College of the Desert
Palm Desert, United States • Founded 1958
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: collegeofthedesert.edu
Overview
College of the Desert is a public community college in Palm Desert, California, governed by the Desert Community College District and part of the California community college system.
The college was founded in 1958 and began classes in September 1962. It serves the Coachella Valley from its Palm Desert campus, with additional sites in Indio, Desert Hot Springs, Mecca and Thermal, and Palm Springs.
Students can pursue associate degrees, Associate Degrees for Transfer that carry priority admission to the California State University system, and certificates. Noncredit certificates of completion and competency prepare learners for career pathways or for credit coursework.
The college is a leading source of transfer students to California State University, San Bernardino, and offers vocational and technical programs in fields such as nursing and health sciences, digital design and production, turf grass management and ornamental horticulture, advanced transportation technologies, culinary arts, and administration of justice at its Public Safety Academy.
College of the Desert is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, which reaffirmed its status in June 2026. Prospective students can reach the Admissions and Records office on the Palm Desert campus for help with applying, registering and transferring.
Location & Contact
Address, contact details, and online presence for College of the Desert are summarised below.
Academic Details
A snapshot of College of the Desert's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.
Programs Offered
Browse College of the Desert's programmes by level, or filter by name.
102 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Associate's Degree 63 programmes
Showing 10 of 63.
Certificate 39 programmes
Showing 10 of 39.
How to apply to College of the Desert
A five-step guide to applying to College of the Desert.
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1
Identify the right programme
College of the Desert's catalogue includes 102 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for College of the Desert's admissions process.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit via the institution
Submit your completed application through College of the Desert's official website at www.collegeofthedesert.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about College of the Desert
Common questions about College of the Desert, answered from data on record.
When did College of the Desert open?
College of the Desert traces its founding to 1958 (approximately 68 years ago).
Where is College of the Desert located?
College of the Desert is located in Palm Desert, United States.
Is College of the Desert public or private?
It is a public higher-education institution.
What is the student enrolment at College of the Desert?
Student enrolment at College of the Desert is around 10,207.
What is College of the Desert's official website?
The institution's website is www.collegeofthedesert.edu.
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Faculties at nearby universities
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