extra details that tie a community college to, well, the community. We aim to show you a little bit about the character and services that are unique to each of these programs. A little thumbnail text description about what makes each one special goes along with the listings.
You’ll also find a standard set of data about each school that makes it easy to compare them head-to-head. We tell you:
- Whether the degree is offered as a transfer degree
- Whether the school offers other related certificate or degree programs, so you can sense the breadth of the education
- The program format, whether on campus in a traditional classroom, entirely online, or in a hybrid delivery that combines both
- How you can get more information on the program through a link back to the website
Put it all together, and you have everything you need to make the right choice for the career you deserve, at a price you can afford.
Central California’s Community College Associate Degree Programs in Business – Low-Cost Options that Offer Tremendous Value
Solano Community College
School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Business Department
Fairfield, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration (on-campus)
Associate in Business-General (on-campus)
Also offers: Associate in Business Insurance-Property and Casualty, Certificate of Achievement in (Business Insurance-Property and Casualty, Management, Retail Management, Small Business Management, Marketing, Administrative Assistant, Medical Administrative Assistant, Real Estate), Job Direct Certificate in Insurance Specialist, Associate in (Management, Retail Management, Small Business Management, Marketing, Administrative Assistant, Real Estate)
- Four campus locations include Fairfield, Vallejo, Vacaville, and Travis Air Force Base
- Home to the Aon Apprenticeship Program – a partnership between employers, nonprofit partners, and community colleges to create apprenticeship programs
- Superb support and guidance to all students through the Academic Success and Tutoring Center
A career in business is at your fingertips through Solano Community College’s associate business degree programs! The Associate in Business – General is designed to jumpstart or advance your career upon graduation, while the AS – Transfer in Business Administration is designed to provide you with a foundation for future study at the bachelor’s level. Solano Community College is also part of the Aon Apprenticeship Program with the U.S. Department of Labor – an exciting opportunity to earn your degree while gaining industry knowledge through real-world experiences!
Oxnard College
Division of Career and Technical Education
Oxnard, CA
Website
AS-Transfer Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Management (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Management, Logistics), Certificate of Completion in (Business of Cannabis, Business Information Worker Quick Start), Proficiency Award-Marketing for Entrepreneurs, AS in Hospitality Management
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
Oxnard College’s business associate degrees are exciting and complete, offering students a foundation in business management and an exploration of topics like marketing, entrepreneurship, accounting, and business and information systems. Choose the AS – Transfer in Business Administration if you want to continue your education at the bachelor’s level. Or choose the AS in Business Administration if you’re looking for the degree that will kickstart or advance your career. Whichever program you choose, you’ll be glad to know you’re part of a college that was ranked among the best community colleges in the nation.
Ventura College
Ventura, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Management (on-campus)
Also offers: AS-Transfer in Agriculture Business, AS in Administrative Office Assistant, AS in Medical Assistant-Multi Skilled, AS in Medical Assistant-Administrative, AS in Social Media Marketing, AS in Supervision, Certificate of Achievement in (Administrative Office Assistant, Agriculture Business, Business Management, Medical Assistant-Multi Skilled, Medical Assistant-Administrative, Public Administration, Social Media Marketing, Supervision), Proficiency Award in Business Office Skills
- Home to the Ventura College Chapter of Alpha Beta Gamma, an international business honor society
- Recognized among the top community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute
Ventura College is where tomorrow’s business leaders and managers are born! Offering both an AS – Transfer in Business Administration for those looking for a program that will seamlessly transfer to a four-year business degree program, and an AS in Business Management that’s designed for immediate employment or advancement in the business world, Ventura College’s business programs feature a foundation in general management theory and practice, along with plenty of options to personalize through electives. Ventura’s Business Department, one of the most highly regarded in the state, is home to an array of opportunities to start or advance your career in business.
Santa Rosa Junior College
Business Department
Santa Rosa, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AA in Business (Real Estate, HR Administration) (on-campus)
Also offers: AS-Administrative Assistant, AS-T in Hospitality Management, Certificate in (Administrative Assistant, Business-Banking and Lending, Account Clerk and Payroll, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality-Event and Tourism Management, Business HR, Business-Management, Business-Marketing, Real Estate)
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
- Two, convenient campus locations – Santa Rosa and Petaluma
Santa Rosa Junior College is where tomorrow’s business managers and leaders study! Offering two programs – the AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (designed for students looking to transfer to a four-year institution upon graduation) and the AA in Business (designed for students interested in a clear career pathway), Santa Rosa Junior College’s business associate degree programs are where students learn the fundamental principles of business and develop the professional skills they need to confidently and effectively contribute to the operation of a business. Courses here are also focused on essential soft skills such as project management, problem solving, teamwork, and communication for a truly well-rounded course of business education.
