smc.edu/LatinoCenter
Student Services Center S201, 310-434-4459
The Latino Center’s Adelante Program is a success-oriented program focusing on academic achievement, transfer, cultural awareness, and personal growth. The program offers courses each semester in various subjects — including English, math, and the social sciences — and courses are structured to include Latino perspectives and contributions to the subject at hand. Adelante courses highlight the Latino culture and experience and emphasize the verbal, written, and critical thinking skills essential to college success. Most Adelante courses transfer to the UC and CSU systems.
To help students stay on track as they work toward their education goals, the Adelante Program offers a support network that includes one-on-one bilingual counseling and opportunities to develop supportive relationships with faculty, staff, and fellow students. Other benefits the program provides include:
- Priority enrollment in Adelante classes;
- Ongoing follow-up and contact with academic counselors;
- Free tutoring in math and English;
- Participation in classes with a large Latino enrollment;
- Being part of a network of Latino students and faculty;
- Experienced faculty interested in promoting Latino student success; and
- Eligibility for specially designated Latino Center Scholarships.
To join the Adelante Program, students must attend an information session and meet with a Latino Center counselor. For more information, students should visit the Adelante Program website or call the Latino Center.
Program Overview, afrotc.com
LMU AFROTC Detachment 040, 310-338-2770
lmu.edu/afrotc
Email: det040@lmu.edu
UCLA AFROTC Detachment 055, 310-825-1742
afrotc.ucla.edu
Email: afrotc@ucla.edu
Santa Monica College students interested in obtaining a commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force may begin the process by participating in the first two years of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) program through arrangements with Loyola Marymount University (LMU) and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA). Requirements to receive a commission include — but are not limited to — completing AFROTC classes for freshmen and sophomores, transferring to a four-year college or university, and earning a Bachelor degree.
Academic hours earned in AFROTC classes can usually be counted as elective credit toward graduation. AFROTC offers a variety of multi-year scholarships, many of which pay full tuition and fees. AFROTC cadets on scholarship also receive a tax-free monthly stipend. For more information, students should visit any of the AFROTC websites listed above, or call or send an email to either of the AFROTC detachments listed.
smc.edu/ambassadors
Student Services Center S116
Email: ambassadors@smc.edu
Student Ambassadors are often the first point of contact at the Student Services Center, greeting all visitors to provide a resource of information and referrals to help them get connected at SMC and to enhance their college experience. Ambassadors can offer assistance through in-person meetings and through remote applications (chat, virtual cafes, etc.). Ambassadors maintain a legacy of leadership in peer-to-peer support through authentic, informed, proactive, and responsive engagement. They are peer advocates committed to supporting students' success.
More information and an Ambassador Program application are available on the website.
smc.edu/blackcollegians
Student Services Center S201, 310-434-4232
The Black Collegians Program Umoja Community is designed to help nurture the whole self; academically, socially, and emotionally. We focus on centering our African heritage and celebrating our interconnectedness with the African diaspora. We believe in the African philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are; because we are, I am.” As a member of this familial program, we abide by community agreements for students to maintain membership (including counseling and activity requirements). The staff and faculty of this program also hold ourselves accountable to our students to provide them with the services that they need to contribute to their success. Our commitment is to offer experiences built upon an ethic of love and student success practices.
We work to help students to attain their personal and educational goals, with a particular focus on students obtaining an Associate degree and/or transferring to four-year colleges and universities. We do this through special benefits such as academic and personal counseling, mental health services, priority registration, workshops, tutoring, and scholarships. The program also offers sections of classes with curriculum designed to enhance awareness of the contributions that people of African descent have made to the global society.
Black Collegians is a member of the statewide Umoja Community, a collection of African-centered programs throughout the state of California at various community colleges and four-year schools.
smc.edu/calworks
Student Services Center S238, 310-434-4082
California Work Opportunities and Responsibilities to Kids (CalWORKs) at Santa Monica College works in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) and Greater Avenues to Independence (GAIN) to assist students who receive Temporary Aid for Needy Families (TANF) with services aimed at helping individuals move toward self-sufficiency.
CalWORKs offers:
- Individual academic, career, and transfer counseling;
- Employment assistance, including on-campus work-study assignments, resumé writing, job-search skills, and interview preparation; and
- Coordination with DPSS, including completing county forms, progress reports, educational plans, as well as training verification.
