Pikes Peak Community College has officially changed its name to Pikes Peak State College.
With that comes plans for new programs and new facilities, expanded student services,
and an increase its capacity to serve local in-demand jobs.
Why the name change? The college has continued to evolve since its inception as El
Paso Community College in 1968. The name reflects the expansion into four-year degrees
and its elevated role in the workforce, as well as its image and value among students
and employers.
"Like hundreds of other community colleges throughout the country and several in Colorado,
we've found that the word 'community' unfairly cast our institution as a second choice,"
said Pikes Peak State President Lance Bolton. "But when a college starts offering
four-year degrees, and earning the kind of statewide and national reputation ours
has, the name should reflect that.
"It's our hope that the new name, Pikes Peak State College, will fuel enrollment growth
and growth in gifts to our foundation," he said.
Bolton also emphasized what's not changing:
- The college's focus on two-year degrees and certificates (and even shorter-term certificates).
- The low cost.
- Open admission, enrolling all who apply.
New programs starting this fall include: Industrial Mechatronic Maintenance; Health,
Wellness & Fitness; Health & Wellness Coach; Personal Trainer; and Physical Therapy
Assistant
Other two-year programs in the works include: Aerospace Engineering (expected Fall
2023), Remote Pilot (Drone) Certificate, Mechanical Engineering, and General Engineering.
New upcoming bachelor's programs include:
• Radiology: Tentative 2024
• Healthcare Management: In planning phase
• Healthcare Informatics: In planning phase
• Respiratory Therapy: In planning phase
• Cybersecurity: 2024
• Education: 2024
• Business: 2024
Phase Two of the Center for Healthcare Education and Simulation remodel will be completed
this fall and will house the EMS, Medical Assistant, Med Office,Nursing, Pharmacy
Tech, Phlebotomy, Physical Therapy Assistant and Surgical Tech programs.
The Downtown Campus renovation is complete with new classrooms, a learning commons,
and common spaces, and will soon house all computer science classes.
The college is on the verge of becoming the Pikes Peak region's first Hispanic Serving
Institution, a designation given to colleges that reach 25 percent in Latinx student
representation. We're currently at 23.7%.
About Pikes Peak State College
Established in 1968 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Pikes Peak offers
associate degrees, certifications in career and technical fields and three bachelors’
degrees. With three campuses, various off-campus locations, two military education
centers, and hundreds of online classes, PPSC provides access to a quality, affordable
and flexible education to more than 18,000 students annually with both credit and
non-credit classes.
