About Us

Welcome to Rio Salado College

About Us:


In 1978, the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) challenged the limits of tradition by creating Rio Salado College to serve non-traditional students. The College has maintained a tradition of excellence in distance learning for more than 40 years. Rio Salado is one of 10 independently accredited colleges comprising the MCCCD, which is overseen by an elected governing board. Serving more than 340,000 students online for more than 20 years, Rio Salado is dedicated to providing innovative educational opportunities through college bridge pathways, community-based learning, corporate and government partnerships, and early college initiatives.

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Accreditation

Rio Salado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. In addition, certain educational programs may have additional accreditation through specialized agencies.

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Leadership and Divisions

Learn more about Rio Salado College's president, administration, and academic divisions: academic affairs, student affairs, administrative services, technology and infrastructure, public service, and strategy and advancement.

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College Made Convenient

See how Rio Salado College is meeting the needs of today's students.

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Meet The President

With nearly 30 years of experience in education, Dr. Kate Smith is a highly regarded and enthusiastic leader who advocates for student success on all levels. 

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Our Faculty

Meet Rio Salado's residential faculty members who are dedicated to teaching, learning and student success.

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Teaching and Learning

Learn more about our commitment to academic standards and student learning, outstanding adjunct faculty, how to teach for Rio, and more.

 

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News and Resources

Stay up to date on all things Rio through our blogs, news releases, and social media platforms.

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Maps and Locations

Rio Salado has several locations throughout the greater Phoenix area to serve students and our local communities. Find a location near you. 

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Research and Planning

An overview of Rio Salado College, our students, programs, successes and initiatives.

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Certificate and Degree Programs

Choose from 135+ certificate and degree programs.

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Award-Winning Workplace

Rio Salado College has been recognized as a Great Colleges to Work For® Honor Roll institution, reflecting our commitment to a supportive, collaborative workplace.

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