San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield

1. General Information

Reviews

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield is widely recognized for its career-focused programs, supportive learning environment, and strong emphasis on hands-on training that prepares students for real-world employment. Many students appreciate the college’s small class sizes, which allow for personalized attention from instructors who are experienced professionals in their fields. This campus is known for offering a structured and engaging curriculum that emphasizes practical skills, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking accelerated pathways into the workforce. Reviews often highlight the school’s commitment to providing career services, including résumé support, interview preparation, and employer connections, which help students transition smoothly into new careers. Another recurring theme among students is the supportive campus culture, where staff members strive to create a welcoming and motivating environment. While some students mention that the accelerated nature of the programs can be demanding, most agree that this structure helps them complete their education faster and begin working sooner. Overall, San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield is praised for blending academic rigor with professional development, making it a strong option for students seeking career-oriented education in a focused and encouraging setting.

Contact Informations

Address: 201 New Stine Road, Bakersfield, CA, United States
Phone: (661) 834-0126
Email: info@sjvc.edu

School Facts

School FactDetails
Founding Year1977
Campus TypeCareer-focused private college
Motto“Your Success Matters”
School ColorsBlue and White
Academic CalendarYear-round, term-based
Student-to-Faculty Ratio15:1 (approximate)

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Rankings

Ranking CategoryPosition
Country RankingTop 500 career colleges in the U.S.
Global RankingNot globally ranked (career-focused institution)

2. San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Academics

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Faculties / Departments

  • Health and Medical Studies
  • Business and Administration
  • Criminal Justice
  • Technical and Industrial Trades
  • Dental and Medical Assisting
  • Medical Office and Technology Studies
  • Veterinary Technology

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Courses Offered and Programs / Majors

  • Medical Assisting
  • Dental Assisting
  • Pharmacy Technology
  • Criminal Justice
  • Business Administration
  • Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
  • Medical Office Administration
  • Surgical Technology
  • Veterinary Technology

Online Courses / Online Learning

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield offers a number of online and hybrid learning options designed to help students balance their academic studies with work and personal responsibilities. The online learning format provides flexibility while still maintaining the high-quality, career-focused curriculum that SJVC is known for. Students who enroll in online programs benefit from virtual classrooms, digital resources, and supportive online faculty who guide them throughout their coursework. Many general education classes, as well as selected major-specific courses, are available online, allowing students to complete parts of their program remotely. This format also includes scheduled virtual support sessions and access to career services. Online learning at San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield is structured to ensure students receive hands-on training through scheduled on-campus labs or externships where applicable, creating a balanced approach that blends flexibility with practical skills.

Degrees

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield offers Certificate and Associate of Science degree programs across various career-focused fields.

Summer School

Summer terms are available and designed for accelerated program completion, allowing students to continue their coursework year-round.

Average Test Scores

(College does not require SAT/ACT for admission, but table provided for formatting purposes)

TestAverage Score
SATNot Required
ACTNot Required
GRENot Applicable

Retention and Graduation Rates

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield generally maintains strong retention and graduation rates due to its highly structured programs and supportive academic environment. Students benefit from advising, tutoring, and career services that help them remain on track and successfully complete their training.

3. San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED with a minimum GPA of approximately 2.0, depending on the program.

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Acceptance Rate

CategoryRate
Overall Acceptance RateHigh (Open Enrollment)

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Application Requirements

The application requirements at San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield are designed to be accessible while ensuring that students are prepared for the rigor of career-focused training. Applicants typically need to submit proof of a high school diploma or GED, complete an admissions interview, and take a placement assessment if required by their program. Some programs may require additional steps, such as background checks, immunization records, or physical capability evaluations, particularly for medical and technical fields. Applicants also meet with an admissions advisor to determine program suitability, discuss financial aid options, and outline their educational goals. The admissions process is structured to help students start their program with confidence by identifying the right academic path for their career aspirations.

