Columbia Basin College

Columbia Basin College offers an affordable education, with in-state tuition around $6,194 and out-of-state tuition at $8,239. Approximately 62% of students receive financial aid, with the average total aid awarded being $6,754. This makes CBC an attractive option for students seeking quality instruction at a reasonable cost, especially for those planning to transfer to a four-year university.

Columbia Basin College has an open admissions policy, requiring only basic requirements for acceptance. The college aims to serve the educational needs of the Mid-Columbia region. CBC offers programs such as English as a Second Language (ESL) and General Educational Development (GED) prep classes to support a diverse student population.

Columbia Basin College provides a welcoming and supportive academic environment with engaged professors. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and interaction with instructors. The college offers diverse course offerings, including online classes, to accommodate various student schedules and learning preferences.

CBC focuses on preparing students for both transfer to four-year institutions and direct entry into the workforce. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement to foster academic and social growth. With programs designed to meet industry needs, CBC aims to provide students with meaningful employment opportunities after graduation.

CBC offers a friendly and diverse campus community with numerous opportunities for student involvement. Students can participate in clubs, student government, and various campus events. While primarily a commuter school, CBC hosts activities like trivia nights and fall festivals to encourage student engagement and foster a stronger sense of community.

Campus Security at CBC is located in the V Building on the Pasco Campus, with officers patrolling the campus 24/7. Security measures include enforcing parking and traffic regulations and providing customer service-oriented tasks. Cameras are placed throughout the campus to maintain a secure learning environment.

CBC was awarded a NSF HSI Research Grant to support faculty development of research experiences that move students from subject observer to participant. Faculty are developing meaningful research projects, fostering intellectual growth and mentorship. Over 400 students are benefiting from hands-on research that connects learning to real-world applications, builds community partnerships, and provides platforms to showcase students’ work at a campus-wide research symposium. Overall, the grant strengthens the college’s ability to provide research-driven educational opportunities.

CBC serves a small number of international students, with the majority coming from Ukraine, Vietnam, and Rwanda. The college provides resources and support for international students to help them adjust to campus life. CBC's commitment to diversity is reflected in its efforts to create an inclusive environment for all students.