Taft College
Business, Arts, and Humanities Division
Taft, CA
Website
AS in General Business (on-campus)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AA in Business Administration (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Management, Certificate in (Administrative Services 1, Advanced Information Technology and Management, Management-Customer Service, Microsoft Office Applications), AS in Administrative Services, Certificate of Achievement in (Administrative Services II, Administrative Services, Management), AA in Liberal Arts-Business and Technology emphasis
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution and Military Friendly School
- Intimate, student-centered learning environment boasts a low, 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio
If you’re ready to make your mark on the business world, then Taft College’s business associate degrees are designed with you in mind! The general AS program is your ticket to an entry-level position in a variety of organizations and businesses. The AS – Transfer program is ideally designed to prepare you for study at the bachelor’s level. And the AA program is both transfer- and career-friendly. Whichever program you choose, you’ll benefit from a solid course of education covering general business principles, procedures, and operations. Choose Taft for your associate’s degree in business and you’ll enjoy studying in a student-centered learning environment that boasts a low, student-to-faculty ratio of just 16:1.
Cuesta College
Business Education Division
San Luis Obispo, CA
Website
AA in Business Administration (on-campus)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: AS-T in Agriculture Business, AA in Business Administration Assistant, AS-T in Hospitality Management, AA in Recreation Administration
- Outstanding student resources and services available
- Ranked among the top community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute
Now is the time to begin working your way toward a career as a competent, knowledgeable business manager and professional, and Cuesta College is the place to do it! Offering both an AA in Business Administration, which is designed to prepare you for immediate employment in the field, and an AS – Transfer in Business Administration, which is designed to prepare you for further study in a business discipline at a four-year college or university, Cuesta College is where you’ll find a solid foundation in the theories and practical applications of business, along with exceptional student resources and services that ensure you’ll have what you need to succeed, both as a student and beyond.
Monterey Peninsula College
Business Department
Monterey, CA
Website
AS in Business Administration (on-campus)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Administration, Business Technology, Entrepreneurship, Entry Level Office Worker, HR, Leadership, Office Administration, Sales and Marketing)
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
- Plentiful career and transfer resources, workshops, guidance, and referrals available through the Career & Transfer Resource Center
For the last 75 years, Monterey Peninsula College has been producing tomorrow’s success stories, and its associate degrees in business continue this legacy of academic excellence. Offer an AS – Transfer in Business Administration for students who want to continue their education in business at the bachelor’s level, and an AS in Business Administration for students who want to immediately jump into the business world upon graduation, Monterey Peninsula College ensures a comprehensive examination of business principles and theories for aspiring and practicing business professionals.
San Joaquin Delta College
Business and Law
Stockton, CA
Website
AS in Business (on-campus, online)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus, online)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Administrative Office Assistant I, Administrative Office Assistant II, Administrative Office Executive, General Office, Medical Office Assistant, Logistics and Transportation Supervisor, Traffic Shipping and Receiving Technician, Real Estate, Real Estate Broker, Real Estate Salesperson, Basic Business, Entrepreneurship, International Business, Merchandising, Municipal Clerk, Retail Management, Small Business, Supervision and Management), AS in Administrative Office Executive Professional/Office Manager, AS in Logistics and Transportation, AS in Real Estate, AS in Retail Management and Merchandising, AA in Interdisciplinary Studies-Business Option
- Large community college system of more than 26,000 students
- Outstanding flexibility – choose from on-campus or online study
Online or on campus, San Joaquin Delta College’s associate degrees in business provide today’s students and tomorrow’s business leaders with a comprehensive course of education in the field of business and management. Offered both as a transfer programs (AS – Transfer in Business Administration) and as a career-focused program (AS in Business), San Joaquin Delta’s business programs are aimed at developing the business management skills you’ll need to achieve personal and professional success. A variety of courses in areas like business law, marketing, merchandising, small business management, international business, and public administration ensure a truly dynamic course of study.
Hartnell College
Agriculture, Business and Industries Meta-Major
Salinas, CA
Website
AS-T in Business Administration (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Agriculture Business, AS in Business Office Technology-Information Processing, AS in Construction Management and Architecture, AS in Manufacturing Technology, Certificate of Achievement in (Agriculture Business, Agriculture Protection, Business Office Technology-Bookkeeping, Business Information Worker Level 1, Business Information Worker Level 2)
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
- Five, convenient campus locations
Hartnell College’s AS – T in Business Administration is the perfect precursor to CSU’s BS in Business Administration! Rich in the common core of lower division courses, this program prepares students to seamlessly transfer into the CSU system upon graduation, thereby saving money and reducing the time it takes to earn their bachelor’s degree. It’s also ideally designed to provide students with the foundation for any number of four-year business degrees in areas like accounting, finance, human resources management, international business, operations management, and marketing. With five, convenient campus locations, the AS – T in Business Administration is within reach!