For more information, students should visit our webpage or stop by the CalWORKs office.
smc.edu/eops
Student Services Center S238, 310-434-4268
CARE (Cooperative Agencies & Resources for Education) is a state-funded counseling and retention program that offers educational and other support to help low-income EOPS single parenting students achieve their education goals.
CARE program services include academic counseling, parenting workshops, and financial assistance for students who are dependents and who are receiving TANF cash aid and attending SMC as full-time students.
For an application or to obtain more information, students should call EOPS or visit the EOPS website.
Career Education (CE) programs at Santa Monica College offer industry-linked programs and services that prepare students for entry-level professional employment opportunities, typically within one to four semesters. The courses are led by educators with extensive expertise in their field, with many CE instructors and trainers also holding active positions outside of SMC.
CE programs leading to Associate degrees, Certificates of Achievement, and Department Certificates are offered in a wide variety of fields, including:
- Business
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computer Science and Information Systems
- Cosmetology
- Design Technology
- Early Childhood Education
- Fashion Design and Merchandising
- Health Sciences
- Kinesiology/Physical Education
- Life Sciences
- Office Technology
- Photography
- Sustainable Technologies
- Theatre Arts
Students who successfully complete a CE program leave SMC with a wide range of knowledge — theoretical, hands-on, applied, and experiential — and a strong relationship with employers. For more information and a detailed list of CE programs and their requirements, students should visit the CE webpage.
smc.edu/disabledstudent
Student Services Center S155, 310-434-4265
Email: dsps@smc.edu
High Tech Training Center
Student Services Center S159, 310-434-4267
Learning Disabilities Program
Student Services Center S370, 310-434-468
Acquired Brain Injury/Pathfinders, 310-434-4442
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, 310-434-4497
The Center for Students with Disabilities ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to all programs and activities on campus. The Center’s primary goal is to encourage and promote independence in students so they may achieve their full potential. The Center offers a number of specialized programs to support students with their academic, vocational, and career planning goals.
Academic counselors provide education planning and academic accommodations to students with a variety of disabilities. Students with disabilities who may require accommodations are encouraged to meet with a counselor and become familiar with the services available to them.
The Learning Disabilities Program provides placement processes, specialized study skills, appropriate accommodations, and other support for students with learning disabilities. The High Tech Training Center provides support and accommodations to all students with a disability who may require assistive technology to mitigate their disability-related educational limitations. The Acquired Brain Injury program provides educational opportunities for students by matching their current abilities with appropriate support services and beneficial instruction. The Pathfinders program offers services to students following a stroke. Deaf or hard of hearing students may receive support through a variety of support services such as sign language interpreters, CART/real time captioning, or assistive listening devices.
Various classes offered by the staff of the Center for Students with Disabilities are listed in SMC’s Schedule of Classes. Listings under the heading “Counseling – Disabled Student Services” include classes on Roadmap to College Success, Career Planning, Job Search Techniques, Adapted Computer Technology, Social Awareness, and learning and study skills. Listings under the heading “Counseling – Adult Education” include a class for students with acquired brain injuries (Counseling 910, ABI Connections).
The Center for Students with Disabilities assists in determining appropriate academic adjustments for qualified students with disabilities. For more information on how to qualify for services, students should call 310-434-4265 or email dsps@smc.edu.
commed.smc.edu
SMC Community Education
Emeritus Campus, Room 410
1227 Second St., Santa Monica, 310-434-3400
SMC Community Education meets the lifelong learning needs of the community by providing a choice of dozens of classes each semester to individuals who wish to explore their personal interests or enhance professional skills. Our low-cost, not-for-credit courses respond to the interests of the community, enriching lives through hands-on work-shops and lively classes in art, writing, dance, and many other areas. Classes on a wide range of topics are also offered online. More information is available by calling the SMC Community Education office or visiting the Community Education website.
smc.edu/athletics
Corsair Gym, 2nd Floor 310-434-4311
Santa Monica College has a proud tradition of championship teams and student-athlete alumni who have gone on to successful careers at the four-year college and professional team levels. SMC is a member of the California Community College Commission on Athletics and competes against many local colleges in the Western States Conference. The College sponsors a broad-based athletics program of 8 men’s and 10 women’s teams that have accumulated 83 Conference and 13 State championship titles. Men’s teams include: Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Soccer, Swimming and Diving, Track and Field, Volleyball, and Water Polo. Women’s teams include: Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Cross Country, Soccer, Softball, Swimming and Diving, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, and Water Polo.
