Odessa College

Odessa College (OC) has focused on the future of Odessa and the Permian Basin since 1946, impacting the lives of more than 500,000 people through its college-prep, continuing education, adult basic education, workforce training, and community recreation programs. OC core courses are guaranteed transferable and students can pursue their education for about 1/3 the cost of a four-year university. To meet the needs of today's students, classes are available on the beautiful main campus in Odessa; at extension sites in Pecos, Andrews and Monahans; as well as in the convenience of their home or office over the Internet. OC offers more than 45 associate degree programs and about 70 certificate options.

Century Commons, Odessa College's unique student housing community, offers apartment-style living accommodations right on campus – and they are convenient to classrooms, the library, the student center, and recreational facilities.

Students also can drop into the Wi-fi Java Cyber Cafe for their favorite coffee, latte or frappuccino in between classes, or study in its colorful and cozy surroundings or in its outdoor patio. Complete with overstuffed couches and chairs, special study booths, a variety of background music, art and photography exhibits, the cafe offers students free access to computers and wireless high-speed Internet.

Businesses throughout the Permian Basin also can benefit from specialized workforce training for their employees provided by the Continuing Education Department. Training can be customized to meet the needs of a particular company or group, and classes can be held on the OC campus or at the job site.

With an emphasis on health and well-being in today's society, the Sports Center remains a favorite place for community members and students. The 110,000-square-foot athletic center, voted The Best health center in Odessa by the community for many years, provides both indoor and outdoor tracks, a fitness center, indoor pool and whirlpool, weight training facilities, racquetball courts, two gymnasiums, and a wide variety of health and recreation programs for students and the community. The Sports Center also is home to the OC Wrangler and Lady Wrangler basketball teams. In addition to basketball, athletic program includes teams in women's softball, rodeo and cross-country. Men's teams compete in baseball, golf, cross-country and rodeo. Odessa College athletic teams hold 46 national titles and the institution has earned a national reputation for its outstanding athletic programs.

Extracurricular activities enhance students' many opportunities for social interaction. A student can join intramural activities or participate in any of the diverse clubs and organizations on campus. For the musically inclined, the Odessa College music department is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music. OC also has the internationally recognized A Cappella Choir and Vocal Ensemble and the spirited OC Jazz Band. The music department also sponsors a community choir and a community band for interested area citizens.

Cultural attractions for the community include the Globe of the Great Southwest and the native plant botanical gardens. Musical attractions performed by the OC jazz and concert bands, and the OC choir and vocal ensemble throughout the year provide entertainment ranging from jazz and blues to opera, classical and more.

For more information, visit our Web site at www.odessa.edu or call 432/335-6416.