These institutions did not develop until the early 20th century when the global market began to expand. Local communities recognized that the expansion created a need for more skilled workers. The first community colleges developed as high schools added vocational training. Smaller colleges, such as Vincennes University in Indiana, also saw a need for smaller classes, with a combination of academics and extracurricular activities, fueling the rise of community colleges.
The schools aim to educate residents of the communities they serve in fields such as electrical, plumbing, computer technologies, health care and other skilled trades. Upon completion, students are eligible to take licensing exams, where required, seek employment or, in some cases, continue their education at a four-year college. For example, a student studying to become an electrician can qualify to take the state electricians examination or enter into a state apprenticeship program. A person receiving an associate degree in nursing can take the state licensure exam. The programs typically can be completed in two years or less and graduates are ready to start working immediately.
As of 2011, there are more than 1,100 such schools around the nation. About a 1,000 are supported by public funds, while the rest are private colleges. More than 11 million students were enrolled in 2007 and admissions continue to grow. As of 2009, 40 percent of the students were full-time, with an average age of 28.
As more and more employers require some sort of postsecondary education, community colleges are expected to see growth. By 2014, most of the new jobs created will require workers to have some college, according to the American Association of Community Colleges. Plus, with the explosion of online colleges and programs, getting a degree is easier than ever, even for those in rural locations. Many of the schools are shifting their focuses to technology programs and emerging industries. However, the skilled trade courses are expected to continue on campus because of the hands-on learning required.