Set beside the rocks and open skies of Joshua Tree, Copper Mountain Community College pairs desert calm with focused academics. Known for strong foundations in writing, math, and the sciences, it also emphasizes hands-on career training and thoughtful teaching. Facilities include a solid library, tech-ready labs and classrooms, creative studios, quiet study spaces, and student services like advising, tutoring, counseling, and transfer support.
Student life leans outdoorsy and creative, with clubs, service projects, pop-up exhibits, and meetups that end in stargazing. The culture feels close-knit and down-to-earth, bringing together locals, adult learners, and military-connected students. Career prep appears in workshops, employer talks, and community projects that build practical skills. The town offers small-town friendliness, a lively arts scene, and quick access to trails and public lands. And the night sky is something else.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
6162 Rotary Way, Joshua Tree, California, 92252, USA
Explore degree programs offered at Copper Mountain Community College (CMC) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in California. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in California vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Liberal Arts (3)
Most Graduates (22.8%)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
A program that is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$143,290
+$48,820 (+51.7%)
24.0103
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on combined studies and research in the humanities subjects as distinguished from the social and physical sciences, emphasizing languages, literatures, art, music, philosophy and religion.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$143,290
+$48,820 (+51.7%)
Health (3)
Most Graduates (17.7%)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
A program that generally prepares individuals in the knowledge, techniques and procedures for promoting health, providing care for sick, disabled, infirmed, or other individuals or groups. Includes instruction in the administration of medication and treatments, assisting a physician during treatments and examinations, Referring patients to physicians and other health care specialists, and planning education for health maintenance.
A program that prepares individuals to assist in providing general nursing care under the direction of a registered nurse, physician or dentist. Includes instruction in taking patient vital signs, applying sterile dressings, patient health education, and assistance with examinations and treatment.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
29-2061
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
$64,150
$72,740
+$8,590 (+13.4%)
Interdisciplinary (1)
Most Graduates (16.3%)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
30.0101
Biological and Physical Sciences.
(Cert<2y)
A program that is either a general synthesis of one or more of the biological and physical sciences, or a specialization which draws from the biological and physical sciences.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$115,520
-$57,980 (-33.4%)
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$143,290
+$48,820 (+51.7%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
Psychology (1)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.0101
Psychology, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of individual and collective behavior, the physical and environmental bases of behavior, and the analysis and treatment of behavior problems and disorders. Includes instruction in the principles of the various subfields of psychology, research methods, and psychological assessment and testing methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
19-3032
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
$134,400
$137,540
+$3,140 (+2.3%)
19-3033
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
$106,850
$116,710
+$9,860 (+9.2%)
19-3039
Psychologists, All Other
$111,340
$139,090
+$27,750 (+24.9%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$57,450
-$6,110 (-9.6%)
25-1066
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,530
$140,370
+$46,840 (+50.1%)
Security & Safety (5)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety
A program that prepares individuals to apply theories and practices of organization management and criminal justice to the administration of public law enforcement agencies and operations. Includes instruction in law enforcement history and theory, operational command leadership, administration of public police organizations, labor relations, incident response strategies, legal and regulatory responsibilities, budgeting, public relations, and organizational leadership.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
25-1111
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
A program that prepares individuals to perform the duties of police and public security officers, including patrol and investigative activities, traffic control, crowd control and public relations, witness interviewing, evidence collection and management, basic crime prevention methods, weapon and equipment operation and maintenance, report preparation and other routine law enforcement responsibilities.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1111
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
$84,820
$173,250
+$88,430 (+104.3%)
33-3011
Bailiffs
$62,180
N/A
N/A
33-3021
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
$98,770
$95,330
-$3,440 (-3.5%)
33-3051
Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers
$79,320
$102,120
+$22,800 (+28.7%)
33-9021
Private Detectives and Investigators
$61,680
$57,190
-$4,490 (-7.3%)
43.0201
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program focusing on the application of fire science and technology to problems of reducing fire risk, limiting loss, supervising substance removal, conducting safety inspections and investigations, and advising on matters of safety procedures and fire prevention policy. Includes instruction in fire behavior, fire simulation, structural risk assessment, materials analysis, detection and suppression systems, smoke management, supply and evacuation, public education, legal aspects of fire prevention, and related research and communications methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
33-1021
First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers
$97,030
$92,200
-$4,830 (-5%)
33-2011
Firefighters
$63,890
$64,450
+$560 (+0.9%)
33-2021
Fire Inspectors and Investigators
$87,440
$95,810
+$8,370 (+9.6%)
Computer & IT (7)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0103
Information Technology.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the design of technological information systems, including computing systems, as solutions to business and research data and communications support needs. Includes instruction in the principles of computer hardware and software components, algorithms, databases, telecommunications, user tactics, application testing, and human interface design.