To enhance athletics and fitness options for students, SMC established the Core Performance Center (CPC), featuring dance and exercise studios, fully equipped workout rooms, showers and dressing rooms, and a climbing wall.
smc.edu/OnlineEd
Student Services Center S355, 310-434-3760
Santa Monica College is committed to providing education programs and services to students who are at sites distant from the SMC campus and to students who need to choose alternatives to the fixed schedule, place, program, and structure of traditional classroom-based education.
The Santa Monica College Office of Distance Education offers classes for transfer, certificates, and skill building through a virtual campus at smc.edu/OnlineEd.
Enrollment, registration, payment, academic counseling, books, and library resources are available to students through the main smc.edu website.
For course offerings, technology requirements, admission and registration procedures, student services, and other information, students should visit the main smc.edu website.
Students can access Canvas user guides, explore technical requirements, and take a self-paced tour of the Canvas platform at smc.edu/OnlineEd.
smc.edu/dream
Student Services Center S238, 310-434-4892
Undocumented Student Ally Program
smc.edu/undocually
Student Services Center S238, 310-434-4491
The Santa Monica College DREAM Program provides support services to undocumented students. The program works to increase the personal growth, development, and retention of DREAM students through academic, career, and personal counseling; assistance in applying for the California Dream Act/Financial Aid and scholarships; and providing workshops of special interest to undocumented students and their families. Students should email DREAM@smc.edu for more information, or to schedule an appointment with a DREAM counselor.
DREAM also operates SMC’s Undocumented Student Ally Program (better known as UndocuAlly), a network of Santa Monica College faculty, staff, managers, and students committed to providing support, education and understanding to SMC’s undocumented students. Program participants attend a three-hour training session that includes an overview of the history and policies affecting undocumented students, information about special campus resources, and what it means to be an ally to undocumented students.
See Center for Students with Disabilities
Credit Program: smc.edu/esl
Corner of 16th St. & Pearl St.,
Santa Monica 310-434-4260
Santa Monica College offers four programs for English-
language learners:
- A credit program offering classes in the ESL Department designed to prepare students for the reading, writing, listening, speaking, and study skills needed for college success and career enhancement; (see smc.edu/esl for details).
- A fee-based intensive English program designed for students who do not meet the TOEFL requirement to enroll in regular college classes (see smc.edu/international for information);
- A noncredit (adult education) program that offers free noncredit ESL and citizenship preparation classes for adults in the community (call 310-434-3399); and
- A fee-based ESL program offering workshops, courses, occupational training, and English for special-purpose courses at business and industry sites (see smc.edu/workforcedevelopment for information).
smc.edu/eops
Student Services Center S238, 310-434-4268
EOPS (Extended Opportunity Program and Services) is a state-funded support program to help students achieve their education goals. EOPS is designed for students who have historically experienced economic and educational disadvantages, and who desire to pursue a degree or certificate program on a full-time basis.
EOPS offers comprehensive support services, including academic counseling; supplemental textbook vouchers; free tutoring; priority enrollment; and student success workshops. Eligibility for EOPS is based on economic guidelines provided by the State of California.
For an application or to obtain more information, students should visit the EOPS website or call the EOPS office.
Access to nutritious food is a challenge for many students at SMC. Santa Monica College has established Bodega — a centralized food pantry — and developed several programs to provide free or low-cost meals to students, and to help students find affordable and free sources of nutritious food in their community.
For more information, students should visit the website.
smc.edu/fosterservices
Student Services Center S238, 310-434-4491
The SMC Foster Service Support Programs (FSSP) provide services and support to current or former foster youth (FFY) attending Santa Monica College. The programs support their academic and personal goals by helping students to connect, achieve, and increase academic awareness, as they embark on their journey in higher education. Our focus is to equip and empower our students to not just do well academically, but also to attain the necessary skills for the sustainability and personal empowerment needed to overcome possible challenges and barriers to their success. Our programs include the state-funded NextUp program, and Guardian Scholars.
Students are eligible to join Foster Service Support Programs if they are:
- A current or former foster youth,
- Between the ages of 18 and 24, and
- Enrolled in nine (9) or more semester units at SMC.