City College of San Francisco
School of Business, Fashion and Hospitality
San Francisco, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus, online)
AS in General Business (on-campus, online)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in Entrepreneurship and Innovation in (Broadcast and Electronic Media Arts, Business, Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management, Fashion Design and Merchandising, Journalism, Visual Media Design, Apps and Tools), AS in Supervision and Management, Certificate of Achievement in Supervision and Management, AS in HR Management, Certificate of Achievement in HR Management, AS in Marketing, Certificate of Achievement in Marketing, Certificate of Achievement in Microsoft Office Specialist, Certificate of Achievement in E-Business Entrepreneurial Apps and Tools, AS in California Real Estate, Certificate of Achievement in California Real Estate, Certificate of Achievement in General Business
- Study at any of the college’s six, convenient locations
- Flexible and convenient format includes your choice of on-campus or online study
The City College of San Francisco plays host to two business associate degrees that offer a host of benefits for tomorrow’s business managers and leaders. Whether you choose the AS – Transfer in Business Administration (designed for those with aspirations of transferring to a four-year degree in a business discipline) or the AS in General Business (designed for students looking for a program that prepares them for immediate employment in the field upon graduation), you’ll enjoy a flexible format that includes your choice of on-campus or online study. Both provide students with the theory and practical skills needed to become leaders in business, government, and nonprofits. You’re sure to love studying at a college that’s been producing college graduates since 1935!
Santa Barbara City College
Business and Entrepreneurship Career and Academic Pathway
Santa Barbara, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Administration (Entrepreneurship) (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Computer Applications and Office Management-Business Software Specialist, Computer Applications and Office Management-Office Management, AS in International Business, AS in Marketing, AS in Real Estate, AA in Finance, Certificate of Achievement in (Business Administration-Entrepreneurship, Computer Applications and Office Management-Business Software Specialist, Computer Applications and Office Management-Office Management, Finance, International Business, Marketing, Real Estate), Certificate of Completion in (Effective Marketing Communication Management, Enterprise Communication 1, Enterprise Communication 2, Global Trends in HR, High Performance Teams, Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Management Toolbox, Managing to Maximize Performance, Nonprofit Finance, Project Management, Nonprofit Fundraising, Nonprofit Manager’s Toolbox, Nonprofit Marketing, Nonprofit Strategic Planning, Nonprofits 101, Sales Techniques, Social Media for Business, Strategic Marketing)
- Named among the top community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
- Esteemed faculty has received state and national recognition from the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges, the American Library Association, the Association of Community Colleges Trustees, and more
Santa Barbara City College’s business administration programs are where future business leaders head for success! Designed as both a transfer program (AS – T) for students planning for future bachelor’s study and as a career-focused program (AS) for students interested in heading straight into the workplace upon graduation, Santa Barbara City’s business administration program provides a solid examination of business and management, which includes foundational areas like accounting, finance, economics, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. Choose Santa Barbara City College for your business education and you’ll be part of a school that’s been consistently recognized for both academic quality and faculty excellence!
College of San Mateo
Division of Business and Technology
San Mateo, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Business Analytics, AS in International Business, Certificate of Achievement in (Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, International Business), Certificate of Specialization in (Entrepreneurship-The Startup, International Business, Marketing Specialist, Small Business Management)
- Exciting opportunities to get involved – more than 30 student clubs and educational and cultural activities available
- Part of the San Mateo Community College District – take classes at the College of San Mateo, Skyline College, or Canada College
Are you ready to begin or advance your career in business? Then the College of San Mateo should be on your radar! Offering the AS – Transfer in Business Administration, which is designed to prepare you for a seamless transfer experience to a four-year university, the College of San Mateo has everything future business leaders and managers need to succeed, including a faculty of experienced business professionals and outstanding, hands-on learning experiences. Built on a foundation of entrepreneurship and ethical values with a global focus, the AS – Transfer in Business Administration is your ticket to a successful career in the dynamic business world!
Mission College
Business Department
Santa Clara, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration (on-campus, online)
AS in Business (on-campus, online)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Computing, Entrepreneurship and Small Business, Project Coordinator, Business information Professional I)
- Outstanding convenience and flexibility – choose from on-campus or a fully online course of study
- Personalize you program according to your specific interests through your choice of electives
Whatever your plans or goals in business, Mission College has the program aimed at your success! Offering both an AS in Business, a terminal degree designed to prepare you to assume a job in management and administration upon graduation, and an AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0, which is designed for students with aspirations of continuing their education at the bachelor’s level upon graduation, Mission College’s business programs provide students with a solid examination of the many aspects of business, including accounting, finance, economics, management, and marketing. Best of all, students can choose electives that align with their area(s) of interest, such as HR management, project management, marketing, entrepreneurship, and business computing.
Skyline College
Business, Entrepreneurship and Management Interest Area
San Bruno, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Management (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Administration, Business Management, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, Office Assistant), Certificate of Specialization in Entrepreneurship, AS-T in Hospitality Management
- Large community college community of more than 16,000 students
- Outstanding academic support and tutoring services available
- Part of the San Mateo Community College District – take classes at the College of San Mateo, Skyline College, or Canada College
Skyline College is home to two business programs that provide an outstanding foundation in business concepts and theories. Grounded in business, accounting, economics, and data processing, Skyline’s programs provide both current and future business professionals and leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a four-year degree in a business-related field or head straight into the workplace. Courses in management, marketing, legal, accounting, communications, and human relations prepare students to assume a variety of entry-level positions and forge ahead with confidence.
