The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is the largest higher education institution in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Founded in 1966, it operates a network of 23 community colleges serving more than 252,000 students annually across Virginia. Its work spans higher education, workforce development and degree pathways, with 81% of graduates remaining in their local communities after completing their studies.
Among its programmes is FastForward, a short-term job training initiative offering accelerated workforce training. The G3 (Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back) scheme provides financial support to students from families earning under $100,000. Credits2Careers awards college credit for military experience and prior certifications, while the Transfer Virginia portal supports student transitions to four-year institutions.
The system is governed by a 15-member State Board appointed by the Governor, with a Chancellor responsible for day-to-day leadership. It maintains a System Office in Richmond, Virginia, and a Shared Services Center in Daleville, Virginia. Its stated mission is to provide everyone the opportunity to learn and develop skills, strengthening lives and communities while supporting Virginia's workforce and economic vitality.
