College History & Heritage College History & Heritage

Columbia College is a public community college in Sonora, California. The college is part of the Yosemite Community College District, which also administers Modesto Junior College in nearby Modesto, California. Columbia College was established in 1968 as Columbia Junior College, the college dropped "Junior" from its name in 1978. 

On 280 acres of forestland in the historic Mother Lode, the college campus has been described as one of the state’s most beautiful community colleges. Given our location around San Diego Reservoir from which wooded foothills join the rugged majesty of the Sierra Nevada, you'll be taking the next step of your academic and professional career surrounded by a unique and picturesque setting.

Columbia College is an ideal destination for those looking to enrich their lives and start or further their higher education. Our dedicated faculty and staff provide everything you will need for academic success, and due to our comparatively smaller class sizes, you'll be able to fully utilize their time and develop one-on-one relationships.

Columbia College is fully accredited, offering a wide variety of transferable and career-driven associate degrees, certificates and awards taught by dedicated faculty committed to student success.

OU Campus Login