Massasoit Community College

With a number of alumni distinguished in athletics, including the NHL's Jim Craig, major league baseball player Jim Mann, and soccer presence John Murphy, it is no surprise that Massasoit Community College has an exemplary record in sports - which currently includes three national titles. However, despite its athletics-based notoriety, Massasoit also provides a vibrant, academic community throughout three campuses in southeastern Massachusetts.

With an enrollment of just over 10,000 students, Massasoit demonstrates a holistic understanding of the needs of its student body, offering a wide variety of options that enable learners from a diversity of demographics the opportunity to earn degrees and certifications. Certificate programs are categorized as either short or long term depending on the amount of time they take to complete; distance courses and "hybrid" courses are also available.

Students may choose to attend Massasoit's daytime courses, but in those cases where this is not an option, the college offers both night and weekend classes that contribute towards an Associate's degree with less time spent in the classroom. Its dual-enrollment program is popular among local high school students striving to jump-start their college experience and eventual career, while workforce training and GED exams are also offered through Massasoit. These programs were clearly initiated to echo the needs of a student population where 50 percent of enrollees are above or below traditional college age.

Massasoit's extreme diversity in student population and course options make it appealing to international students as well. With the multicultural students office located on the Brockton campus, as well as easy public transportation to and from Boston from the Brockton and Canton campuses, it has been popular with international students, particularly those who excel in sports. The Multicultural Touch Club focuses on helping these students network with the rest of Massasoit's student population while also offering them a comfortable source of community and support.

Of course, the college's work towards creating this sort of culture isn't limited solely to international students. Many of its other student groups – including Hearts for Haiti, the Gay-Straight Alliance, and the Mary E. Baker Unity Club - focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for community participants of all identities. Other organizations promote success in particular fields, such as the Culinary/Hospitality Club and the Artist's Union. For those students who are interested in meeting others who share their recreational interests rather than cultural or professional ones, there are also plenty of offerings focused around sources of media, including a club devoted to anime and manga.

Although Massasoit is a relatively new community college, only founded in 1966, its contribution to the small towns surrounding its campuses has been significant. In addition to the educational opportunities it provides to adults and young adults seeking to further their careers, a number of non-credit courses are offered targeting nearby seniors and children, offering a chance to make new connections in the area.