51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï

About BC

Renegade Memorial

Established in 1913, 51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï is one of the nation's oldest continually-operating community colleges. The college serves 46,000 students annually on the 153-acre main campus in northeast Bakersfield, at the Delano Campus 35 miles north of Bakersfield, the Weill Institute in downtown Bakersfield, and BC SouthWest in southwest Bakersfield. We also offer classes at several alternative locations, including Shafter Learning Center 18 miles northwest of Bakersfield, Arvin/Lamont, McFarland, Olive Drive Training Facility in northwest Bakersfield, Wasco and other community locations.

Our students are diverse and represent the communities we serve, with BC holding designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution. You can see details about our student population on the BC Scorecard.

Classes are offered on a traditional 16-week semester calendar as well as in a variety of non-traditional scheduling options: evenings, weekends, short-term vocational programs and online.

51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï Statistics

112
Years Opened
44,803
Annual Headcount for 2024-25
262
Degrees and Certificates
Explore the Home of the Renegades

51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï At A Glance

Learn more about the President's office and about how BC uses committees to govern our work.
Access our interactive digital map of the 51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï main campus.
Search for contact information for classified staff, administration, or faculty.
51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï serves many different communities at various locations. Find them all.
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Graduate holds up diploma cover and waves at the crowd.
Ways to Give

Support Bakersfield College

Whether you wish to support an academic department, student scholarship, or the mission of 51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï, your donation makes a difference. You can donate to an existing fund, establish a scholarship, sponsor an event, in-kind gifts, make an estate gift, or have payroll deductions if you are a BC employee all through the Bakersfield College Foundation.

Mission, Vision, & Values

 
51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï campus center

A Better BC

In November 2016, Kern County approved Measure J, a $502 million bond that will fund crucial upgrades to 51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï's campus. With additional support from state grants, these funds will revitalize the campus, fostering a modern and innovative learning atmosphere. As the transformation unfolds, our website will provide regular updates, offering insights into the enhancements made to student services, community events, and the continuation of memorable experiences at 51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï.
students in front of campus center in 1950

History of BC

51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1913. Originally known as Kern County Union High School, the institution transitioned into Bakersfield Junior College in 1920, becoming one of the first junior colleges in the state. Over the years, 51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï has grown into a vibrant educational institution, offering a wide range of programs and serving as a pillar of higher education in the Central Valley region.
Student or community member speaking to staff members at a We are BC table.
Your voice matters: Speak up, we are Listening!

Suggestion Box and College-Wide Feedback

Your insights are invaluable in shaping the future of our community. Take a moment to share your thoughts, suggestions, and ideas. Together, let's make our college experience even better. Thank you for being a crucial part of the conversation!

More About Bakersfield College

Guiding Documents

Additional Information