Trends and Current Issues

Mobile apps are providing information on the go for a host of subjects today. Now, community colleges are getting in on the technology action, with their very own apps designed just for their students and faculty. Whether you are looking for information about extracurricular activities available on campus or where to go for financial aid assistance, these apps are ready to get you the information you need in a flash – no matter where you might be. Check out how some community colleges across the country are using the latest technology craze to make campus life easier for their student body.

Two Mobile Apps Available to Montgomery County Community College Students

Montgomery County Community College students now have their campus in the palms of their hands – quite literally – with two new mobile apps available. According to a report at the Upper Moreland-Willow Grove Patch, the school now features MOX, an application by Datatel’s Mobile Access that offers a wealth of information about the college. The app includes general information about both the Blue Bell and Pottstown campuses, including current campus events, contact information for school administrators, class schedules and locations, and even overdue library books. The app is linked to the campus portal, allowing users to sign in with their usual MC3 username and password. Information from the portal that is also included in the app gives students access to important information from anywhere on campus. Currently, Montgomery County is the only

Community colleges have traditionally been focused on getting in, getting an associate degree in two years or less, and getting into the workforce as quickly as possible. Those who wanted to continue their education had to take on the headache of transferring all of their community college credits to a four-year institution. Today, a number of community colleges are offering bachelor's degrees to student who complete associate degrees and want to take their training and education to the next level - without leaving campus.

What's Different about Community College Bachelor's Degrees?

While many students are clamoring for a spot in a four-year community college program that costs much less than a similar degree from a nearby university, community colleges are stressing the point that they are not trying to be just like the four-year postsecondary institutions. First, most community colleges offering bachelor's degrees are doing so as an extension of their own associate degree programs. Students earn the associate degree first to become eligible to apply for the bachelor's program.

These bachelor's degrees will also differ from traditional university offerings because they will be limited to degree programs that can take students directly into the workforce. In keeping with the long-standing tradition of community colleges to raise up a new generation of work-ready adults, these programs are designed specifically with a profession in mind. Instead of offering liberal arts programs in political science or English, these bachelor's degrees will be in specific fields like

For many students, college has traditionally represented independence from family. However, a growing number of families are redefining that experience. Today, it is increasingly common for parents, especially mothers, to attend community college alongside their children.

What once felt unusual is now part of a broader shift toward multi-generational education, driven by economic pressures, workforce demands, and expanded access to flexible learning options.

Why More Families Are Attending College Together

The original rise of this trend was tied to economic factors. During periods of financial instability, many adults returned to school to gain new skills or transition careers, while their children chose more affordable community colleges.

That dynamic still exists today, but the trend has expanded due to several newer factors:

Key Drivers in 2024–2026

• Rising tuition costs at four-year universities

• Growth of flexible and online learning options
• Increased demand for career-focused credentials
• Workforce shifts requiring upskilling and reskilling

Community colleges have become a natural meeting point for both generations, offering affordability, accessibility, and flexible scheduling.

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The Growth of Student Parents in Community College

The “going to school with mom” trend is part of a larger demographic shift.

• About 4.8 million undergraduate students are parents, representing roughly one-quarter of all college students
• Approximately 2.1 million student parents attend community colleges
• Around one-third of women in community college are mothers, and many are single parents

These numbers highlight how community colleges increasingly serve not just recent high school graduates, but entire

Although women were at one time excluded from many institutions of secondary education, in recent years, they have established themselves as a majority presence on two-year and four-year college campuses. According to a December 2009 Washington Post report, women make up 60% of higher education students nationwide, primarily because men are more likely to drop out of school, join the military, or go to prison.

However, the tide may be beginning to shift at community colleges, where male enrollment has been on the increase. Inside Higher Ed reports that for the first time in years, community colleges have experienced enrollment of male students either equal to or above their enrollment of female students.

A Spike in Male Students

Randolph Community College, in North Carolina, experienced an increase of 68% in first-time full-time male enrollment from Fall 2008 to Fall 2009, bringing the current male population at the community college up to 37%. Meanwhile, in Washington State, Lower Columbia College noted that full-time male student enrollment was 36% higher in Fall 2009 than it had been in Fall 2008.

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Inside Higher Ed reports that Kent Phillipe, the director of research at the American Association of Community College, notes that the group’s recent studies show that the number of male students at community colleges has grown

This article has been updated to reflect 2026 data and recent developments.

Community colleges have long played a vital role in preparing students for local and regional employment. In 2026, their influence extends far beyond local boundaries. As globalization, technological advancement, and workforce shifts accelerate, community colleges are increasingly central to the global economy.

From workforce development to international partnerships, these institutions provide flexible, career-focused education that aligns with evolving economic demands. This updated analysis explores how community colleges contribute to the global economy today and how their role continues to expand.

The Expanding Role of Community Colleges in a Globalized Economy

Community colleges serve millions of students annually across the United States, making them one of the largest entry points into higher education. Their accessibility, affordability, and adaptability position them uniquely to respond to global workforce needs.

In 2026, their role has expanded in three key ways:

• Preparing students for globally connected industries
• Supporting workforce reskilling amid automation
• Partnering with international institutions and employers

These functions are increasingly critical as economies become more interconnected and technology-driven.

Workforce Development for Global Industries

Community colleges are closely aligned with labor market demands, particularly in industries that operate on a global scale.

High-Demand Sectors

Programs have expanded significantly in areas such as:

• Healthcare and allied health professions
• Information technology and cybersecurity
• Advanced manufacturing
• Renewable energy and sustainability

These sectors require workers who can operate in globally integrated supply chains and adapt to rapid technological change.

According to the U.S. Bureau of