The benefits of participating in these programs include:
- Individual academic, transfer, career, and wellness counseling services;
- Assistance with financial aid and the California Chafee Grant;
- Enrollment assistance;
- Textbook assistance;
- Free tutoring and academic support services;
- Access to a variety of academic workshops;
- Referrals to psychological and personal counseling services;
- Referrals to specific community agencies for housing and medical assistance, and for scholarship opportunities;
- Meal assistance;
- Access to Food Pantry; and
- Transportation assistance.
More information about these programs is available on the website.
Concurrent Enrollment:
smc.edu/hsce, 310-434-3522
Email: concurrentenrollment@smc.edu
Dual Enrollment:
smc.edu/dualenrollment
High School Counseling Department
Santa Monica College offers two programs that permit high school students to take SMC classes and receive college credit. The Concurrent Enrollment Program allows qualifying high school students to apply to SMC and enroll in classes offered at an SMC campus and online. Students planning to participate in this program should send an email requesting information. The Dual Enrollment Program offers a selection of college classes that students can attend at their participating local high school. To participate in the Dual Enrollment Program, students should discuss their plans with their high school counselor.
Santa Monica College has active on-campus chapters of several honors societies, which encourage and offer recognition of outstanding accomplishments and scholastic achievement.
• Alpha Gamma Sigma: Membership in Alpha Gamma Sigma is one of the highest honors a student may attain. A student is eligible for initial membership in Alpha Gamma Sigma the semester after achieving a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.00 in a program of at least 12 units (exclusive of physical education). All life members of the California Scholarship Federation who graduated with a minimum GPA of 3.50 are eligible for temporary membership their first semester at Santa Monica College. Permanent membership in Alpha Gamma Sigma is restricted to students who have completed at least 60 units, have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.50, and have been a certified member for at least one term, OR who have completed at least 60 units, have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25, and have been a certified member for at least two terms.
- Alpha Mu Gamma: Alpha Mu Gamma is a national honorary foreign language society that encourages interest and scholarship in foreign languages and promotes international communication, enlightenment, and sympathetic understanding of other peoples and cultures. Membership requirements are a grade of A (4.0) during two unrepeated semesters of studying the same language and an overall grade point average of 2.0 or higher in two semesters of college-level courses. Candidates from countries where English is a foreign language may meet membership requirements in their native language by submitting transcripts showing the classes they completed in secondary school in their homeland and achieving an overall grade point average of 2.0 or higher in one semester of college-level courses in the United States.
- Phi Theta Kappa: Phi Theta Kappa was chartered at SMC in fall 2001 to recognize and encourage scholarship among students at two-year colleges. To achieve this purpose, Phi Theta Kappa provides opportunities for: leadership development, scholarship, service, an intellectual climate that fosters the exchange of ideas and ideals, lively fellowship for scholars, and stimulating interest in continuing academic excellence. An invitation to membership in Phi Theta Kappa is extended to full-time students who achieve a 3.0 grade point average.
- Psi Beta: Psi Beta is a national honors society that encourages professional development, psychological literacy, and dedication to the field of psychology among students in two-year colleges. Membership requirements include a grade of B (3.0) or higher in a college psychology class and a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 or higher after completing 12 units of college coursework. See psibeta.org or send email to psychsmc@gmail.com for additional details.
- Sigma Chi Eta: To encourage community college students to explore options in the field of communication, including transfer to four-year colleges or universities or entry into the workforce, the National Communication Association (NCA) established the honors society Sigma Chi Eta. Membership requirements include completing 12 units of college coursework with a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher in all courses taken, and completing at least 9 units of communication studies coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.25 for all communication studies courses. See natcom.org or send email to inbox@natcom.org for additional details.
Student Services Center S332, 310-434-4217
Email: intled@smc.edu
SMC’s International Education Center provides a wide range of services to more than 2,000 students who come from more than 90 nations around the world to attend Santa Monica College. Services include:
- Assistance with nonimmigration F-1 student status;
- Academic counseling and orientation;
- Assistance in applying to, enrolling in, and selecting appropriate courses at Santa Monica College;
- Preparation for transfer from Santa Monica College to
a four-year college or university; and - Not-for-credit Intensive English Program;
- Assistance in housing; and
- Social events on the SMC campus.
The International Education Center includes International Admissions; the Office of the Dean, International Education; International Programs; and the International Education Counseling Center.
International Admissions is responsible for processing all international student applications, registration, and nonimmigration matters.
