All About PPSC

History of the College

In the late 1960s, Colorado Springs was on the move. The post-World War II American Dream was spreading, thanks to a G.I. Bill®* that funded higher education more than ever before. Baby boomers were becoming college-ready. Community colleges, which mixed academic and technical pathways, were the best investments cities could make.

Even though Colorado Springs was already home to the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado College, and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, a community college seemed a way to ensure that the boom would not go bust.

By 1968, El Paso County Community College (EPCC) opened, quickly dropping the cumbersome "county" from its name.

President Robert O. Hatton and three other staffers began the foundational work. To call the college's beginnings humble would be an understatement. The original nickname was “Safeway U”—because one of its buildings was a former Safeway store at Robinson Street and 25th. That campus grew quickly to eight buildings. EPCC also “repurposed” other buildings around town for various functions. The dedication of the Administrative offices, at 5 W. Las Vegas St., took place Nov. 20, 1968.

In the mid-70s, EPCC began to move away from a scattering of buildings toward one large central campus. EPCC negotiated for Ft. Carson surplus land (that the college had been leasing), and Congress approved. The Department of Defense sold the land to EPCC for $1 to support access for military students and their families.

The new campus, dedicated on Aug. 18, 1976, received the name Centennial because of the U.S. Bicentennial and Colorado’s Centennial year. A couple of years later, the college got a new name, one that reflected the heights of its ambitions.

Pikes Peak Community College was born on March 21, 1978. As had the city before it, but also not without controversy, the college dropped the possessive apostrophe in Pike’s. (The name changed again, to Pikes Peak State College, in 2022, and the College’s mission was expanded to include the offering of bachelor’s degree programs).

In 1986, PPSC opened the Downtown Studio Campus at 19 N. Tejon (now a People's Bank). Its location in the heart of the city inspired a natural affinity for the arts and humanities. It moved in 1993 to the former St. Mary’s High School, first leased and then acquired in 1993.

At the time the college was growing its downtown presence, the northern part of the county was sprouting suburbs filled with potential PPSC students. In 1986, PPSC began to use Rampart High School evenings and weekends as a north campus. In 1998, the college built the Rampart Range Campus, due east of the US Air Force Academy.

Through the following decades, with three major campuses and learning centers in District 49, Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, and more, PPSC continued to grow.

With partners, faculty, staff, and students, PPSC has become the largest, most diverse higher-education institution in Southern Colorado, serving nearly 18,000 students and making a significant impact on the local economy. Recent expansions include the 2021 opening of the Center for Healthcare Education and Simulation (CHES), which provides state-of-the-art training for healthcare students, and the 2024 launch of the Delta Dental of Colorado Oral Health Career Center, further expanding opportunities in the dental field.

*GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.

Vision Statement

Students succeed at Pikes Peak State College.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide high quality educational opportunities accessible to all, with a focus on student success and community needs, including:

Occupational programs, including certificates, associate and bachelor degrees, for youth and adults in career and technical fields;
Two-year transfer educational programs to qualify students for admission to the junior year at other colleges and universities; and
A broad range of personal, career, and technical education for adults.

Values

We value a community built on learning, mutual respect, and diversity. We demonstrate these values in the following ways:

Teaching and Learning: Our primary commitment is to student learning, success, and achievement, while promoting open and universal access to an affordable education and affirming the importance of our facilities and learning environments.
Mutual Respect and Accountability: Because people are our greatest resource, we foster a culture rooted in civility, mutual trust, and support, and hold ourselves accountable for our decisions and actions.
Community and Diversity: We engage and support our community while embracing diversity, as it enriches lives and educational experiences.

Required Disclosures

The College is required to disclose, on a yearly basis, certain types of information to all prospective and current students. These items include

the consequences of alcohol and drug violations on page 34
the manner in which the College calculates refunds and repayments as it is stated in this catalog on page 14 and as stated in the Financial Aid Handbook available at Enrollment Services or on our website.
the graduation rates for the College are available on the Student Right to Know webpage.

Faculty and Instructor Resource Guide

The Faculty and Instructor Resource Guide contains pertinent information affecting faculty members, current through the date of its issuance. To the extent that any provision of the Guide is inconsistent with State or Federal law, State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education Policies (BPs) or Colorado Community College System President’s Procedures (SP’s), the law, BPs and SPs shall supersede and control. BPs and SPs are subject to change throughout the year and are effective immediately upon adoption by the Board or System President, respectively. Faculty members are expected to be familiar with and adhere to the BPs, SPs as well as College directives, including but not limited to the contents of the Guide.

