<p>Hello Nemesis, nice to meet you. Community colleges in California are a well organized network of 2 year schools, and I will let Calmom discuss specifics. In general, a community college offers a range of classes, including basic education classes required by the 4 year universities of that state - courses like calculus, biology, history, political science, English literature - and some special practical programs that lead to a terminal degree after 2 years, things like practical nursing, for example. Most community colleges offer some enrichment programs for non-degree seeking students like art or film or personal finance. Many enroll high schools students for accelerated or enrichment classes, or just to get ahead in college.</p>
<p>More pertinent to you is that courses taken at community colleges are cheap (compared to costs at say Berkeley), and if chosen properly will transfer to the 4 year state university - Calmom will give you specifics, but my understanding is that the Cal, system is excellent, and well coordinated.</p>