Prince George's Community College (PGCC) vs Howard CC

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Prince George's Community College (PGCC) and Howard Community College (HCC)?

  PGCC and HCC both offer excellent educational opportunities, but they differ in several key areas. PGCC is located in Largo, Maryland, serving Prince George's County, and has a larger student body with a more diverse range of programs, including specialized vocational training. HCC, located in Columbia, Maryland, focuses on Howard County and is known for its strong transfer programs to four-year universities and its emphasis on arts and humanities. HCC generally has a reputation for a more suburban, community-focused environment, while PGCC serves a more urban and diverse population.

• Which college is more affordable: PGCC or HCC?

  Generally, community colleges are more affordable than four-year institutions. However, tuition and fees can vary. It's best to check the most current tuition rates on each college's website (pgcc.edu and howardcc.edu). In general, in-county tuition will be the lowest, followed by in-state, and then out-of-state. Also, consider the cost of living in each area, as that can impact your overall expenses.

• Which college has better transfer programs to four-year universities?

  Both PGCC and HCC have strong transfer programs. HCC is particularly well-regarded for its transfer agreements with institutions like the University of Maryland, College Park, and other Maryland universities. PGCC also has articulation agreements with numerous four-year colleges and universities, both in Maryland and out of state. The 'better' program depends on your intended transfer institution and major. Research which college has the strongest articulation agreement with your target university for your specific field of study.

• What types of academic programs do PGCC and HCC offer?

  Both colleges offer a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs. PGCC has a broader selection of vocational and technical programs, including automotive technology, culinary arts, and healthcare-related fields. HCC is known for its strong arts and humanities programs, as well as its business and technology offerings. Both colleges offer core academic courses suitable for transfer to a four-year university.

• What is the campus environment like at PGCC versus HCC?

  PGCC's campus in Largo is more urban and serves a diverse student population. It has a larger campus with a wider array of facilities. HCC's campus in Columbia has a more suburban feel and is known for its well-maintained grounds and modern facilities. HCC fosters a strong sense of community and offers numerous student activities and events. PGCC also offers student activities, but the overall atmosphere is often perceived as more commuter-focused.

• Which college has better student support services?

  Both PGCC and HCC offer comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, disability support, and financial aid assistance. HCC is often praised for its personalized attention and strong advising programs. PGCC, due to its larger size, may have a wider range of specialized support services, but accessing them might require more initiative on the student's part. It's best to visit each campus and speak with student services representatives to determine which college's support system best meets your individual needs.

• What are the class sizes like at PGCC and HCC?

  Community colleges generally aim for smaller class sizes than four-year universities to provide more individualized attention. While class sizes can vary depending on the course, HCC generally has slightly smaller class sizes compared to PGCC. This can lead to more opportunities for interaction with instructors and classmates at HCC. However, both colleges strive to maintain manageable class sizes to ensure a quality learning environment.

• How do I decide which college is right for me: PGCC or HCC?

  The best way to decide is to visit both campuses, speak with current students and faculty, and research the specific programs you're interested in. Consider factors such as location, cost, program offerings, campus environment, and student support services. Think about your academic goals, learning style, and personal preferences. Ultimately, the right college for you is the one that best aligns with your individual needs and aspirations.

• Do PGCC and HCC offer online courses?

  Yes, both PGCC and HCC offer a variety of online courses. The availability of specific courses online may vary between the two colleges. Check each college's website for their online course catalog to see which courses are offered in an online format.

• Are there specific programs that one college is known for over the other?

  Yes. HCC is often recognized for its strong arts and humanities programs, particularly its visual and performing arts. PGCC has a strong reputation for its vocational and technical programs, such as automotive technology, culinary arts, and various healthcare programs. If you have a specific career path in mind, research which college has a more established and reputable program in that field.