A program that focuses on the general writing and implementation of generic and customized programs to drive operating systems and that generally prepares individuals to apply the methods and procedures of software design and programming to software installation and maintenance. Includes instruction in software design, low- and high-level languages and program writing; program customization and linking; prototype testing; troubleshooting; and related aspects of operating systems and networks.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
15-1231
Computer Network Support Specialists
$79,610
$72,290
-$7,320 (-9.2%)
15-1251
Computer Programmers
$103,640
$99,130
-$4,510 (-4.4%)
15-1252
Software Developers
$144,570
$132,770
-$11,800 (-8.2%)
15-1253
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
$110,260
$123,010
+$12,750 (+11.6%)
15-1254
Web Developers
$98,790
$108,450
+$9,660 (+9.8%)
15-1255
Web and Digital Interface Designers
$111,450
$91,000
-$20,450 (-18.3%)
25-1021
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,830
$182,140
+$76,310 (+72.1%)
11.0601
Data Entry/Microcomputer Applications, General.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that generally prepares individuals to perform basic data and text entry using standard and customized software products. Includes instruction in keyboarding skills, personal computer and work station operation, reading draft texts and raw data forms, audio and tape dictation, and various interactive software programs used for tasks such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and others.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
43-9021
Data Entry Keyers
$42,070
$44,890
+$2,820 (+6.7%)
11.0701
Computer Science.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on computer theory, computing problems and solutions, and the design of computer systems and user interfaces from a scientific perspective. Includes instruction in the principles of computational science, computer development and programming, and applications to a variety of end-use situations.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-3021
Computer and Information Systems Managers
$187,990
$156,900
-$31,090 (-16.5%)
15-1212
Information Security Analysts
$127,730
$110,500
-$17,230 (-13.5%)
15-1221
Computer and Information Research Scientists
$152,310
N/A
N/A
15-1231
Computer Network Support Specialists
$79,610
$72,290
-$7,320 (-9.2%)
15-1243
Database Architects
$142,620
$167,530
+$24,910 (+17.5%)
15-1251
Computer Programmers
$103,640
$99,130
-$4,510 (-4.4%)
15-1252
Software Developers
$144,570
$132,770
-$11,800 (-8.2%)
15-1253
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
$110,260
$123,010
+$12,750 (+11.6%)
15-1254
Web Developers
$98,790
$108,450
+$9,660 (+9.8%)
15-1255
Web and Digital Interface Designers
$111,450
$91,000
-$20,450 (-18.3%)
15-1299
Computer Occupations, All Other
$116,700
$86,380
-$30,320 (-26%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$108,000
-$16,590 (-13.3%)
25-1021
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,830
$182,140
+$76,310 (+72.1%)
11.0901
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that focuses on the design, implementation, and management of linked systems of computers, peripherals, and associated software to maximize efficiency and productivity, and that prepares individuals to function as network specialists and managers at various levels. Includes instruction in operating systems and applications; systems design and analysis; networking theory and solutions; types of networks; network management and control; network and flow optimization; security; configuring; and troubleshooting.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-3021
Computer and Information Systems Managers
$187,990
$156,900
-$31,090 (-16.5%)
15-1211
Computer Systems Analysts
$111,960
$103,520
-$8,440 (-7.5%)
15-1212
Information Security Analysts
$127,730
$110,500
-$17,230 (-13.5%)
15-1231
Computer Network Support Specialists
$79,610
$72,290
-$7,320 (-9.2%)
15-1241
Computer Network Architects
$135,890
$104,190
-$31,700 (-23.3%)
25-1021
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,830
$182,140
+$76,310 (+72.1%)
Business (4)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0101
Business/Commerce, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the general study of business, including the processes of interchanging goods and services (buying, selling and producing), business organization, and accounting as used in profit-making and nonprofit public and private institutions and agencies. The programs may prepare individuals to apply business principles and techniques in various occupational settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$163,970
-$98,960 (-37.6%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$120,130
-$12,990 (-9.8%)
11-2022
Sales Managers
$160,930
$107,350
-$53,580 (-33.3%)
11-3012
Administrative Services Managers
$126,030
$99,420
-$26,610 (-21.1%)
11-3013
Facilities Managers
$114,520
$99,000
-$15,520 (-13.6%)
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$123,920
-$5,260 (-4.1%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$113,770
-$2,240 (-1.9%)
11-9021
Construction Managers
$119,660
$123,050
+$3,390 (+2.8%)
11-9072
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
$87,060
$95,420
+$8,360 (+9.6%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$84,080
-$2,020 (-2.3%)
11-9179
Personal Service Managers, All Other
$70,620
$76,380
+$5,760 (+8.2%)
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
13-1051
Cost Estimators
$83,160
$87,950
+$4,790 (+5.8%)
13-1082
Project Management Specialists
$108,100
$95,860
-$12,240 (-11.3%)
13-1111
Management Analysts
