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Where is Santa Monica College located?

The central location for most of Santa Monica College’s (SMC) classes and services is directly located in the blossoming district of Pico Boulevard on the southern end of Santa Monica, in Los Angeles County, California.

Santa Monica

A relatively small city that covers an area of just 8.3 square miles (21.5 square kilometres), Santa Monica is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the city of Los Angeles to the north and east, and the city of Venice to the south.

Thanks to this ideal location, SMC’s main campus is a gateway to a vibrant world of adventure, culture, and coastal charm.

It is where academic dreams meet sun-kissed beaches. Enjoy a great mix of laid-back beach vibe and a bustling cosmopolitan lifestyle while you receive a world-class education in a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty and affluence.

Pico Boulevard

A major Los Angeles Street that runs from the Pacific Ocean at Appian Way in Santa Monica to Central Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles, Pico Boulevard is one of the best places to live in the state of California.

Living in Pico offers an urban feel with plenty of diverse attractions to pique anyone’s interest.

The area is home to a mix of unique art galleries, bars, live music venues, shops, street art murals, and parks. You won’t run out of options when it comes to food either, with a variety of award-winning restaurants and the beloved Santa Monica Farmers Market offering temptations for almost any palate.

Enjoy a wide range of fully inclusive theatrical entertainment at the oldest theatrical organisation in the city. Home to the award-winning YES theatre program, the Morgan-Wixson Theatre draws rave reviews for its balanced offerings of plays and musicals.

Beautiful landscape

With the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other, Santa Monica is blessed with breathtaking landscapes that will inspire your inner explorer.

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Santa Monica has a variety of hiking trails, bike paths, and parks to explore. Take a hike in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains, where winding trails lead you to panoramic vistas and hidden gems. Or head to Palisades Park, a tranquil oasis that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, and lose yourself in its lush greenery and serene atmosphere.

The SMC campus is just a stone’s throw away from the inviting Pacific Ocean. Imagine walking out of class, and within minutes, you can dip your toes into the salty waves or soak up the sun on the sandy shores.

Experience the surf-and-sun life at Santa Monica State Beach, a famous 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometre) stretch of sand and sea with a paved path for biking and running. Head to the iconic Santa Monica Pier to enjoy an open-air movie screening or twilight concert series, and take a spin on the solar-powered Ferris wheel at Pacific Park.

With over 300 days of sunshine per year and proximity to some of the best beaches in Southern California, the breathtaking sunsets and the refreshing ocean breeze of Santa Monica are the perfect recipe for study breaks.

But Santa Monica is more than just a beach lover’s paradise. Whether you’re hitting the books or hitting the beach, this diverse neighbourhood has something to offer everyone.

Culture & arts

A melting pot of cultures, Santa Monica is a unique and diverse community of people from all walks of life. This blend lends to a diverse range of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and charm.

It also lends to a thriving arts and culture scene that will leave you captivated. The city is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and theatres, showcasing everything from contemporary art to classic plays.

Explore the Bergamot Station Arts Centre, a creative hub that houses multiple galleries, or check out the stunning exhibitions at the Santa Monica Museum of Art. The Edgemar Centre for the Arts is also a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts.

Shopping

At the Third Street Promenade, you will find popular stores, charming cafes, and theatres in a vibrant, open-air shopping centre.

Santa Monica’s Main Street district also offers several boutique shops, in addition to many restaurants featuring stunning terraces and breathtaking beachside dining experiences.

Santa Monica has great food

Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, authentic Mexican street tacos, or vegan sushi, you’ll find it all in Santa Monica.

The city is a foodie’s paradise with diverse flavours and culinary delights around every corner, from cafes to upscale fine dining establishments.

And Pico hosts some of the city’s finest eateries. Enjoy all the scrumptious Mexican classics at Gilbert’s El Indio, or head to Lunetta All Day for some modern American cuisine. Fresh Mediterranean dishes can be found at the family-owned Z Garden Mediterranean Cuisine, and a fusion of Thai, Indian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, Italian and American soups, sandwiches, and salads from The Upper West. For a wide array of creamy desserts head to Rocco’s Cheesecake.