The Office of the Dean, International Education, oversees international programs and the recruitment, admission, counseling, and retention of international students.
International Programs oversees special international programs, the Intensive English Program, Study Abroad Programs, and Special Programs.
International Education Counseling Center
The International Education Counseling Center (310-434-4218) offers academic advising and counseling for new and continuing international students. This office also assists international students with housing information, including an up-to-date bulletin of housing options. Counselors are available to assist students with their SMC requirements, academic issues, and information on transferring to other colleges or universities. Students can seek assistance from a counselor throughout the year on a walk-in basis. At selected times of the academic year, students may also make an appointment to meet with a counselor.
Intensive English Program
The Intensive English Program provides 20 hours per week of not-for-credit content-based English instruction in reading, writing, and speaking at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. The Intensive English Program is designed to prepare students to enter the undergraduate program by improving their English proficiency through extensive reading, writing, listening, and speaking classes.
Study Abroad Programs
The International Education Center is also home to SMC’s study abroad programs (see Study Abroad Programs, below, for details). The faculty-led programs — offered at various times of year — are designed to immerse students in an exciting and engaging academic program abroad while they earn SMC credit, further their own intercultural awareness, and foster a more global perspective. Interested students should send email to studyabroad@smc.edu or visit smc.edu/studyabroad for information about these exciting programs.
For more information about the International Education Center or any of its programs — including the Intensive English Program — students should see the IEC website or call the International Education Center.smc.edu/internship
Student Services Center S110, 310-434-4337
The Internship Program at Santa Monica College makes it possible for students to enhance their classroom learning by working in on- and off-campus internships/jobs, and earn college credit for their work experience. The program is a joint effort of SMC and the community to give students the chance to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to progress in their careers by combining work-based learning and experience with classroom instruction. To qualify, a student must be considered “continuing” from the previous semester. A continuing student is one who completed at least six units the previous spring or fall semester.
Internship-related courses are offered on a pass/no pass basis. SMC students may enroll in internship courses for a maximum of 4 (four) units per semester. Up to 8 (eight) units of internship credit may be applied as elective credit toward a certificate or an Associate degree. Students earn credit based on the number of hours of work experience. Each unit of credit requires a student to work a minimum of 60 hours of unpaid (volunteer) work per semester or 75 hours of paid work throughout the semester.
SMC’s Career Services Center hosts internship fairs throughout the year, offering students the opportunity to meet potential employers and ask questions about the internships being offered. Students should visit the Internship website (smc.edu/internship) to find out when the next internship fair will be held.
For further information, students should call the Internship Program office or visit the Internship Program website.
smc.edu/LatinoCenter
Student Services Center S201, 310-434-4459
The Latino Center promotes student success by providing a support network of comprehensive bilingual services, including:
- Academic, career, and personal counseling;
- Education planning;
- Free tutoring in math and English;
- Financial aid and scholarship information; and
- Transfer planning.
The Latino Center offers the Adelante Program, an academic support program that assists students in meeting their transfer goals and promotes student success. See Adelante Program, above, for details.
All students are encouraged to visit the Latino Center website and explore what it has to offer.
smc.edu/noncredit
Bundy Campus, Room 112
3171 S. Bundy Dr., Los Angeles 310-434-3399
Email: noncreditregistration@smc.edu
SMC Noncredit (Adult Education) Initiatives/Programs offers
free noncredit certificate programs and courses, along with
student support services to adult learners in the areas of:
- Short-term vocational and workforce preparation courses and certificates for students seeking entry-level employment.
- English as a second language (ESL) courses for individuals who wish to develop their English reading, writing, and conversational skills before gaining employment or entering college programs that earn credit; and
- Citizenship preparation classes for adults seeking US citizenship.
The free short-term vocational certificates can be earned in as little as one semester, and the free noncredit ESL and citizenship preparation classes are repeatable and have open entry/open exit enrollment, giving students the freedom and flexibility they need.
Noncredit Program Counseling
Noncredit Program Counseling services include dedicated counselors on the Bundy Campus to assist students with questions regarding ESL placement, career readiness, financial aid, and educational planning, as well as services to help students transition to credit programs and the workforce (building resumes, preparing for interviews, or finding volunteer/job opportunities). The program also partners with community resources to assist students with their educational and workforce pursuits.
