It's the largest institution of its type in Michigan. Community or junior colleges are ideal for students like Boilore, who want a basic education at a reasonable price. Schools like Oakland Community College generally offer the first two years of a liberal arts education, in addition to specialized occupational preparation. OCC offers degrees and certificates in more than 90 career fields. At the end of a two-year program of study, an associate degree is awarded.
Many students continue their education at four-year institutions.
Community colleges accept virtually all interested students who have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and even that requirement is sometimes waived for applicants above a certain age. Some open-admissions institutions have selective requirements for specific programs, such as nursing. Barbara Einhardt, a counselor at OCC's Royal Oak campus, said that makes the schools ideal for anyone with a willingness to learn, despite their academic backgrounds. The idea is to provide academic support to help students succeed, no matter what their age or outside responsibilities. Einhardt said that philosophy is reflected in an open admissions policy, student-centered instruction and flexible curricula.