To access BPs and SPs, see the CCCS Board Policies & System Procedures webpage.

Nothing in the Guide is intended to create (nor shall be construed as creating) an express or implied contract or to guarantee employment for any term or to promise that any specific process, procedures, or practice will be followed, or benefit provided by the College. The College reserves the right to modify, change, delete or add to the information in the Guide as it deems appropriate.

PPSC All Student Handbook

The PPSC All Student Handbook provides important information for students, current as of its publication date.

Hierarchy of Policies: If any provision in this Handbook conflicts with State or Federal law, State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education Policies (BPs), or Colorado Community College System President's Procedures (SPs), the law, BPs, and SPs take precedence. BPs and SPs may change throughout the year and become effective immediately upon adoption by the Board or System President.

Student Responsibility: Students are expected to be familiar with and follow all BPs, SPs, and College directives, including the contents of this Handbook.

To access BPs and SPs, see the CCCS Board Policies & System Procedures webpage.

Disclaimer: Nothing in this Handbook creates—or should be interpreted as creating—an express or implied contract. The Handbook does not guarantee any specific process, procedure, practice, or benefit. The College reserves the right to modify, change, delete, or add to the information in this Handbook as it deems appropriate.

Planning for a Bachelor's Degree/Transfer Programs

Many students begin their college career at Pikes Peak State College with the eventual goal of completing a four-year, baccalaureate degree (bachelor’s degree). Pikes Peak State College offers several of its own bachelor’s degrees, allowing students to earn a bachelor’s degree without transferring to another institution.

Students may also choose to complete their associate degree, or the first two years of a four-year bachelor’s degree, at Pikes Peak State College and then transfer to four-year public or private institutions by following advising guides available for most arts and sciences programs. Many arts and sciences bachelor’s degrees may be obtained by completing an additional approximately 60 credit hours at a four-year college or university (an additional two years, at full-time status, beyond obtaining PPSC’s associate degrees).

Statewide transfer agreements between most Colorado public four-year colleges and universities and the Colorado Community College system allow students seamless transfer. Several Colorado colleges and universities provide guaranteed admission, special scholarships, and reduced application fees or special privileges for Colorado community college associate of arts (AA) or associate of science (AS) graduates. In addition, Pikes Peak State College has special agreements with a variety of private in-state and out-of-state institutions. Some associate of general studies (AGS) or associate of applied science (AAS) degrees also have pathways toward obtaining bachelor’s degrees. Students should consult with their academic advisors during their first semester or as early as possible for detailed information about transfer programs. PPSC’s transfer web pages provide additional information.

Career and Technical Education Programs

Career and technical education (CTE) programs can help students get a job, change careers, or improve current job skills. The career and technical programs at Pikes Peak State College teach the skills needed to work in a business, technical, industrial, service, or health career. Our programs offer curriculum and facilities that simulate the workplace. Depending on the program and the level of training, students may choose a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree or a Certificate of Achievement that can be earned in less than two years.

All career and technical education (CTE) programs operated at Pikes Peak State College are approved by the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education. All CTE instructors possess occupational experience and a CTE credential to teach in their area of expertise. Enrollment in Career Start is completed at the high school. Contact your high school counselor or call 719-502-3111 for more information.

Locations and Facilities

Pikes Peak State College serves the educational needs of the greater Colorado Springs community through four campuses strategically located in the south, central, and north areas of the city. These campuses provide accessible opportunities for students to achieve their educational goals, offering academic programs and resources tailored to meet diverse needs. With Mountain Metro bus service and an inter-campus shuttle connecting the northern locations, students can easily access any campus from anywhere in the city, ensuring that higher education remains within reach for all.

Centennial Campus

5675 South Academy Boulevard
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
719-502-2000
Toll Free: 800-456-6847
Video Phone for Hearing Impaired: 719-358-2453

The Centennial Campus, located in southern Colorado Springs, serves as a hub for programs in the Business, Technology, and Public Service Division as well as the Technical and Professional Studies Division. Students benefit from a wide range of services, including admissions, academic advising, a bookstore, a cafe, career services, Accessibility Services, TRIO Student Support Services, financial aid, library resources, Military and Veterans Programs, testing, and records. The campus also fosters a vibrant student community through the Student Experience and Leadership Office, which offers various campus life activities and engagement opportunities.

Key facilities include a modern learning commons and library, a theater, lecture halls, a community food pantry, a child development center, and science, career, and technical laboratories. Meeting and conference rooms are also available to support both academic and community needs.

