Portland Community College, also known as PCC. The college was established in 1961 as part of the adult education program of the local public school system.

The college enrolls more than 98,000 students annually, including students from 50 different countries. PCC has three comprehensive campuses offering an extensive variety of academic programs, including one year specialized certificates, two-year professional and technical degrees, and professional /technical career training opportunities.

Some of the academic departments of PCC include architectural design and drafting, biomedical engineering technology, computer applications and office systems, management and supervisory development, and veterinary technology. One of the main goals of college was to maintain a private wireless network. Nowadays PCC maintains a delicate balance between openness and security. Students, faculty and staff can use the college’s wireless network to communicate and work from common areas.

The college offers associate's degree and certificate programs but, with few exceptions, award no baccalaureate degrees. This college offers degrees ranging from the bachelor's to the doctorate, and typically award a majority of degrees in a single field.

The college offers distance learning opportunity and opportunity to study abroad. Distance Education at PCC is a convenient and flexible way to take courses. There are many different types of PCC distance classes. The Distance Learning opportunity includes Web classes, TV classes, Interactive Television (ITV).

Portland Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Many programs within the college have accreditation from professional associations.