Enrollment

Enrollment varies by term, with new start dates throughout the year designed to accommodate flexible scheduling.

Application Process

  • Submit online application
  • Schedule admissions interview
  • Complete placement testing (if required)
  • Provide high school diploma or GED
  • Meet with financial aid advisor
  • Finalize enrollment documents
  • Attend orientation

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Application Deadlines / Important Dates

TermDeadline
Winter TermRolling Admissions
Spring TermRolling Admissions
Summer TermRolling Admissions
Fall TermRolling Admissions

Essay Prompt

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield does not require an admissions essay.

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Scholarships

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield offers institutional scholarships, financial aid, federal grants, and external scholarship opportunities. Students may qualify based on financial need, academic performance, or program selection.

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Tuition Fees (Costs)

Program TypeEstimated Cost
Certificate Programs$15,000–$25,000
Associate Degree Programs$25,000–$35,000

4. Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield serves a diverse population of students representing various age groups, cultural backgrounds, and life experiences. The student body includes recent high school graduates, adult learners seeking career changes, and working professionals pursuing specialized training.

Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities

The college provides strong support services for low-income students, including financial aid counseling, scholarship resources, and federal assistance programs. Students with disabilities can access accommodations such as tutoring, testing assistance, adaptive technology, and individualized academic planning.

Student Body

CategoryNumber
Total Students500–800 (approx.)
International StudentsLimited
Part-Time StudentsModerate
Full-Time StudentsMajority

University Diversity

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield emphasizes an inclusive environment that supports students from all backgrounds, helping them thrive academically and professionally. Diversity is reflected across its programs, with learners representing a wide range of ethnicities, ages, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The college actively promotes equity by offering accommodations, financial support, and specialized advising for students who may face academic or personal barriers. This commitment to diversity strengthens the learning culture by encouraging collaboration and fostering mutual respect among students with different perspectives and experiences. The campus community benefits from a rich mix of cultural influences, allowing students to engage with peers who bring unique insights into discussions, group work, and hands-on training activities. Ultimately, the college’s focus on inclusiveness helps ensure that all students feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their professional goals.

Average Earnings

Graduates of San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield often see improved earning potential as they transition into fields such as healthcare, criminal justice, and skilled trades. Many programs are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in high-demand industries that offer competitive starting salaries and opportunities for career advancement. Because the college emphasizes practical, hands-on training, students typically enter the workforce with applicable skills that employers value, which can positively impact their earning trajectory. Graduates frequently report securing stable employment soon after completing their programs, with many experiencing wage growth as they gain experience and pursue additional certifications. The college’s career services also play an important role in supporting graduates through résumé development, job search assistance, and interview preparation.

Graduation Rate

Graduation rates are strong due to the college’s structured programs, student support services, and career-oriented curriculum.

5. San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield employs experienced instructors with professional backgrounds in their respective fields. Faculty members are known for providing personalized instruction, hands-on training, and mentorship that helps students navigate both their academic and career journeys.

Faculty Profiles

Faculty members often hold industry certifications and years of practical experience, bringing real-world insights to the classroom. Many have backgrounds in healthcare, business, criminal justice, and skilled trades, enhancing the relevance and depth of instruction.

6. San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Campus and Student Life

Campus Life / Housing

San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield provides a supportive campus environment designed to help students succeed in accelerated, career-focused programs. While on-campus housing is not offered, the college assists students with information about local housing options in the surrounding Bakersfield community, allowing them to find affordable accommodations. The campus offers modern classrooms, labs, study areas, and student support services, fostering a productive and encouraging learning atmosphere.

Transportation

The campus is easily accessible by car and is located near major roads and public transportation routes. Students often commute from surrounding areas, and ample parking is available. Public bus services provide convenient access for those relying on transportation options within Bakersfield.

Job Openings

The college frequently has job openings for faculty, administrative staff, and student services professionals. Open positions vary by term and program needs, reflecting the campus’s commitment to maintaining a high-quality educational experience.