Roxbury Community College

Quick Facts

Public community college with open access and strong transfer programs

Location

Boston, MA (Roxbury Crossing)

Degrees

Certificates, Associate's

Popular Majors

Liberal Arts/General Studies, Nursing, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, Computer Science

Total Students

Undergrad Students

~2,000

All undergraduate

Tuition (2025-2026, in-state full-time)

Room and Board

$6,096

No on-campus housing

Selectivity

Average Net Price *

Open Admission

$9,000

Distance from Boston

School Website

In Boston

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* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

Roxbury Community College (RCC), founded in 1973, is a public two-year institution in Boston's Roxbury Crossing neighborhood. As an open-access college, RCC provides affordable pathways to associate degrees, certificates, workforce training, and seamless transfer to four-year universities. The college emphasizes equity, inclusion, and student success for a diverse population including first-generation, working, and international learners.

RCC offers over 30 academic programs, with popular pathways in liberal arts for transfer, nursing, business, criminal justice, early childhood education, and computer science.

The college supports flexible learning with day, evening, weekend, online, and hybrid courses to accommodate busy schedules.

As a community college, RCC specializes in two-year degrees with strong articulation agreements to Massachusetts public universities and private partners.

RCC fields competitive NJCAA teams in basketball, soccer, and other sports.

The urban Boston campus offers modern facilities with easy public transit access.

 

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Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Transfer Pathways>

International Students>

Visiting Roxbury Community College>

 

Academics

Roxbury Community College offers accessible, high-quality education through more than 30 associate degree and certificate programs designed for transfer or direct workforce entry. Popular options include Liberal Arts/General Studies (for seamless university transfer), Nursing, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, and Computer Science. Classes are available in multiple formats—day, evening, weekend, online, and hybrid—to support working adults and commuters. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while free tutoring, learning communities, honors courses, and service-learning projects enhance engagement. RCC's focus on career readiness and academic foundations prepares students for immediate employment or successful transfer to bachelor's programs.

Admission

Roxbury Community College maintains an open admission policy, welcoming all applicants with a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent—no entrance exams or minimum GPA required for most programs. Applications are free and accepted year-round on a rolling basis, with recommended deadlines for financial aid and selective health programs (e.g., Nursing requires additional steps like TEAS exam and prerequisites). Placement testing in English and math helps determine starting course levels, with support available for skill-building. International students follow specific guidelines for transcripts and English proficiency. This accessible approach makes RCC an ideal starting point for first-generation college students, adult learners, veterans, and those seeking a second chance at higher education.

Career Outcomes

Roxbury graduates achieve strong results, with many entering the workforce directly in high-demand fields or transferring to complete bachelor's degrees. Career services provide resume assistance, job fairs, internship connections, and employer partnerships in Boston and surrounding areas. Popular pathways lead to roles in healthcare, business, public safety, education, and technology. The college's workforce training programs and certificates align with regional needs, offering quick entry into growing sectors. Transfer students benefit from guaranteed admission agreements (MassTransfer) to Massachusetts public universities, ensuring smooth progression and credit acceptance. Alumni report high satisfaction with RCC's practical preparation and support for long-term success.

Campus

Roxbury Community College's urban Boston campus features modern buildings, updated classrooms, science labs, library, fitness center, and student lounges in Roxbury Crossing. The campus offers commuter-friendly access with nearby public transit (Orange Line). Facilities support day and evening classes with technology-enabled spaces. Partnerships with nearby institutions enrich resources. The location reflects RCC's community mission—welcoming, diverse, and focused on student achievement in an accessible city setting.

Student Life

Roxbury fosters an inclusive, supportive community for its diverse commuter population, with students from varied backgrounds and many countries. Over 50 clubs and organizations—covering cultural, academic, leadership, and special interest groups—offer ways to connect and lead. Events like cultural festivals, guest speakers, wellness workshops, and service projects build community. Athletics include competitive NJCAA teams in basketball, soccer, and other sports. Support services such as food pantry, counseling, childcare assistance, and veteran resources address real needs. While primarily commuter-focused, the college fosters belonging through lounges, activities, and advocacy for student voices.

Transfer Pathways

Roxbury excels in preparing students for successful transfer to four-year institutions through MassTransfer and articulation agreements. Qualifying graduates receive guaranteed admission, credit transfer, and tuition discounts at Massachusetts public universities. Dedicated advising ensures smooth transitions.

International Students

Roxbury Community College hosts a growing international community from dozens of countries, contributing diverse perspectives to campus life and learning. The college provides dedicated support for international learners pursuing affordable U.S. education with pathways to careers or transfer. For more information about studying at Boston colleges click here.

Admissions
International applicants apply through standard channels with English proficiency and transcript evaluation.

Support Services
International office provides visa, orientation, and cultural support.

Scholarships and Aid
Merit awards available; limited need-based.

Student Life
Clubs and events for integration.

Visiting Roxbury Community College

Roxbury Community College welcomes visitors for campus tours and information sessions in Roxbury Crossing. Register online. For more information about visiting Boston colleges click here.

Recommended Hotels Near Roxbury Community College

Hotel Description Price Range Link
Holiday Inn Express Boston Convenient urban location. $200–$400 ihg.com