Centennial Campus is home to the Student Experience and Leadership Office, encompassing the Student Government Association, the Sustainability Office, the fitness center, and various student clubs. The campus also features the Grove and other dedicated student-focused spaces designed to enhance campus life.

Parking is available in lots C, D, and E, with ADA-designated parking in Lot A and additional wheelchair-accessible spaces conveniently located near most building entrances. Fully accessible to individuals with disabilities, the campus is equipped with resources and support through Accessibility Services. Mountain Metro public bus service ensures easy connectivity from all parts of Colorado Springs, making the campus an accessible and welcoming destination for the entire community.

Downtown Campus

100 West Pikes Peak Avenue
Colorado Springs, CO 80903

The Downtown Campus is located in the heart of Colorado Springs, just minutes from I-25 via the Bijou Exit (142). It serves as a vibrant center for programs within the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Division. The campus features specialized facilities, including music practice rooms, the Marie Walsh Sharpe Creative Commons (studio art space), and Studio West - an art gallery and performing arts venue for theatre and dance.

The Downtown Learning Commons provides comprehensive student services, including admissions, academic advising, financial aid, tutoring, a food pantry, and Accessibility Services. Students can also connect with the Student Experience and Leadership Office, which offers events, activities, and engagement opportunities to enrich campus life.

Parking is available on the third level (P3) of the Palmer Center Garage, conveniently located across the street from the campus beneath the Antlers Hotel. Students and visitors can validate parking in the Learning Commons on the first floor of the north building. Additional metered street parking is available nearby, and free overflow parking can be found behind Studio West. ADA-designated spaces are located near building entrances for accessibility. Mountain Metro public bus service has a designated stop in front of the campus, allowing access to the campus from all parts of Colorado Springs.

Rampart Range Campus

2070 Interquest Pkwy
Colorado Springs, CO 80921

The Rampart Range Campus, located in northern Colorado Springs, is easily accessible via the InterQuest Parkway Exit (153) off I-25. Serving as a vibrant hub for programs within the Science, Engineering, and Math Division, this campus combines comprehensive student support services with state-of-the-art facilities to promote academic and personal success.

Students benefit from a wide range of services, including admissions, academic advising, a bookstore, a cafe, career services, Accessibility Services, TRIO Student Support Services, financial aid, library resources, Military and Veterans Programs, testing, and records. The campus also fosters a vibrant student community through the Student Experience and Leadership Office, which offers various campus life activities and engagement opportunities.

The Delta Dental Oral Health Career Center, located at Rampart Range, is a premier facility for training future dental professionals. Featuring state-of-the-art dental labs, modern equipment, and real-world clinical opportunities, it serves as the home for PPSC’s Dental programs, equipping students with the skills and environment needed to excel in high-demand oral health careers.

Convenient parking is available throughout the campus, with ADA-designated spaces located near building entrances for accessibility. The campus is a stop for the Mountain Metro public bus service. PPSC also provides a free shuttle to the Center for Healthcare Education & Simulation (CHES), ensuring seamless connectivity for students across PPSC’s locations.

Center for Healthcare Education and Simulation (CHES)

1850 Cypress Semi Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80921

The Center for Healthcare Education & Simulation (CHES) in northeast Colorado Springs is a premier campus designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare. As part of the Health Sciences Division, CHES offers a state-of-the-art learning environment where students gain immersive, hands-on experience using the latest healthcare technology.

CHES features advanced simulation labs, fully equipped medical classrooms, and cutting-edge resources that provide students with realistic training scenarios. These facilities ensure graduates are well-prepared with the skills and expertise needed to excel in high-demand healthcare fields.

Although direct access to services such as academic advising, financial aid, and tutoring is limited at CHES, students can easily connect with these resources through virtual meetings or by visiting other PPSC campuses. The campus also promotes collaboration through modern learning spaces designed to facilitate meaningful interactions between peers and faculty.

Convenient on-site parking includes ADA-designated spaces near building entrances for accessibility. A free shuttle service connects CHES to the Rampart Range Campus, providing students with seamless access to additional resources and programs. CHES embodies PPSC’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education, empowering future professionals to thrive in a growing and essential industry.

Visit Us

We're excited to welcome you to Pikes Peak State College and show you around our campuses! Schedule a Campus Tour: Call (719) 502-2000 or visit our website.

Tours are available at all PPSC locations.

Use of College Facilities

If an external group would like to use facilities on one of our campuses, please contact Events Management at the Centennial Campus by calling 719-502-2333 or visiting our use of facilities webpage. This webpage provides detailed information about requirements, costs, and how to submit a request.