Crafton Hills College
Crafton Hills College: A Comprehensive Overview
Empowering Students in the Inland Empire
Introduction
Nestled in the scenic foothills of Yucaipa, California, Crafton Hills College (CHC) is a thriving public community college in the Inland Empire region. As part of the San Bernardino Community College District, CHC has built a strong reputation for delivering quality education, personalized support, and a pathway to academic and career success. Since opening its doors in 1972, Crafton Hills College has served thousands of students with a diverse range of academic and vocational programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of its community.
This detailed guide explores CHC’s academic offerings, campus resources, student life, transfer pathways, and workforce development programs. Whether you're a recent high school graduate, a returning adult learner, or an aspiring transfer student, Crafton Hills College provides an inclusive and empowering environment to help you succeed.
History and Mission:
Founded in 1972, Crafton Hills College was established to meet the growing educational demands of the East San Bernardino Valley. Since its inception, the college has expanded its offerings, upgraded its infrastructure, and become an integral part of the region’s educational and economic landscape.
Mission Statement:
Crafton Hills College is committed to advancing the educational, career, and personal success of diverse students through engagement and learning. The college values equity, academic excellence, and the holistic development of each student.
Campus and Location
CHC’s campus is one of the most beautiful in the California community college system. Located on 523 acres of rolling hills in Yucaipa, it offers students a serene environment ideal for learning and reflection. The natural setting includes panoramic views, hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Key features of the campus include:
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Modern classroom buildings and laboratories
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The Learning Resource Center (library and tutoring hub)
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The Public Safety and Allied Health Building
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A state-of-the-art aquatic center and gymnasium
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The Finkelstein Performing Arts Center
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Ample student gathering spaces and green areas
The college is easily accessible from nearby cities like Redlands, San Bernardino, and Riverside, with public transportation and freeway connections.
Academic Programs:
Crafton Hills College offers a robust selection of associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs across several disciplines. CHC’s curriculum supports both academic transfer and direct entry into the workforce.
1. Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT)
CHC offers Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) and Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees that guarantee admission to the California State University (CSU) system.
Popular ADT programs include:
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Business Administration
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Psychology
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Sociology
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Political Science
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Communication Studies
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Mathematics
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Early Childhood Education
These degrees streamline the transfer process to CSU campuses, allowing students to complete their bachelor’s degrees in just two more years.
2. Associate Degrees and Certificates
Students may also pursue traditional associate degrees (AA or AS) or short-term vocational certificates in fields like:
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Biology
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Chemistry
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History
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Fine Arts
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English
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Kinesiology
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Computer Information Systems
Certificate programs prepare students for entry-level careers and include:
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Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
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Fire Technology
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Public Safety Dispatcher
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Child Development
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Radiologic Technology
Many certificate programs are “stackable,” meaning students can build toward more advanced credentials over time.
3. Honors Institute: Crafton Hills College
CHC’s Honors Institute provides a rigorous academic experience for high-achieving students who plan to transfer to competitive universities. Benefits include:
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Priority admission consideration at UC and CSU campuses
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Research opportunities
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Small, seminar-style classes
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Dedicated honors counselors
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Crafton Hills College is a regional leader in public safety and health science training. Key CTE programs include:
Fire Academy
CHC is known for its premier Fire Academy, which trains cadets to become certified firefighters. The program features:
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Live-fire training
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Hazardous materials response
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Physical conditioning
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Job placement assistance
Graduates are well-prepared to enter municipal fire departments throughout California.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
The college offers both EMT and Paramedic training programs. These programs are:
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Accredited by state agencies
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Taught by experienced first responders
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Supported by hands-on clinical rotations
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Focused on national certification exams
Radiologic Technology: Crafton Hills College
It combines classroom instruction with clinical experience in area hospitals and clinics.