Ohlone College
Business and Health Sciences Division
Fremont, CA
Website
AA in Business (on-campus)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Business Supervision/Management, AS-Real Estate Sales Agent/Broker, Certificate of Achievement in (Accounting, Business Supervision/Management, Entrepreneurship, Real Estate Sales Agent/Broker Associate)
- Three, convenient campus locations: Fremont, Newark, and online
- Expansive community college community serves more than 16,000 students each year
Whatever your plans, if a future in business management, administration, and leadership is your goal, Ohlone College’s business associate degrees will point you towards success! These programs provide students with a solid foundation in business management, information technology, economics, international business, and legal and ethical issues, all of which prepare graduates to either immediately enter the field upon graduation (AA) or continue their studies at the bachelor’s level (AS-Transfer).
Allan Hancock College
Business Department
Santa Maria, CA
Website
AA in Business Administration (on-campus, online)
AS in Business Administration (Transfer 2.0, Management, Marketing) (on-campus, online)
Also offers: AS in Accounting, AA in Agribusiness-Enology/Viticulture, AS in Computer Business Information Systems, AS in Computer Business Office Technology, AS in Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in (Accounting, Accounting-Bookkeeping, Business, Computer Business Office Technology-Word/Information Processing, Computer Business Office Technology-Legal Secretarial, Computer Applications and Office Management, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management), Certificate of Accomplishment in (Business Law, Business-Customer Service, Business-Executive Leadership, Business-HR Management, Business-Supervisory Management, Business-Sales and Marketing, Computer Business Information Systems-Database Administration, Computer Business Information Systems-Information Architecture, Computer Business Information Systems-IT Fundamentals, Computer Business Information Systems-Office Software Support, Computer Business Information Systems-Small Business Webmaster, Information Security for Business, Computer Business Office Technology-Administrative Office Skills, Computer Business Office Technology-Office Skills, Computer Business Office Technology-Computer Business Office Software, Computer Business Office Technology-Computer Business Presentations and Publishing)
- Exciting, hands-on learning experiences through work-based learning projects
- Ranked among the top five community colleges in California and among the top 120 community colleges in the nation
Are you ready to make your mark in the business world? Then let Allan Hancock College help you succeed! Offering both an AA in Business Administration for students looking for a solid program of study leading to entry-level positions in a variety of industries and sectors, and an AS in Business Administration, either for students looking to transfer to a four-year institution upon graduation or for students interested in specializing in management or marketing, Allan Hancock College’s associate degrees in business are designed to produce competent, ethical business professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the modern workplace. Study from the comfort of your home, or at any of the college’s four, convenient locations!
Chabot College
Business Department
Hayward, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Administration, Health Care Administrator, HR Assistant, Management, Marketing, Project Management, Retail Management, Small Business Management), Administrative Assistant Certificate, Associate’s Degree-Administrative Assistant, Certificate of Proficiency in Project Management, Certificate of Proficiency in Retailing
- Outstanding student resources and support available through the Office of Academic Services
Chabot College’s AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 is your affordable pathway to a four-year degree in a business-related field! Designed specifically for the CSU system, this program provides the ideal foundation for future study at the bachelor’s level. A seamless transfer to the BS in Business Administration at CSU is at your fingertips with this comprehensive course of study!
Las Positas College
Business, Social Science, and Learning Resources
Livermore, CA
Website
AA in Business Administration (on-campus)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Entrepreneurship, Business Workforce Proficiency, Retail Management, Supervisor Management), AA in Business Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Completion in (Customer Service, Small Business Management)
Whether you’re looking for a program that will transfer seamlessly to a four-year college or university, or you’re interested in earning a degree that will immediately prepare you to enter the workforce and begin building your career in business administration and management, Las Positas College has the program designed with your success in mind! Providing students with a solid framework in basic business practices, including operations, methods, and purpose, and an examination of the major, functional areas of business, Las Positas College’s business programs are where future business pros head for success!
Laney College
Business Department
Oakland, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Administration (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Banking and Finance, AS in Business Information Systems, AS in Construction Management, AS in Management and Supervision, AS in Marketing and Sales, Certificate of Achievement in (Banking and Finance, Bookkeeping, Business Administration, Business Information Systems, Construction Management, Entrepreneurship, Management and Supervision, Marketing and Sales, Retail Management)
- Exciting Friday workshop series – free workshops aimed at major and career exploration, college success tips, and more
Laney College offers two associate degree programs for students with a variety of professional goals. Offering an AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 for students looking to pursue their educational goals at the bachelor’s level upon graduation, and an AS in Business Administration for students interested in achieving the degree that will prepare them for successful careers in profit and nonprofit organizations, Laney College’s business programs are where students head to either jumpstart or advance their career in business.
