Highland Community College began as Highland University in 1858, making it the first college in Kansas. The College had eight names. Nowadays, the College is in its 148th year of providing higher education opportunities to the people of Northeast Kansas. The College has traditionally prepared students to continue their studies at baccalaureate institutions. Studies conducted at the Regents universities in Kansas show that students who begin their college careers at HCC and then transfer do as well or better academically as all other students who transfer to those universities and those who start there.

Highland Community College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Highland Community College is an open-admissions institution serving residents and non-residents of the state of Kansas. We offer you an excellent array of opportunities to make choices, both academically and with extracurricular activities.

The most important people in ensuring the quality of your academic life at HCC are the faculty. They are always ready to assist you in the classroom with quality instruction. Moreover, they will also be involved with you outside the classroom as advisors, intramural opponents, and friends.

Highland Community College recognizes that in today's economy, most families need help in financing the cost of higher education. That’s why, it has developed a complete program of financial aid options to meet your needs. The College offers assistance based upon academic achievement, special talents, and financial need.

In order to be considered for all types of federal financial aid administered by HCC, a student need only complete and submit the HCC Application for Financial Aid and the FAFSA. Applicants and parents may have to submit signed copies of their federal income tax returns and other documents if selected for verification.

The College also offers you to earn two degrees and a variety of courses online. Registration for HCC Online courses follow the same schedule as the regular classes.