Santa Monica College is committed to providing educational programs, degrees, and certificates to students who are at sites away from the SMC campus and to students who need to choose alternatives to the fixed schedule, place, program, and structure of traditional classroom-based education. For details, students should visit smc.edu/online.
smc.edu/peernavigators
Student Services Center S145
Email: peernavigator@smc.edu
The Peer Navigator Program — a students-helping-students program — connects first-year SMC students with student leaders trained to provide one-on-one support and direction in navigating college and making the most of the SMC experience.
Peer Navigators are knowledgeable about SMC and offer guidance, listen to a student’s concerns and experiences, suggest resources, and answer questions. Through mentoring, frequent communication, workshops, and social and educational events, Peer Navigators serve as mentors, allies, and advocates to help students build positive relationships and enhance their college experience beyond the classroom.
More information is available on the website or by sending email. To be connected to a Peer Navigator, students should visit the website and fill out a Peer Navigator Request Form.
smc.edu/picopartnership
Student Services Center S238, 310-434-4926
The Pico Partnership Program is a collaboration between Santa Monica College and the City of Santa Monica. The program meets the needs of the underserved, under-represented youth who live in close proximity to the College. Pico Partnership motivates and assists young adults to attend SMC and work toward their career and education goals. Each student in the program works one-on-one with a counselor. The program provides students with the following services:
- Early enrollment;
- Academic and transfer counseling;
- Assistance with financial aid;
- Direct aid grants;
- Wellness counseling; and
- Career counseling.
Students are eligible to participate in Pico Partnership if they are 17 to 24 years of age, formerly attended Santa Monica High School or Olympic High School, demonstrate financial need, and have a strong desire to refocus their lives with a positive outlook on their future. Program participants are encouraged to serve as role models for other young adults, inviting them to consider the opportunities and benefits that a college education can offer. To find out how to join the program, students should see the Pico Partnership website.
smc.edu/rising
Student Services Center S238
Email: rising@smc.edu
The RISING Program is committed to empowering students with the successful transition into college after incarceration. RISING supports the enrollment, retention, graduation, and transfer of system-impacted and formerly incarcerated students, and aims to support their academic, social, and emotional wellbeing by providing services that are focused on access, equity, and inclusion.
smc.edu/freetuition
Student Services Center S110, 310-434-8101
The Santa Monica College Promise program offers free enrollment and other benefits to California residents who graduate from a California high school or complete a high school equivalency test (e.g., GED® or HISET) in 2023, have submitted a FAFSA or California Dream Act application, and are headed to SMC in fall 2023 or spring 2024 as first-year, full-time students (12 or more units). SMC Promise helps cover:
- Enrollment fees;
- Health Services fee;
- Student Benefits fee, which supports access to technology, transportation options (including rides at no extra cost on all Big Blue Bus and Metro buses and trains, and a selection of rideshare and bike programs), and the LiveSafe app;
- Student Representation fee; and
- Associated Students Resource fee, which funds programs and initiatives such as clubs, basic needs, student government, academic support, sustainability efforts, and other campus activities.
SMC Promise also offers significant textbook vouchers and other benefits to qualifying students.
smc.edu/scholars
Student Services Center S221, 310-434-4371
Email: scholars@smc.edu
The Scholars Program is a distinctive academic community within the larger Santa Monica College campus. Offering rigorous academic preparation and university-level study, the program aims to prepare students — particularly first-year students, first-generation college students, students from underserved schools and communities, and non-traditional students — for transfer to the colleges and universities of their choice. Scholars students are a talented group of highly motivated individuals whose goals demand specialized and intense academic preparation and study.
Through special transfer agreements with top four-year colleges and universities, Scholars students are given priority consideration for admission to the following campuses: The UCLA College (formerly College of Letters and Science) TAP, UC Irvine, Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Chapman University, and many others.