Berkeley City College
Business and Entrepreneurship
Berkeley, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AA in General Business (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in General Business, Certificate of Achievement in Management and Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Office Skills for Business
- Designated Hispanic- and Asian American-Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution
Management, marketing, accounting, human resource management, and beyond – whatever your career goals, let Berkeley City College’s associate degree programs get you where you want to be! Offering both the AS – Transfer in Business Administration – your path to a four-year degree program in a business related field, and an AA in General Business – the ideal program for students interested in entering or advancing in the workplace, Berkeley City College’s business programs ensure you’re prepared to lead in small or large organizations.
Cabrillo College
Business, English, and Language Arts Division
Aptos, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AA in General Business (on-campus)
AS in General Business (Occupational) (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in in Business Tech/Computer Applications, AS in Construction Management, AS in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management
- Ranked as the top college for transfer to UC Santa Cruz
- Designated Hispanic-Serving Institution
Three different associate degree programs for three different students, Cabrillo College is where tomorrow’s business managers and leaders are born! Choose the AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 if you have your sights set on transferring to the CSU system. Choose the AA in General Business if you’re looking to transfer into the UC system. Or choose the AS in General Business if you’re looking to transfer to another college or university, or you’re interested in entering the workforce upon graduation. Whichever program you choose, you’ll be glad to know you’re part of an esteemed community college that serves more than 17,000 students each year.
Los Medanos College
Business Area of Study
Pittsburg, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Small Business Operations, Certificate-Business Information Professional (Level I, Level II), AS in Management and Supervision, Certificate of Achievement in Management and Supervision
- Designated Hispanic-Serving Institution
- Ranked among the top community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute
Your transfer-friendly business program into the CSU system is here! The AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 through Los Medanos College is expertly designed to transfer to a business-related bachelor’s degree at any four-year college or university, including CSU’s BS in Business Administration. As one of the oldest three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, Los Medanos College has been serving students of the region for 50 years!
West Valley College
Fang Pei Che School of Professional Studies
Saratoga, CA
Website
AS in Business Administration (on-campus, online)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus, online)
Also offers: Certificate of Completion in (Small Business Essentials, Small Business Fundamentals and Growth, Bookkeeping Certification, Enrolled Agent Exam Preparation), Certificate of Completion in (Real Estate Broker License, Real Estate Salesperson License)
- Convenient and flexible – choose from on-campus and online courses
- Excellent, student-centered learning experience features an average class size of just 26 students
West Valley College offers their associate degree in business in two formats – one that seamlessly transfers to a business program at a four-year college or university and one that prepares students for immediate success in the workplace. But that’s not all. Choose West Valley College and you’ll enjoy the opportunity to either study on campus or online. An outstanding selection of online courses, evening and weekend courses, hybrid courses, and traditional courses that ensure outstanding interaction with your peers and instructors ensures that students here have plenty of options for academic success.
Porterville College
Business, Information Systems, and Industry Pathway
Porterville, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Management (Accounting, Global Entrepreneurship, HR) (on-campus)
Also offers: AS in Business Information Systems, AS in Agribusiness Production, AS-T in Agribusiness, Certificate of Achievement in Entrepreneurship, Job Skills Certificate in Entrepreneurship
Porterville College offers two associate degrees in business that are designed to align perfectly with your educational and career goals! The AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 provides the framework for future study at the bachelor’s level, while the AS in Business Management is designed to provide you with the career-ready skills and knowledge needed to excel in a variety of business fields. We love that this program comes complete with opportunities to specialize in accounting, global entrepreneurship, or human resources for a truly personalized course of study.
Bakersfield College
Business Pathway
Bakersfield, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: AA in (Accounting, Business Office Skills, Economics-Transfer), Certificate of Achievement in (Accounting, Business Administration, Business Office Skills, CompTIA, Logistics Management), Certificate of Completion in (Accounting, Business Office Skills, Entrepreneurship and Small Business, Logistics Management), Job Skills Certificate in (Business Administration, Business Office Skills), AS in Logistics Management, AA-Transfer in Economics
- Outstanding academic legacy of more than 110 years
- Excellent career counseling services available
Bakersfield College’s AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 is your introduction to the world of business, business fundamentals, and topics such as accounting, finance, and economics. Choose this dynamic program and you’ll enjoy a seamless transfer to CSU’s BS in Business Administration or other business-related degree at a four-year college or university. You’re sure to love studying at a school that’s proud to have a faculty of experienced business professionals and a curriculum that comes complete with plenty of hands-on learning opportunities.
