About SMC
Welcome to Santa Monica College
At SMC, we believe in a smarter kind of higher education. The kind that makes college learning not just fresh and exciting, but affordable and relevant to our students.
For more than 90 years, Santa Monica College has been making a difference in the lives of students from all walks of life. A pioneer of the uniquely American community college movement of the early 20th century, SMC is recognized today as a cutting-edge leader in both academic and workforce education. For more than 32 years, we’ve led the nation in transferring students to the prestigious University of California system.
Find out what makes SMC different.
SMC at a Glance
1929
Date Established
25,516
Number of Students
57%
First-Generation Students
Santa Monica, CA
Location
24:1
Student:Faculty Ratio
67%
Part-Time Students
The Difference in Quality
SMC offers a world-class education that focuses on the basics.
A challenging and stimulating curriculum
Distinguished faculty representing the best in their fields
More than 200 degrees and certificates
The Difference in Cost
A good college education shouldn’t break the bank.
$50
Million in financial aid and scholarships
$1,785
Average financial aid package
66%
First-year out-of-state students receive aid
$46
Per unit for California residents
2
Free years of college for recent high school graduates
44%
California residents with a fee waiver
The Difference in the College Transfer Experience
As one of California’s leading community colleges, SMC specializes in the first two years of the baccalaureate degree. We make sure students are ready to transfer to top public and private institutions to continue their college education. For many years, our students have transferred successfully to UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, USC, Columbia University, and other prestigious four-year institutions.
SMC is the #1 Transfer College to University of California campuses, Loyola Marymount
University, University of Southern California, and more!
Francis Villanueva
Transfer to UCLA
Haleluyah Etienne
Transfer to USC
Kamyar Vazir
Transfer to Columbia University School of General Studies
"During my years at SMC, I found a great academic education and compassion. I had counselors who were there every step of the way and helped me find my true path. I felt safe going to my professors for help, and even found a good community of supportive friends."
Degrees and Certificates Programs
Santa Monica College offers more than 200 degrees and certificates, including a Bachelor Degree in Interaction Design.
The Difference in Support
We are committed to seeing our students succeed, both in the classroom and in life. That’s why SMC has the largest student support network of any community college in California.
With more than 55 offices and programs focusing on academics, health and wellbeing, housing, and nutrition, we can help you hone your academic skills, map out your transfer pathway, plan your career, and make the most of the opportunities we offer.
Located in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica College is located in the coastal city of Santa Monica, California. The Main Campus, located at 1900 Pico Blvd., is the central location for most of Santa Monica College's classes and services.
SMC Main Campus
Airport Campus
Bundy Campus
Center for Media and Design
Emeritus Campus
Malibu Campus
Performing Arts Center
History of SMC
The end of the Roaring Twenties ushered in the Great Depression, the first Academy Awards were held, and a certain Santa Monica Junior College opened its doors to 153 students. Evolving missions led to new names — “Santa Monica City College” — and eventually “Santa Monica College,” to reflect the College’s service to the Westside, and to the Greater Los Angeles.
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