The Scholars Program philosophy is to promote mastery of subject matter demonstrated through writing, exposure to research, critical thinking, and analysis. Scholars courses are taught by faculty who are highly recommended by their respective departments and their students. The Scholars Program coursework provides students with the educational background essential to university-level work.
smc.edu/emeritus
1227 Second St., Santa Monica, 310-434-4306
Email: emeritus@smc.edu, silverman_scott@smc.edu
SMC Emeritus is a unique noncredit program at Santa Monica College for adults age 55 and up. Established in 1975, the model program’s curriculum includes courses designed to serve the interests and needs of adults who are now in or preparing for retirement, those dedicated to lifelong learning, and those seeking continued personal growth through creative use of their time. SMC Emeritus classes — except during the COVID-19 pandemic, when all classes are online —are offered primarily during the day at the SMC Emeritus Campus near the popular Third Street Promenade, and throughout the community — including Malibu — in easily accessible locations. There are no fees for the noncredit courses. Registration and enrollment are by mail, walk-in, or Internet. Registration forms are included in the SMC Emeritus schedule of classes and may also be downloaded from the SMC Emeritus website. SMC Emeritus also operates an art gallery (smc.edu/emeritusgallery) and hosts opening receptions for its exhibitions of works by students and members of the community. More information is available by calling the SMC Emeritus office or visiting the Emeritus website.
smc.edu/stem
Drescher Hall 301, 310-434-3988
Email: stem@smc.edu
Santa Monica College’s STEM initiatives foster the student skills necessary to excel in science, technology, engineering, and math courses. The Maximizing Achievement in STEM (MAS) program is an academic support program designed to help traditionally under-represented students who are interested in STEM careers complete their studies successfully at SMC, transfer to a four-year research-oriented baccalaureate program, and enter the STEM workforce. Any student interested in STEM can take advantage of the following STEM-focused services and activities:
- Supplemental instruction (SI);
- Peer tutoring and coaching;
- Wellness therapist;
- Transfer and career counseling;
- Faculty-led workshops and events;
- Internship and research opportunities;
- Specialized STEM courses;
- STEM Cool Careers Panels, STEM Days on the Quad, and STEM student clubs.
STEM students are also encouraged to apply to the Science and Research Initiative Program (SRI). For more information, students should see the STEM/MAS Program webpage or call the office.
smc.edu/studentemployment
Student Services Center S133, 310-434-4343
The Student Employment Program — offered through the Career Services Center and processed through the Financial Aid Office — assists SMC students seeking part-time jobs at Santa Monica College, and offers students information on the skills and characteristics of a successful employee. On-campus jobs are available in many departments and programs on SMC’s Main and satellite campuses.
Students may be employed at SMC under two special budget programs: Student Help (SH) and Federal Work-Study (FWS). SH pays students to work on campus through department and program budgets. FWS is a Financial Aid award that pays a student wages for employment. The award is funded through the Federal Work-Study Program, a Federal financial aid program that requires that the student apply for Federal financial aid, meet specific eligibility requirements, and be awarded FWS funds by the Financial Aid Office.
To be employed as a student worker at Santa Monica College, a student must have a valid Social Security (SS) Card with the correct spelling of the student’s name. F-1 students will be given a form letter to request an SS card from the Social Security Office.
For more information, students should visit the Student Employment website or call the Career Services Center. For additional student employment options, students should consult the Career Services Center.
smc.edu/studyabroad
International Education Center
Student Services Center S332, 310-434-4342
Santa Monica College is committed to promoting global citizenship. To support that goal, SMC’s International Education Center offers several Study Abroad opportunities led by SMC faculty members. Tailored to make the most of a destination’s resources, the Study Abroad programs take students to another country and immerse them in an exciting and engaging learning program. Each program gives students the opportunity to earn SMC credit as they expand their own intercultural awareness and foster a more global experience. Students who successfully complete a minimum of three semester units while attending a Study Abroad program will fulfill SMC’s Global Citizenship graduation requirement for the Associate degree. Students should see the International Education Center or call the office for details.
smc.edu/si
Drescher Hall 302, 310-434-4121
The Supplemental Instruction (SI) Program provides academic assistance through free out-of-class sessions for SMC students enrolled in specific courses. During SI sessions, SI leaders present interactive group activities that engage students to help them learn course concepts, prepare for exams, and develop effective study skills. The sessions are voluntary, and help students develop a better understanding of course content, as well as more effective ways of studying.
SI also offers peer-facilitated study sessions led by students who have successfully taken the course, and are prepared to share what they have learned about how to study the material. Students engage in interactive study groups, discuss course content, learn and integrate study skills, participate in learning activities, and take mock exams.
Please Note: SI sessions are NOT tutoring sessions like the ones offered at various on-campus tutoring labs, and SI leaders do NOT tutor or assist students with homework problems.
