Butler County Community College: A Comprehensive Overview

Butler County Community College (BC3), established in 1965, holds the distinction of being the first community college in Western Pennsylvania. Located in Butler Township, Pennsylvania, BC3 also extends its educational reach to Cranberry Township, as well as Lawrence, Mercer, and Jefferson counties, offering students the flexibility to attend courses at multiple campuses.

A Brief History and Overview

BC3 opened its doors on September 26, 1966, welcoming 242 day students and 190 evening students. Today, the college has grown significantly, with more than 4,400 students enrolled in credit programs. The main campus is situated on 323 acres along Decatur Drive in Butler Township, easily accessible from major highways.

Academic Programs and Offerings

BC3 provides a diverse range of academic programs, with over 2,000 credit students enrolled in 53 associate degree programs, as well as 26 certificate or workplace certificate programs. These programs span various fields, including:

Business
Education and Behavioral Sciences
Health Care
Liberal Arts
STEM

The college also offers courses in Graphic Design, Creative Digital Communication, Business Administration, General Studies, Business Management, Criminology, Photography, Psychology, Pre-nursing, Social Work, and Elementary Education.

High School Programming

BC3 extends its educational reach to high school students, with approximately 450 students earning college credits through its high school programming.

Read also: Your Guide to Butler Admissions

Non-Credit Programs

In addition to credit programs, BC3 offers a wide array of non-credit opportunities, with approximately 15,000 people participating annually in:

Business and industry training
Public safety training
Lifelong learning opportunities
Professional development courses

Accreditation

Butler County Community College is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring the quality and credibility of its programs. BC3 is also nationally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Admissions and Enrollment

BC3 has an open admissions policy, welcoming students who have a high school diploma, GED/HiSET scores, or the ability to benefit. The college utilizes a semester-based academic year, providing a structured learning environment.

Student Demographics

The total number of entering students in Fall 2023 was 1,232. Student life statistics from Fall 2022 indicate:

Full-time enrollment: 1,113
Part-time enrollment: 1,871

The college also provides services such as academic/career counseling, placement services, and on-campus day care for students' children.

Read also: Unlock Your Potential

Transfer Opportunities

BC3 facilitates student transfer to four-year institutions through formal articulation agreements with many colleges and universities. These agreements ensure certain considerations for students transferring to senior institutions. 12 programs transfer to the PASSHE universities and select opt-in colleges.

Credit for Life Experiences

BC3 recognizes the value of prior learning experiences and offers credit for life experience gained through work, volunteer activities, military service, or training. To receive credit, students must submit an e-portfolio demonstrating that they have met course objectives and pay a $150 evaluation fee. This option is applicable for those applying to the selective admissions programs of Massage Therapy, Nursing (PN or RN), or Physical Therapist Assistant.

Transfer Credit Policy

BC3 accepts credit for graded courses taken at most accredited, degree-granting institutions. For courses to be accepted in transfer, they must be listed on a college transcript with a grade of A, B, or C. One D may be accepted if approved by the V.P.

Financial Aid and Tuition

Financial aid options at BC3 include grants, student loans, federal work-study, scholarships from third-party agencies, or a combination of these. In the 2022-2023 academic year, 44 percent of undergraduates received grant or scholarship aid, with the average award being $4,455.

Tuition and fees for the 2020-2021 academic year were:

In-district: $5,250
In-state: $8,450
Out-of-state: $11,450

The application fee is $25.

Campus Life and Resources

BC3 offers a variety of resources and facilities to enhance the student experience:

Locations

BC3 has locations in Butler, Brockway, Cranberry Township, Ford City, Hermitage, and New Castle, making education accessible to students in various communities. Students are able to take courses at multiple campuses if convenient.

Student-Faculty Ratio

The student-faculty ratio is 11-to-1, providing students with personalized attention and support from instructors.

Library

The John A. Beck, Jr. Library offers a comprehensive collection of print and non-print materials, supporting the curricular and recreational needs of students and employees.

Bookstore

The Bookstore, located on the second floor of the Student Success Center, sells textbooks, educational supplies, clothing, cards, and gifts.

Student Union

The Student Union, located in the lower level of Founders Hall, provides a space for students to eat, relax, and socialize.

Cultural Center

The Cultural Center at BC3, housed in the Science and Technology building, includes the Succop Theater and the Mary Hulton Phillips Gallery, offering a variety of programs and exhibits.

Business Learning Center

The Business Learning Center (BLC), located in the upper level of the Business and Health Professions Building, provides individualized, self-paced learning opportunities for students.

Technology Independent Study Lab

The Technology Independent Study Lab (TISL) is a computer/Internet Lab designed primarily for technology student use.

Field House

The Field House is home to the college’s athletic, intramural, and physical education programs, offering facilities for various sports and fitness activities.

Continuing Education

The Continuing Education division at BC3 offers a wide range of non-credit courses and programs to meet the educational needs of the community. These programs include:

Lifelong Learning
Adult Literacy
Professional Education & Certificate Programs
Business & Industry Training Institute
Public Safety
College Within the High School
Kids on Campus

Adult & Community Education

The Adult & Community Education program promotes lifelong learning and offers classes that expand knowledge, enhance skills, and enrich personal life experiences.

Adult Literacy Program

The Adult Literacy program assists adults in meeting basic education needs by providing free instruction, flexible scheduling, and opportunities to improve personal and workplace skills.

Professional Education & Certificate Programs

BC3’s Office of Professional Education & Certificate Programs offers noncredit courses and programs designed to meet learning and professional development needs.

Business & Industry Training Institute

BC3 delivers quality training and education to the Western Pennsylvania Workforce through its Business & Industry Training Institute.

Public Safety

The Emergency Medical Services/Police Division is an integrated part of Public Safety, offering certification programs and continuing education programs.

Business and Industry Safety Training Programs

The Business and Industry Safety Training Programs provides a variety of industrial and commercial training courses designed to satisfy the requirements of regulatory agencies.

College Within the High School

Butler County Community College’s College Within the High School program is specifically designed for college bound high school students who have demonstrated a strong academic performance.

Kids on Campus Program

The Kids on Campus Program offers year round enrichment classes and learning opportunities for children.

Additional Information

BC3 is a 501(C)(3) charitable organization and is responsible for fundraising for the College. It is managed by a 21 member volunteer Board of Directors consisting of community leaders committed to the success of the College. The Butler County Community College Alumni Association was established in 1998 to enhance the relationship between the College, former students, and the community.

tags: #butler #county #community #college #overview