Southwestern Community College is a comprehensive learning and teaching institution offering high quality innovative instruction and support to all who need and value these services. It is located in Sylva, North Carolina. The school is a member of the 59-campus North Caroline Community College System.

Southwestern Community College was founded in April, 1961. By 1963, Jackson County had obtained a 17 acre site for locating the college, and by May 1964, 90 percent of the block work for the building was completed, with local masonry students providing much of the labor. The students, predominantly local residents who had been taking introductory classes in the previously established trade schools, were ready for hands-on experience.

In 1970 Southwestern began the process to become accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and received that status in December 1971. It was also accredited in 1972 by the North Carolina Board of Education, one of only 11 schools in the state to receive endorsement from both agencies.


Southwestern Community College offers degrees up to the Associate's degree. In addition Southwestern Community College offers online programs and courses. Through well-crafted lessons, expert online instruction and interaction with fellow students, participants in these courses can gain valuable knowledge at their convenience. They have the flexibility to study at their own pace combined with enough structure and support to complete the course. With an Internet connection they can access the classroom 24/7 from anywhere.

Southwestern Community College is a leader in improving the quality of life for citizens of western North Carolina by offering high-quality, innovative instruction and support to all who need and value these services. The college accomplishes its mission through customer focus, continuous improvement and teamwork