Access Programs

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Want to see if you qualify for any of our programs? Use the button below to complete the Access Programs Application.

Access Programs Application

What is the Access Programs Department?

The Access Programs Department at Cerro Coso Community College oversees five state-funded programs dedicated to supporting and assisting community college students who are faced with additional barriers in obtaining their education, such as economic, language, disability, educational, and social disadvantages.

We promote student growth and self-responsibility in accomplishing academic, career, and life goals.

The five programs are:

• Disabled Student Program and Services (DSPS)
• Extended Opportunities Program and Services (EOPS)
• Cooperative Agency Resources for Education (CARE)
• Foster Youth (NextUp)
• California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs)

The resources and services offered depend on the program(s) you are eligible for. Services may include: an assigned support team and Access Programs Counselor, grants or book vouchers, transportation passes, access to the High Tech Center, interpreters, taped books, social and cultural enrichment activities, the Student Services United Club, networking and leadership training, and a career decision-making guidance. 

All services are individualized to meet the needs of the Access Programs students.

Program Summaries

Interested? Explore the programs listed to learn more! You can also contact the Access Programs Department at (760) 384-6250.

DSPS

Disabled Student Program and Services provides access and support to students with verifiable disabilities.

EOPS

Extended Opportunities Program and Services was developed to give people with financial and academic need an opportunity to obtain their educational goals. It is one of our largest programs, and we encourage all interested students to apply!

CARE

The Cooperative Agency Resources for Education program gives additional help to students who are single, head of household, receiving cash aid, with at least one child under 18 years of age.

NextUp

The Foster Youth program assists and aids students who are current or former foster youth/under guardianship.

CalWORKs

The Access Programs Department gives additional services and resources to students who are currently part of their county’s California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program. To qualify, students must receive AFDC/TANF benefits, be 18 years or older, and be in good academic standing.

Contact

Access Programs Department
3000 College Heights Blvd
Ridgecrest, CA 93555

accessprograms@cerrocoso.edu
(760) 384-6250