$114,710
$87,720
-$26,990 (-23.5%)
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$124,710
+$10,870 (+9.5%)
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$163,970
-$98,960 (-37.6%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$120,130
-$12,990 (-9.8%)
11-2022
Sales Managers
$160,930
$107,350
-$53,580 (-33.3%)
11-3012
Administrative Services Managers
$126,030
$99,420
-$26,610 (-21.1%)
11-3013
Facilities Managers
$114,520
$99,000
-$15,520 (-13.6%)
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$123,920
-$5,260 (-4.1%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$113,770
-$2,240 (-1.9%)
11-3111
Compensation and Benefits Managers
$156,230
$241,990
+$85,760 (+54.9%)
11-3121
Human Resources Managers
$160,480
$131,800
-$28,680 (-17.9%)
11-3131
Training and Development Managers
$140,590
$152,670
+$12,080 (+8.6%)
11-9021
Construction Managers
$119,660
$123,050
+$3,390 (+2.8%)
11-9072
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
$87,060
$95,420
+$8,360 (+9.6%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$84,080
-$2,020 (-2.3%)
11-9179
Personal Service Managers, All Other
$70,620
$76,380
+$5,760 (+8.2%)
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
13-1051
Cost Estimators
$83,160
$87,950
+$4,790 (+5.8%)
13-1071
Human Resources Specialists
$79,730
$77,800
-$1,930 (-2.4%)
13-1081
Logisticians
$87,600
$82,860
-$4,740 (-5.4%)
13-1082
Project Management Specialists
$108,100
$95,860
-$12,240 (-11.3%)
13-1111
Management Analysts
$114,710
$87,720
-$26,990 (-23.5%)
13-1141
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
$82,920
$86,950
+$4,030 (+4.9%)
13-1199
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
$92,380
$81,760
-$10,620 (-11.5%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$124,710
+$10,870 (+9.5%)
52.0302
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to provide technical administrative support to professional accountants and other financial management personnel. Includes instruction in posting transactions to accounts, record-keeping systems, accounting software operation, and general accounting principles and practices.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
13-2082
Tax Preparers
$58,860
$56,660
-$2,200 (-3.7%)
43-3031
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
$52,020
$54,440
+$2,420 (+4.7%)
43-3051
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks
$56,870
$63,430
+$6,560 (+11.5%)
43-4011
Brokerage Clerks
$67,680
$74,110
+$6,430 (+9.5%)
43-9111
Statistical Assistants
$55,470
$85,880
+$30,410 (+54.8%)
Social Sciences (4)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies
45.0201
Anthropology, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of human beings, their antecedents and related primates, and their cultural behavior and institutions, in comparative perspective. Includes instruction in biological/physical anthropology, primatology, human paleontology and prehistoric archeology, hominid evolution, anthropological linguistics, ethnography, ethnology, ethnohistory, socio-cultural anthropology, psychological anthropology, research methods, and applications to areas such as medicine, forensic pathology, museum studies, and international affairs.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
19-3091
Anthropologists and Archeologists
$71,070
$77,620
+$6,550 (+9.2%)
25-1061
Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,530
$135,630
+$33,100 (+32.3%)
45.0601
Economics, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the systematic study of the production, conservation and allocation of resources in conditions of scarcity, together with the organizational frameworks related to these processes. Includes instruction in economic theory, micro- and macroeconomics, comparative economic systems, money and banking systems, international economics, quantitative analytical methods, and applications to specific industries and public policy issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
19-3011
Economists
$130,910
$148,970
+$18,060 (+13.8%)
19-3022
Survey Researchers
$73,470
$115,630
+$42,160 (+57.4%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$57,450
-$6,110 (-9.6%)
25-1063
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
$133,140
$168,300
+$35,160 (+26.4%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
45.1001
Political Science and Government, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the systematic study of political institutions and behavior. Includes instruction in political philosophy, political theory, comparative government and politics, political parties and interest groups, public opinion, political research methods, studies of the government and politics of specific countries, and studies of specific political institutions and processes.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
19-3094
Political Scientists
$137,600
$132,240
-$5,360 (-3.9%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$57,450
-$6,110 (-9.6%)
25-1065
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,160
$139,760
+$34,600 (+32.9%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
45.1101
Sociology, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of human social institutions and social relationships. Includes instruction in social theory, sociological research methods, social organization and structure, social stratification and hierarchies, dynamics of social change, family structures, social deviance and control, and applications to the study of specific social groups, social institutions, and social problems.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
19-3041
Sociologists
$111,670
$123,300
+$11,630 (+10.4%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$57,450