Transfer and University Preparation
Crafton Hills College is a launching pad for students aiming to transfer to four-year institutions. The college offers:
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Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) to several UC campuses
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Articulation agreements with CSUs and private universities
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A dedicated Transfer Center that helps students with applications, major selection, and timelines
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Workshops, university fairs, and one-on-one counseling
Top transfer destinations include:
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University of California, Riverside
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California State University, San Bernardino
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University of California, Los Angeles
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California Baptist University
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California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Student Support Services
CHC understands that academic success depends on comprehensive support. The college offers a wide array of services:
Academic Counseling
Students receive help with educational planning, career advice, and personal challenges. Counselors assist with degree mapping, transfer plans, and choosing the right major.
Tutoring and Learning Center
Tutoring is available for subjects like math, English, and science. The center offers:
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Drop-in sessions
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Group workshops
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Online tutoring
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Supplemental instruction (SI)
Financial Aid: Crafton Hills College
Crafton Hills College provides access to:
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Pell Grants
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California College Promise Grant (formerly BOG Waiver)
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Scholarships
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Emergency financial assistance
Financial aid staff guide students through the FAFSA and California Dream Act applications.
Disabled Student Services (DSPS)
Students with disabilities receive accommodations such as:
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Note-taking support
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Test modifications
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Sign language interpreters
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Assistive technology
Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS)
Designed for low-income and first-generation students, EOPS offers:
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Academic counseling
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Book vouchers
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Priority registration
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Career workshops
Student Life and Campus Culture
Crafton Hills College encourages students to engage in campus life and develop leadership skills through:
Student Government
Clubs and Organizations
More than 30 student-led clubs cater to a variety of interests, such as:
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Cultural and identity groups
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Academic societies
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Service organizations
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Hobby and special interest clubs
Clubs promote social networking, professional development, and community involvement.
Events and Activities
Throughout the academic year, the college hosts:
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Welcome Week
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Cultural celebrations
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Career fairs
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Mental health workshops
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Film screenings and lectures
Athletics and Wellness:
While Crafton Hills College does not have a traditional intercollegiate athletic program, the college prioritizes health and wellness through:
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A fitness center
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Aquatics programs and a swimming pool
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Group fitness classes
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Mental health and wellness resources
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Campus hikes and outdoor activities
Students are encouraged to lead active lifestyles as part of their overall development.
Library and Learning Resources
The Crafton Hills College Library is a central hub for academic success. It offers:
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Digital and print collections
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Study spaces and group rooms
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Research assistance
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Access to academic journals and databases
Library staff provide orientations and individualized support for research projects and assignments.
Facilities and Sustainability
Crafton Hills College has undergone numerous campus upgrades and new construction projects in recent years. Some highlights include:
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A new Science Building with labs and lecture halls
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Modernized classrooms with smart technology
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Sustainable landscaping and LEED-certified buildings
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Solar energy installations and eco-friendly policies
The college is committed to environmentally responsible development and practices.
Adult and Community Education
CHC offers continuing education for adult learners in areas such as:
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Basic computer literacy
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ESL (English as a Second Language)
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Workforce re-entry programs
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Non-credit personal enrichment classes
These programs support lifelong learning and help community members build new skills.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Crafton Hills College fosters an inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes equity. The college hosts:
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Safe spaces and identity support groups
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Cultural awareness events
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Equity-minded teaching practices
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Outreach to underserved high schools and communities
CHC’s equity initiatives are embedded in its strategic goals and curriculum development.
Alumni and Career Outcomes
Graduates of CHC have gone on to successful careers in:
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Healthcare
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Public safety
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Education
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Business
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Engineering and technology
The Career Center provides: Crafton Hills College
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Resume-building workshops
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Interview preparation
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Job postings and career fairs
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Internship placement assistance
Conclusion
Crafton Hills College stands out as a student-centered institution that combines academic rigor with personalized support and a commitment to community. Whether a student’s goal is to transfer to a four-year university, enter a rewarding career, or simply explore new educational opportunities, CHC offers the resources and environment to make it happen.
With its scenic campus, innovative programs, and dedicated faculty, Crafton Hills College continues to be a pillar of opportunity and excellence in Southern California’s educational landscape.
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