Students should see the SI website for details.
smc.edu/sustainabilitycenter
1744 Pearl St., Santa Monica 310-434-3909
The Sustainability Center was established to provide SMC students and faculty with a space to facilitate meaningful exploration of key environmental and urban issues and solutions. The facility is a living laboratory for sustainability, featuring many innovative green building materials and practices. The Center provides eco-tours, a library for books and videos, a library for seeds, useful sustainability resources, demonstration gardens, and a variety of other services and activities related to environmental and urban studies.
Students interested in obtaining environmental degrees, taking environmental courses, or building their transfer applications and resumes through applied learning opportunities are encouraged to visit the Sustainability Center and find out more about sustainability at SMC. The Center also provides internships and Federal Work-Study student staff positions focused on environmental research and advocacy.
The Sustainability Center is home to student environmental clubs and committees working on campus sustainability initiatives and research. From time to time, the Center also sponsors talks, which are free and open to the public, and offer the opportunity to meet and engage in dialogue with experts in the field.
The Sustainability Center is also headquarters for Sustainable Works (sustainableworks.org), a nonprofit offering special programs that show individuals and businesses how they can adopt sustainable practices that improve quality of life, reduce impacts on the environment, and decrease costs.
For more information, students should see the Sustainability Center website.
smc.edu/ece
Bundy Campus, 3rd Floor
3171 S. Bundy Dr., Los Angeles, 310-434-8109
The Teacher Academy at Santa Monica College — a program of the SMC Education/Early Childhood Department — is a campus community for prospective educators of children from birth through 12th grade. The Teacher Academy was started in 1994 to foster a growing pool of future educators by offering courses, hands-on fieldwork experiences, mentorships, and a wide variety of support services and grants to help our students succeed as quality professionals in education.
Our program offers options for professional early childhood education certification — including Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Teacher certification — as well as professional development and transfer to four-year institutions to complete a PK-12 teacher credential. All options are designed to prepare students to work with linguistically and culturally diverse groups of children and families in schools, centers, and homes. Courses are offered during the day, in the evening, on weekends, and online.
To find out more about the Teacher Academy and its offerings, students should visit our website or give us a call.
smc.edu/vet
Cayton Center, Lower Level, Room 006, 310-434-8205
SMC’s Veterans Success Center provides support to a student’s transition from the military to college. The VSC offers a place where student veterans and their families can be supported and build community. Through the VSC, veterans have access to academic, career, and transfer counseling, as well as financial aid, tutoring, mental health counseling, and other services that help students achieve their education goals. A free textbook-lending library, study pods, computer lab, tutoring room, and a lounge are also available to all student veterans and their family members.
All Veterans Affairs paperwork for students receiving benefits under Chapters 33 and 35 of the GI Bill® is also processed through the Veterans Success Center. [GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).] More information about education benefits offered by the VA is available at the official U.S. government website at benefits.va.gov/gibill.
For more information, students should visit the Veterans Success Center website or drop by the VSC,.
smc.edu/workforcedevelopment
Bundy Campus, Room 417
3171 S. Bundy Dr., Los Angeles, 310-434-4199
Santa Monica College’s Office of Workforce & Economic Development (W&ED) works with government funding sources to consolidate, coordinate, and improve employment, training, and literacy throughout our community by developing programs for students and business and industry professionals to further their education and advance their careers.
W&ED understands that the growing pressure from international competition, the rapid change of technology, and the competitive position of the Los Angeles region and the state of California in the global marketplace are largely dependent on a highly skilled workforce. W&ED, as a department in a premier educational institution, knows its role in the development of a workforce that attracts new business to the region and supports the growth of existing business and emerging industries.
W&ED also has a commitment to provide Career Education (CE) programs that prepare students to enter or advance in their careers. W&ED manages a variety of grants providing support to SMC’s Career Education faculty and programs. W&ED also helps support pathway development efforts by collaborating with K-12 partners to create robust Career Education pathways that provide career exploration and dual/concurrent enrollment opportunities to high school students.
SMC’s Workforce and Economic Development Office offers a variety of services and training programs for area employers and residents. W&ED designs customized programs to help develop the skilled workforce that the region needs to increase its economic growth and compete successfully in today’s global market.
The W&ED website offers useful tools to help students with their career goals. Students interested in Career Education (CE) will find resources they can download. One resource is Career Coach, which provides the opportunity to learn about employment prospects in the field, job opportunities, income potential, related degrees, and the education and training available at Santa Monica College.