-$6,110 (-9.6%)
25-1067
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,270
$133,240
+$35,970 (+37%)
Mechanics (5)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. Includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
49-2093
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
$80,980
$108,260
+$27,280 (+33.7%)
49-2096
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
$50,240
$59,910
+$9,670 (+19.2%)
49-3023
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
$55,260
$61,120
+$5,860 (+10.6%)
47.0614
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to the maintenance of alternative fuel vehicles and the conversion of standard vehicles to AFV status. Includes instruction in electrical vehicles, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vehicles, compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, hybrid fuel technology, electrical and electronic systems, engine performance, diagnosis and repair, and conversion/installation.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
49-3023
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
$55,260
$61,120
+$5,860 (+10.6%)
Human Sciences (3)
Family Studies, Consumer Sciences and Human Development
19.0709
Child Care Provider/Assistant.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to be primary providers of home, family, residential, or institutional-based child care services. Includes instruction in child growth and development, nutrition, recreation, planning and supervision of play and learning activities, child abuse and neglect prevention, parent-child relationships, and applicable legal and administrative requirements.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
39-9011
Childcare Workers
$33,140
$40,840
+$7,700 (+23.2%)
Mathematics (1)
Mathematical Sciences, Statistics and Computational Analysis
27.0101
Mathematics, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the analysis of quantities, magnitudes, forms, and their relationships, using symbolic logic and language. Includes instruction in algebra, calculus, functional analysis, geometry, number theory, logic, topology and other mathematical specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$115,520
-$57,980 (-33.4%)
15-2021
Mathematicians
$122,520
$155,780
+$33,260 (+27.1%)
15-2041
Statisticians
$112,330
$174,200
+$61,870 (+55.1%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$108,000
-$16,590 (-13.3%)
15-2099
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
$84,700
$194,850
+$110,150 (+130%)
25-1022
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$92,880
$141,680
+$48,800 (+52.5%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
Physical Sciences (2)
Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research
40.0501
Chemistry, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of matter, including its micro- and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$115,520
-$57,980 (-33.4%)
19-2031
Chemists
$95,940
$105,520
+$9,580 (+10%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$52,880
-$1,520 (-2.8%)
19-4031
Chemical Technicians
$61,300
$53,720
-$7,580 (-12.4%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$75,750
+$490 (+0.7%)
25-1052
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
$103,030
$112,470
+$9,440 (+9.2%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
40.0801
Physics, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of matter and energy, and the formulation and testing of the laws governing the behavior of the matter-energy continuum. Includes instruction in classical and modern physics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, mechanics, wave properties, nuclear processes, relativity and quantum theory, quantitative methods, and laboratory methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$115,520
-$57,980 (-33.4%)
19-2012
Physicists
$166,000
$202,760
+$36,760 (+22.1%)
25-1054
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,460
$111,030
+$5,570 (+5.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
Arts (3)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0101
Visual and Performing Arts, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general, undifferentiated program that focuses on the visual and performing arts and that may prepare individuals in any of the visual artistic media or performing disciplines.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$133,540
+$31,300 (+30.6%)
27-1012
Craft Artists
$45,340
$91,590
+$46,250 (+102%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$115,750
+$39,300 (+51.4%)
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$100,010
+$20,520 (+25.8%)
27-4021
Photographers
$55,650
$60,330
+$4,680 (+8.4%)
50.0701
Art/Art Studies, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of the visual arts. Includes instruction in art, photography, and other visual communications media.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$133,540
+$31,300 (+30.6%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
27-1012
Craft Artists
$45,340
$91,590
+$46,250 (+102%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$115,750
+$39,300 (+51.4%)
27-4021
Photographers
$55,650
$60,330
+$4,680 (+8.4%)
50.0705
Drawing.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals creatively and technically to express emotions, ideas, or inner visions through representation by lines made on a surface. Includes instruction in eye-hand coordination; line, value, shape, and perspective; figure and still life drawing; the use of media such as pen and ink, pencil, charcoal, pastel, and brush; and personal style development.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$133,540
+$31,300 (+30.6%)
27-1012
