Vernon College, founded in 1970, is a public community college centered in the city of Vernon in north-central Texas. The college has satellite campuses at Wichita Falls, Texas and Sheppard Air Force Base (open to both military and civilian students). In particular, the Vernon campus features eight administrative and academic buildings, two residence halls, a baseball field, tennis courts, and horse/rodeo facilities.

The college's facilities and academic programs serve 2785 undergraduate students annually and fit in well with the area's ranching-based economy. Student life in the rural environment is tight-knit, with events such as Sports Day, Turkey Trot, costume contests, and Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society initiation taking place throughout the year. 

The Vernon College mission is specific in its intent and scope. Vernon College grants associate degrees, certificates, and vocational training; prepares students for transferring into bachelors degree programs and for personal enrichments; provides customized training for business and industry; and educates adults to meet the needs of the community and the statewide workforce.

Coursework is delivered through campus-based and distance learning, including Internet courses and interactive video courses. Vernon College serves 12 counties (Archer, Baylor, Clay, Cottle, Foard, Hardeman, Haskell, King, Knox, Throckmorton, Wichita, and Wilbarger). Almost 64% of the college's students attend part-time.

 

 

Vernon College is regionally accredited from the Higher Learning Commission of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students may graduate with an Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), or Associate of Arts in Teaching (A.A.T.) degree from one of five academic divisions. The majors offered by each division are listed below.

Communications Division includes A.A.T., Child Development, Drama, English, Music, Spanish & Spanish Language Interpreter, and Speech. The Business and Social Sciences Division offers programs in Accounting, Business Management, Economics, Government , History, Psychology, and Sociology.

Students who are interested in technical careers can pursue studies such as Automotive Technology, Computer & Information Sciences, CISCO, Industrial Automation, Heat Ventilation and Air Conditioning, Welding, Office Technology, and Machining.

Other skilled trades taught at Vernon College include ADN, Continuing Education, Cosmetology, EMS/Fire , Pharmacy Technician, Business Management & Accounting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

As part of the college's mission, the Career and Technology Education division also offers a law enforcement academy, firefighter certifications, dental assisting examination coursework, and real estate licensing preparation. Additional non-credit courses are taught based on community interest and instructor availability.

The cost of college is a key factor for anyone deciding to pursue higher education. Vernon College proffers a quality education at a reasonable price. Texas residents living in student housing and enrolling in 15 hours per semester should expect to pay $10,805 per academic year. This cost breaks down into $3330 for tuition and fees, $1200 for books and supplies, $4506 for room and board, and $1769 for transportation. Grants, scholarships, loans, and work study money are available for students who qualify. Seventy-eight percent of Vernon College students receive some form of financial aid.

Athletics are a major aspect of the Vernon College culture. The college is home to the Chaparrals (Roadrunners), who take part in the baseball, rodeo, softball, and volleyball sports programs. Vernon College prides itself on its excellent sports facilities and the significant academic performance of student-athletes. In fact, approximately 85 scholarships are awarded to outstanding student-athletes each year. Vernon College participates in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, National Junior College Athletic Association, and the Northern Junior College Athletic Conference.