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GateWay Community College

Phoenix, AZ

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Quick Facts

3,473
Total Students
$2K
Tuition (In-State)
$9K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
20%
Graduation Rate
6-year
61%
Retention Rate
Associate's Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About GateWay Community College

Arizona's first technical college: career-focused education with convenient light rail access.

GateWay Community College, located in vibrant Phoenix, Arizona, stands out as a key institution within the Maricopa County Community College District. Known for its practical, career-focused approach, GateWay champions "Education that works, so you learn more, live better." It offers a wide array of programs designed to prepare students directly for the workforce or for further academic pursuits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking tangible skills and career readiness.

The college boasts a rich history, originally established in 1968 as Maricopa Technical College. This made it the very first technical college in Arizona, setting a precedent for hands-on, skills-based education. Rebranded as GateWay Community College in 1987, it continued to expand its offerings, incorporating significant facilities like the Automotive Center and the Center for Health Careers Education. In 2016, its commitment to technical training was reinforced by rebranding the Maricopa Skill Center as GateWay's Trade and Technical Training Division.

Academically, GateWay is recognized for its strong ties to career development, with a comprehensive Trade and Technical Training Division offering many valuable programs. For ambitious younger students, GateWay Early College High School (GWECHS) provides a unique opportunity to earn college credits and even an associate degree while still in high school. The student experience is enhanced by its urban campus setting, the convenience of a Valley Metro Light Rail stop directly on campus, and a vibrant community identified by their "Geckos" nickname and active participation in the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1968 as Arizona's first technical college, originally named Maricopa Technical College.
  • One of ten regionally accredited colleges within the Maricopa County Community College District.
  • Home to the comprehensive Trade and Technical Training Division, focusing on hands-on career education.
  • The only Maricopa Community College with a Valley Metro Light Rail stop directly on campus, enhancing accessibility.
  • Hosts GateWay Early College High School, allowing students to earn college credits and associate degrees concurrently.
  • Serves approximately 12,000 students, offering diverse educational pathways.
  • Motto: "Education that works, so you learn more, live better."

Timeline

1968
Established as Maricopa Technical College, the first technical college in Arizona.
1971
Received NCA accreditation on July 30.
1987
Maricopa Technical College officially became GateWay Community College on May 1.
1989
The Automotive Center was added to the campus.
1997
GateWay Early College High School (GWECHS) received its NCA accreditation on April 1.
1998
The Children's Learning Center and Central Plant were added to the campus.
1999
The Center for Health Careers Education was added.
2008
The first GWECHS class graduated in May.
2016
The Maricopa Skill Center was rebranded as the Trade and Technical Training Division of GateWay Community College.

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within GateWay Community College

🏫

Trade and Technical Training Division

Offering a wide array of career-focused programs, formerly known as the Maricopa Skill Center.

📚

Center for Health Careers Education

A dedicated facility established in 1999 for health-related professional training.

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