Craft Artists
$45,340
$91,590
+$46,250 (+102%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$115,750
+$39,300 (+51.4%)
27-1014
Special Effects Artists and Animators
$110,110
$167,850
+$57,740 (+52.4%)
Communication (1)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
09.0101
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the scientific, humanistic, and critical study of human communication in a variety of formats, media, and contexts. Includes instruction in the theory and practice of interpersonal, group, organizational, professional, and intercultural communication; speaking and listening; verbal and nonverbal interaction; rhetorical theory and criticism; performance studies; argumentation and persuasion; technologically mediated communication; popular culture; and various contextual applications.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-2032
Public Relations Managers
$163,520
$151,470
-$12,050 (-7.4%)
25-1122
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,340
$140,310
+$49,970 (+55.3%)
27-3011
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
$80,110
$144,360
+$64,250 (+80.2%)
27-3031
Public Relations Specialists
$80,310
$72,880
-$7,430 (-9.3%)
27-3043
Writers and Authors
$85,780
$102,850
+$17,070 (+19.9%)
27-3099
Media and Communication Workers, All Other
$84,870
$71,690
-$13,180 (-15.5%)
Eng. Technologies (1)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
15.1301
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to generally apply technical skills to create working drawings and computer simulations for a variety of applications. Includes instruction in specification interpretation, dimensioning techniques, drafting calculations, material estimation, technical communications, computer applications, and interpersonal communications.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
17-3011
Architectural and Civil Drafters
$68,860
$65,910
-$2,950 (-4.3%)
17-3012
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
$77,960
$123,140
+$45,180 (+58%)
17-3013
Mechanical Drafters
$74,040
$78,870
+$4,830 (+6.5%)
17-3019
Drafters, All Other
$66,530
$64,880
-$1,650 (-2.5%)
Biological Sciences (1)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research
A general program of biology at the introductory, basic level or a program in biology or the biological sciences that is undifferentiated as to title or content. Includes instruction in general biology and programs covering a variety of biological specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$115,520
-$57,980 (-33.4%)
19-1029
Biological Scientists, All Other
$100,440
$78,200
-$22,240 (-22.1%)
19-1099
Life Scientists, All Other
$101,940
$162,990
+$61,050 (+59.9%)
19-4012
Agricultural Technicians
$49,680
$55,000
+$5,320 (+10.7%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$52,880
-$1,520 (-2.8%)
19-4021
Biological Technicians
$58,020
$45,440
-$12,580 (-21.7%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$75,750
+$490 (+0.7%)
25-1042
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$101,340
$115,670
+$14,330 (+14.1%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
Construction (1)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
46.0415
Building Construction Technology/Technician.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to residential and commercial building construction and remodeling. Includes instruction in construction equipment and safety; site preparation and layout; construction estimating; blueprint reading; building codes; framing; masonry; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; electrical and mechanical systems; interior and exterior finishing; and plumbing.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
17-3022
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
$68,450
$63,550
-$4,900 (-7.2%)
47-1011
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
$84,500
$94,990
+$10,490 (+12.4%)
History (1)
Historical Studies, Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Research
54.0101
History, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the general study and interpretation of the past, including the gathering, recording, synthesizing and criticizing of evidence and theories about past events. Includes instruction in historiography; historical research methods; studies of specific periods, issues and cultures; and applications to areas such as historic preservation, public policy, and records administration.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$120,240
-$29,650 (-19.8%)
19-3093
Historians
$78,470
$92,760
+$14,290 (+18.2%)
25-1125
History Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,710
$130,450
+$36,740 (+39.2%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
39-7011
Tour Guides and Escorts
N/A
N/A
N/A
Natural Resources (2)
Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management
A program that focuses on environment-related issues using scientific, social scientific, or humanistic approaches or a combination. Includes instruction in the basic principles of ecology and environmental science and related subjects such as policy, politics, law, economics, social aspects, planning, pollution control, natural resources, and the interactions of human beings and nature.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
13-1041
Compliance Officers
$84,980
$80,350
-$4,630 (-5.4%)
19-2041
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
$88,640
$92,320
+$3,680 (+4.2%)
25-1053
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$100,360
$136,620
+$36,260 (+36.1%)
Kinesiology (1)
Exercise Science, Sports Medicine and Physical Recreation
31.0505
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.