Cerro Coso Community College
Business and Paralegal Studies
Ridgecrest, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus, online)
AS in Business (on-campus, online)
Also offers: Business Certificate, Entrepreneurship Certificate, AS in Management, Management Certificate
- Small, student-centered learning environment features small class sizes and personal attention
- Flexible and convenient – choose from day, evening, and online classes
Cerro Coso Community College has the business programs you need to jumpstart your career or prepare for future study at the bachelor’s level! Offering an outstanding examination of the functional areas of business, including business operations and business procedures, these programs serve as the foundation for entering the field, advancing in your current position, or preparing for a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field. Whichever path you take, you’ll enjoy a flexible and convenient course of study that includes your choice of on-campus or online courses.
Contra Costa College
Business and Applied Technology Academic and Career Pathway
San Pablo, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus, online)
AS in Business Administration (on-campus, online)
AS in Business Management (on-campus, online)
Also offers: AS in Business Office Technology (Administrative Assistant, General Office), AA in Real Estate, Certificate of Achievement in (Business Administration, Business Management, Business Office Technology-Administrative Assistant, Business Office Technology-Business Information Worker, Business Office Technology-General Office, Real Estate), Noncredit Certificate in Project Management
- Flexible format includes your choice of day, evening, weekend, and online courses
- Designated Hispanic-Serving Institution
Contra Costa College’s associate degrees in business are what convenience and flexibility look like! Offering three programs to prepare you for either seamless transfer to a four-year college or university or for immediate employment in a business-related field, Contra Costa is where you’ll find a program that aligns with your specific educational and career goals. Plus, all three programs are offered in your choice of an on-campus or online format for outstanding convenience and flexibility. Daytime, evening, weekend, and asynchronous online courses are all available at Contra Costa College!
Diablo Valley College
Business, Computer Science and Culinary Arts Interest Area
Pleasant Hill, CA
Website
AS in Business (on-campus, online)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus, online)
Also offers: AA in Music Industry Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Arboriculture Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Landscape Design Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Management and Leadership Studies, Certificate of Achievement in Music Industry Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Nursery and Greenhouse Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Personal Training Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Small Business Management/Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Accomplishment in Cannabis Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Accomplishment in Food Truck Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Accomplishment in Management and Leadership Studies, Certificate of Accomplishment in Small Business Management/Entrepreneurship, Certificate of Achievement in Business Marketing, Certificate of Achievement in Digital Marketing, Certificate of Achievement in Real Estate, Certificate of Accomplishment in Real Estate Salesperson, AS in Professional and Technical Workplace Skills, Certificate of Achievement in Advanced General Business, Certificate of Achievement in Business-Transfer, Certificate of Achievement in Cannabis Studies, Certificate of Achievement in General Business, Certificate of Achievement in Office Professional-Business Information Worker, Certificate of Achievement in Professional and Technical Workplace Skills
- Two, convenient campus locations in Pleasant Hill and San Ramon
- Outstanding transfer services available to targeted student populations with a priority emphasis placed on African-American, Chicano/Latino, American Indian, disabled, low-income, and other underrepresented students
Whatever your professional and personal commitments and educational and career goals, Diablo Valley College has the associate degree in business for you! Offering both an AS – Transfer in Business Administration for students looking to continue their education at the bachelor’s level upon graduation, and an AS in Business for students interested in earning the education that will prepare them to assume managerial and administrative-related jobs upon graduation, Diablo Valley College is where aspiring business managers and leaders head for success! Study on campus or online, at the Pleasant Hill or San Ramon campus for superb convenience and flexibility!
Coalinga College
Coalinga, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business-Management option (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business-Bookkeeping, Business-Management, Business-Retail Business Management
- Excellent assistance and support offered through Coalinga College’s Transfer Services
Wherever your educational and career goals in business take you, Coalinga College has the program for you! Offering an AS – Transfer in Business Administration, which is designed to allow you to seamlessly transfer to a bachelor’s degree in business administration upon graduation, and an AS in Business with a Management option that arms you with the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce upon graduation, Coalinga College’s business programs serve as the solid foundation in business you’ll need to succeed. Marketing, management, accounting, finance, and beyond, your career in business starts here!
Lemoore College
Lemoore, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Administration (on-campus)
AS in Business Management (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Ag Sales Marketing, Business Management, Business Information Worker, Business Bookkeeping, Project Management, Business Management-Retail), AA in Business Office Technologies
- Exciting internship opportunities – college partners with employer in the region
- Excellent student support and assistance – transfer help, tutoring services, academic advising, counseling, and more
Let Lemoore College serve as the starting point to an exciting career in business! Offering no less than three associate degrees in business to align with your career and educational goals, Lemoore College’s business programs provide a solid foundation in the fundamentals of business. Choose the AS if you’re interested in transferring to a four-year college or university; the AS-T if you want a seamless pathway to CSU’s BS in Business Administration; and the AS in Business Management if you’re looking for the degree that will prepare you for immediate entry into the workforce. Choose Lemoore College for your business degree and you’ll enjoy a host of internship opportunities!
