Our History
In 1916, Sacramento City College (SCC) was founded as a department of Sacramento High School. Rare for its time, SCC was founded by a woman (Belle Cooledge) and with an all-female class as its first graduates, the college began with the spirit of inclusion at its very heart. With more than a century of serving students under its belt, SCC is the seventh oldest community college in California and the oldest institution of higher learning in Sacramento.
“My wish for you all is that you may take the spirit of endeavor and desire to succeed which we have watched grow in you, to your future undertakings, and that happiness and success may be your reward.” –Belle Cooledge, Dean of Women, The Pioneer 1931
First known as Sacramento Junior College, Cooledge founded the college to provide a safe, welcoming place for students to learn the basics for a college education, and to be a gathering spot for extra-curricular activities that would bring the community together. With this founding principle, Sacramento Junior College opened in 1916 on the top floor of Sacramento High School with 46 students and 16 part-time instructors.
The college eventually found its permanent home at the corner of Sutterville and Freeport where it opened its doors to students in 1926.
Today, we continue our proud history as a pioneer in the region for diversity, quality education and community partnership.
Accreditation
Sacramento City College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Certification
Sacramento City College is authorized under the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to accept, and enroll non-immigrant students.
President's Message
The mission of the President’s Office of Sacramento City College is to provide leadership for the operation of the college, support the Mission, Vision, and Values of the college, work collaboratively with sister colleges in the Los Rios Community College District, and contribute to the mission of the Los Rios Community College District.
Special Collections
Special Collections collects records of the college, unique local artifacts, and other materials documenting the history of the college and surrounding area, and makes them available to the college community and external researchers.