(Cert<2y)
A scientific program that focuses on the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and biophysics of human movement, and applications to exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation. Includes instruction in biomechanics, motor behavior, motor development and coordination, motor neurophysiology, performance research, rehabilitative therapies, the development of diagnostic and rehabilitative methods and equipment, and related analytical methods and procedures in applied exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
29-1128
Exercise Physiologists
$59,620
$84,940
+$25,320 (+42.5%)
Personal Services (2)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
12.0500
Culinary Arts and Related Services.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Instructional content for this group of programs is defined in codes 12.0500 - 12.0599.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
35-1011
Chefs and Head Cooks
$64,720
$67,560
+$2,840 (+4.4%)
35-1012
First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers
$44,900
$50,350
+$5,450 (+12.1%)
35-2012
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
$37,310
$45,450
+$8,140 (+21.8%)
35-2014
Cooks, Restaurant
$37,730
$42,740
+$5,010 (+13.3%)
35-2019
Cooks, All Other
$38,000
$38,370
+$370 (+1%)
Languages (1)
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies
16.0905
Spanish Language and Literature.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the Spanish language and related dialects. Includes instruction in philology; Modern Castillan; Latin American and regional Spanish dialects; and applications in business, science/technology, and other settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
$164,070
+$76,400 (+87.1%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$66,800
+$1,850 (+2.8%)
English (1)
English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis
23.0101
English Language and Literature, General.
(Cert<2y)
A general program that focuses on the English language, including its history, structure and related communications skills; and the literature and culture of English-speaking peoples.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
California Avg
CA vs US
25-1123
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,400
$119,170
+$28,770 (+31.8%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$84,540
+$10,840 (+14.7%)
43-9081
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
$52,730
$66,770
+$14,040 (+26.6%)
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate
and graduate students
Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$2,052
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$11,988
In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$1,114
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$11,050
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$19,431 (off-campus)
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$938
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$4,428 (off-campus)
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
$3,609
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for
undergraduate students
4%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$5,582
Avg. Loan
$1,750
Avg. Federal Loan
$1,750
Additional
Students with Any Grant
52
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
1
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
37
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$400
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Avg. Pell Grant
$4,914
Average amount of Pell Grant awarded to recipients
Avg. State/Local Grant
$2,427
Average amount of state or local grant awarded to recipients
Pell Grant Recipients
56%
Percentage of students who received Pell Grant
State/Local Grant Recipients
82%
Percentage of students who received state or local grant
Institutional Grant Recipients
2%
Percentage of students awarded institutional grants
Federal Grant Recipients
65%
Percentage of students who received federal grant
Any Grant Recipients
91%
Percentage of students who received any type of grant
Any Loan Recipients
2%
Percentage of students who received any kind of student loan
Federal Loan Recipients
2%
Percentage of students who received a federal loan
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and
long-term value of education.
N/A
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
N/A
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$14,869 – $56,281
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$14,869 (25th %)$56,281 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$33,281
Median Salary After 6 Years
$28,840
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$33,281
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency
status.
3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
25.7%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
N/A
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
N/A
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low22.9%
Repayment by Dependency
Dependent33.3%
Independent24.2%
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Copper Mountain Community College (CMC)
How much does it cost to attend Copper Mountain Community College (CMC)?
The annual tuition at Copper Mountain Community College (CMC) is $1,114 for in-state students and $11,050 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $2,052 for in-state students and $11,988 for out-of-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $19,431 (off-campus) and books and supplies $938.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does Copper Mountain Community College offer?
Copper Mountain Community College (CMC) offers 57 academic programs across 23 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (7 programs)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety (5 programs)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (5 programs)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies (4 programs)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (4 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at Copper Mountain Community College?
Copper Mountain Community College (CMC) provides financial aid to 4% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $5,582 and average loans of $1,750.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
Pell grants: $4,914
State/Local grants: $2,427
Institutional grants: $400
Federal loans: $1,750
The university supports 52 students with grants and 1 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for Copper Mountain Community College graduates?
Copper Mountain Community College (CMC) graduates earn a median salary of $28,840 after 6 years and $33,281 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $14,869 (25th percentile) to $56,281 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $67,900 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.