Fresno City College
Business Education Division
Fresno, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Administration (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Entrepreneurship, Business Administration Management, Marketing-Retail Management, Marketing-Fashion Merchandising, Marketing), Certificate in Business Administration in (Entrepreneurship Skills, HR Management Assistant, Competencies for Today’s Evolving Workplace), Certificate in Business Administration Management in (Business Finance and Accounting, Business Finance and Investments, HR Management and Human Relations, Management and Supervision, Personal Finance and Investments), Marketing Certificate in (Advertising, Personal Sales, Retailing), AS in Marketing, AS in Marketing (Retail Management, Fashion Merchandising)
- Designated Hispanic-Serving Institution
- Outstanding legacy of academic excellence - first community college in California and the second in the nation
For nearly 115 years, Fresno City College has served tomorrow’s changemakers, trailblazers, and leaders. Today, its AS-Transfer in Business Administration and AS in Business Administration continue this legacy of excellence by providing aspiring business professionals with an outstanding foundation in the fundamentals of business. Whether you’re seeking future study at the bachelor’s level (AS-Transfer) or a career-ready degree (AS), Fresno City College has the program designed with you in mind.
Gavilan College
Business Department
Gilroy, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration (on-campus)
AA in General Business (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in General Business, AA in General Office Skills, Certificate of Achievement in General Office Skills, AA in Medical Office, Certificate of Achievement in Medical Office, AA in Real Estate, Certificate of Achievement in Real Estate, AA in Retail Management, Certificate of Achievement in Retail Management, AS in Business Computer Applications, Certificate of Achievement in Business Computer Applications, AA in Liberal Arts-Business emphasis
A career in the business world is within reach at Gavilan College! Students here have the option of completing an AS – Transfer in Business Administration if they’re looking to move on to a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field upon graduation, or an AA in General Business if they’re interested in earning a career-focused degree in business that will prepare them to immediately begin making a difference in roles related to management, finance, accounting, human resources, entrepreneurship and more.
Columbia College
Business and Entrepreneurship
Sonora, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Management (on-campus)
Also offers: Skills Attainment Certificate-Entrepreneur Business Startup, AS in Entrepreneurship, Skills Attainment Certificate-Entrepreneur E-Marketing, Certificate of Achievement in Entrepreneurship
Columbia College’s associate degrees in business are where tomorrow’s business leaders are born! Whether you’re looking for a program that will seamlessly transfer to a program within a four-year college or university (AS-Transfer) or a program that will ensure you have the solid foundation in business fundamentals to begin or advance your career (AS), Columbia College has the program for you. In addition to providing students with the core concepts and principles of business, these programs deliver important computer skills and an examination of topics like financial accounting, managerial accounting, business law, and more.
Modesto Junior College
School of Business and Computing, Business Administration Department
Modesto, CA
Website
AS in Business Administration (on-campus)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Entrepreneurship, International Business, Retail Management, Supervisory Management), HR Skills Recognition, AS in Business Operations Management, AS in Marketing
- Outstanding, 100-year academic legacy
- Expansive community college system serves nearly 25,000 students each year
Modesto Junior College has the business program to propel you towards an exciting career in the dynamic business world! Offering two associate degrees in business administration, one of which is specially designed to provide students with a solid foundation for future study at the bachelor’s level in the CSU system (AS-T), and the other that’s designed for seamless transfer opportunities outside of the CSU system (AS), Modest Junior College’s business programs are the ideal precursor to a bachelor’s degree, largely seen as the standard education for careers in business management, administration, finance, accounting, human resources, and beyond.
Merced College
School of Business and Economics
Merced, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration (on-campus, online)
AA in General Business (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate in General Business, AA in Small Business Entrepreneurship, Certificate in Small Business Entrepreneurship, AA in Small Business Entrepreneurship, Certificate in Small Business Entrepreneurship, AA in Management/Supervisory Training, Certificate in Management/Supervisory Training, AS in Marketing, Certificate in Marketing
- Two, convenient campus locations
- Home to more than 40 student clubs and organizations
Merced College is your ticket to the dynamic, hyper-competitive business world. This community college system is home to two programs —the AS-Transfer in Business Administration for students with plans of transferring to a bachelor’s degree in a business-related area upon graduation, and an AA in General Business for students who are looking for a career-focused program that will arm them with the foundational business skills that make them an asset in nearly any industry. Merced College is the place for transfers! Last year alone, nearly 150 graduates transferred into the CSU and UC systems.
Clovis Community College
Business Industry and Information Technology Career Pathway
Fresno, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration (on-campus)
AS in Business Administration with concentrations in (Accounting, Entrepreneur, General Business, Information System Management, Management, Marketing) (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in Business Administration-Managerial Assistant
- College recognized for six consecutive years for its outstanding transfer rates by the Campaign for College Opportunity
- Ranked among the top community colleges in the nation by the Aspen institute
Accounting, marketing, management, finance, and beyond, Clovis Community College’s associate degrees in business prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s successes in a variety of fields and industries. Whether your plans include earning the degree that will prepare you for a four-year degree or for an introduction to the business world, Clovis Community College’s business programs are designed to align perfectly with your educational and career goals. Choose Clovis Community College and you’ll learn from instructors with real-world business experience and enjoy courses that are delivered in a variety of formats, including on-campus, online, and hybrid.
