What is available?

✅ View the complete list of WSCC Programs. Each program will have a summary, but also look at the required course list; do those classes sound interesting to you?

Be Career Oriented

A smart place to start is exploring careers and their educational requirements. Not every job requires a college degree, but being a surgeon definitely requires multiple degrees and passing state exams.

Careers can be grouped into clusters of similar interests, skills, or knowledge. Combined with the process of elimination, you can quickly narrow down your interests. 

🔎 Explore Career Clusters

🔎 Try Networking! Reach out to a professional in that field and ask about their day-to-day routines. Remember to be respectful of their time and come prepared with questions; good meetings can easily last 30 - 60 minutes. 

You can always decide later.

Many students start college undecided or change their major after starting.

Complete the West Shore Community College Application in minutes, no essay required!

⚠️ The WSCC Application requires your full 9-digit Social Security Number.

When to Apply

Community colleges use rolling admissions; you can apply at any time, but considering scholarship deadlines, it's best to apply in December or January for a fall semester start.

✅ Complete the WSCC Application.

High School Transcript

✅ Send an official copy of your high school transcript to WSCC. Ask your school counselor how your school sends transcripts; Ludington High School uses Parchment.

After your application is processed, you will receive an email with directions for creating your student account. You will also gain access to their Canvas account, where you will complete the online orientation. 

✅ Check your email regularly, including your school email, once activated, for important messages regarding your enrollment.

Scheduling Classes

⚠️ You cannot enroll in classes until you have completed the online orientation; Fall 2026 class registration opens for new students on April 13, 2026.

✅ It is recommended that you meet with an Academic Advisor to schedule your first-semester courses. 

☑️ You can also register for classes through your student portal.

🔎 View the 2026-27 WSCC Academic Calendar to see all important dates.

If you are a resident and recent graduate of a Mason County school, you can attend WSCC tuition-free! The Mason County Promise covers up to 72 attempted credits, which is more than the average associate's degree.

✅ Apply for the Promise.

🔎 Learn more about the Mason County Promise.

⚠️ Students must complete the FAFSA to be eligible.

Not all community colleges offer the same programs or student services. Schools offering sport teams, housing, or unique programs can attract out-of-district students. This will be a higher tuition than your local in-district cc, but definitely still cheaper than a university's tuition rates.

🔎 Explore all of Michigan's Community Colleges.

⚠️ Remember to verify housing options; schools without housing might list local apartment complexes that serve students.