College of Alameda
Business and Accounting Department
Alameda, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: AA in Accounting, Certificate of Proficiency in Business-Small Business Administration
- Exceptional student services and resources available through the Welcome Center – financial aid, counseling, transfer assistance, and more
The College of Alameda’s AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 is the beginning of your educational journey in business! This dynamic course of study includes all the general education and basic business foundation courses you’ll need to seamlessly transfer to a bachelor’s degree in business at a four-year college or university. The ideal way to save money on your college education, the AS – Transfer is your secret to academic success!
College of the Sequoias
Business Division
Visalia, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business, Business Financial Recordkeeping)
- Exciting internship opportunities available through the COS Business Internship Program
- Superb support available through the Peer to Peer mentorship program
What do you want to accomplish with an associate’s degree in business? The College of the Sequoias offers two business degrees that are designed to align perfectly with your future plans. If you want a program that will prepare you for future study at the bachelor’s level, the AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 is the program for you. If you want to use an associate’s degree as the springboard to your first or next job, choose the AS in Business. Add an internship to your degree program and you’ll be prepared for success in the dynamic and competitive business world.
Madera Community College
Business and Information Systems
Madera, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
AS in Business Administration (Entrepreneur, Information Systems Management, Management, Marketing, General Business) (on-campus)
Also offers: AS-T in Agriculture Business, AS in Administrative Assistance, AS in Agriculture Business, Certificate of Achievement in (Administrative Assistant, Business Foundations, Entry Level Business Skills, Fundamental Skills of Management in Hospitality, Managerial Assistant, Medical Administrative Assistant, Office Assistant), Certificate in Hospitality Management
- Online and in-person tutoring services available through the Learning Center
Madera Community College understands the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s business professionals, which is why they offer two programs aimed at your educational and professional success. The AS – Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 is designed to seamlessly transfer to a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field, while the AS in Business Administration is designed to prepare you for immediate employment in the field upon graduation. The AS in Business Administration features study in the foundations of business and the role that management plays in effective business operations and comes complete with options to specialize in one of five areas.
Reedley College
Business Pathway
Reedley, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0
AS in Business Administration (Accounting, Entrepreneur, General Business, Management, Marketing) (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Administration-Foundations, Business Intern, Business Foundations, Small Business), Certificate in Entry Level Management
- Designated Hispanic-Serving Institution
- Real-world business programs taught by instructors with extensive business experience
There’s no better place than Reedley College to begin exploring where a career in business can take you. Offering two associate degrees in business, one of which is designed for transfer to a four-year college or university (AS-T) and the other which is designed as a career-ready degree, Reedley College’s business programs provide students with a comprehensive exploration of modern business and management theories and topics like accounting, economics, management, and computer information systems. These “real world” programs are taught by experienced instructors and supported by local and national business leaders.
Foothill College
Business and Social Sciences Division
Los Altos Hills, CA
Website
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus, online)
AA in Business Administration (on-campus, online)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Digital Marketing, Payroll Preparation)
- Average class size of just 24 students
- Superb faculty of real-world practitioners – learn from local leaders, VCs, and entrepreneurs
Whether on-campus or online study is right for you, Foothill College has the program in business administration for you! Offering both the AA in Business Administration, which serves as an outstanding program for immediate employment, or the AS – Transfer in Business Administration, which provides a seamless path to the BS in Business Administration in the CSU system, Foothill College has what you need to succeed in the world of business! Other perks of being a business student here includes classes taught by local industry leaders, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurs; a contemporary curriculum covering topics like marketing, management, finance, and international business; and the opportunity to get involved and solve real-world business problems through the school’s Business Case Competition.
De Anza College
Business Computer Science and Applied Technologies Division
Cupertino, CA
Website
AA in Business Administration (on-campus, online)
AS-Transfer in Business Administration 2.0 (on-campus)
Also offers: Certificate of Achievement in (Business Administration, Business Information Worker, Entrepreneurship, Management, Management Information Systems Support, Marketing Management), AA in Management, AA in Marketing Management
- Highest transfer rate of all Silicon Valley community colleges and among the top statewide for transfers to private universities and the UC and CSU systems
- Outstanding student support includes 24/7 online tutoring peer tutoring, study skills workshops, and more
De Anza College offers two options for your business education: the career-focused AA in Business Administration and the transfer-friendly AS -Transfer in Business Administration. Ranked among the top schools in the state for its high transfer rate to UC, CSU, and private universities according to stats by the Public Policy Institute of California, De Anza College boasts a dedicated faculty of practitioners; state-of-the-art facilities and equipment; dedicated counselors, and plentiful support services.