The Farmers Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday, is a feast for the senses, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a chance to connect with the community. Indulge in delicious bites, savour exotic flavours, and let your taste buds embark on a gastronomic adventure.

Overall, Santa Monica’s location makes it a great place to live if you’re looking for a laid-back beach lifestyle with easy access to all the amenities of a big city.

Studying at Santa Monica College

A renowned institution that has been shaping the minds of students for decades, Santa Monica College (SMC) is one of the most prestigious community colleges in the United States of America.

The college’s commitment to academic rigour, student support services, and career development has earned it a well-deserved reputation. It has consistently been recognised for its excellence in education and outstanding achievements and contributions to higher education.

Academic programs

Whether you’re pursuing a degree, preparing to transfer to a four-year university, or seeking vocational training, the SMC offers an extensive range of academic programs designed to meet the diverse interests and goals of students from all around the world.

The college offers over 80 fields of study, including business, engineering, computer science, film production, psychology, and many more.

World-class facilities

SMC students have access to state-of-the-art facilities that enhance their learning and personal growth. The main campus features modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and specialised facilities tailored to different fields of study.

The library offers a vast collection of resources, both in print and online, ensuring students have access to the information they need to excel academically.

Prime location

The college’s unique location not only allows students to soak up the California sun, its proximity to major industries such as entertainment, technology, and business, also helps set SMC apart. This allows unparalleled opportunities for internships and networking.

Santa Monica College student life

With its laid-back atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and a thriving arts and culture scene, Santa Monica offers a unique college experience that is difficult to find anywhere else.

Whether you’re exploring this beachfront city’s beautiful beaches or getting involved in campus events, student life at Santa Monica College is an enriching and vibrant experience.

Social activities and entertainment

With engaging student activities, diverse social clubs and associations, on-campus events, and a plethora of entertainment options, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved in social activities, discover new passions, make new friends, and become an active part of the SMC community.

The Associated Students (AS) organisation is at the forefront of organising a diverse range of events and activities throughout the year, from engaging workshops and cultural celebrations to music festivals and talent shows.

Whenever campus activities and entertainment grow old, SMC’s location in the heart of Santa Monica will give you access to endless opportunities for fun and relaxation outside the campus.

The lively attractions of the world-famous Santa Monica Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and the Third Street Promenade are just a stone’s throw away.

Whether it’s strolling along the beautiful beaches, enjoying the lively attractions of the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, or exploring the vibrant Third Street Promenade with its eclectic shops and entertainment venues, there’s always something exciting happening just moments away from campus.

Student services and support

With a student body representing over 100 countries, the SMC prides itself on its diverse and inclusive community, fostering a supportive environment that encourages cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Student success is at the forefront of its objectives, and the college remains committed to empowering students to achieve their goals. SMC provides comprehensive services and support to ensure students thrive both academically and personally.

The Student Services Centre serves as a hub for various support services, including academic counselling, financial aid assistance, and enrolment guidance.

The International Education Centre (IEC) plays a crucial role in supporting international students throughout their journey at the SMC offering guidance on immigration regulations, cultural adjustment, and academic success, as well as organising cultural activities and workshops to foster a supportive community.

History of the Santa Monica College

From its humble beginnings to its status as a leading community college, Santa Monica College’s history is marked by remarkable milestones and transformative moments. Here’s a timeline of the college’s history:

1929: Santa Monica College traces its roots back to 1929 when it was established as Santa Monica Junior College. It began as a small educational institution serving the local community, offering courses in various disciplines.

1945: Santa Monica Junior College underwent a significant transition and officially became Santa Monica City College. This change reflected the growth and expanded scope of the institution.

1960s: Marked a period of significant growth for the SMC. The college experienced a surge in student enrolment, leading to the expansion of facilities and the introduction of new academic programs.

1970: The word “City” was dropped and the school got its current name, Santa Monica College.

1970s: SMC responded to the changing educational landscape by expanding its vocational education offerings by introducing a range of career-focused programs and providing students with practical skills and training for the workforce.

1990s: The college’s efforts in sustainability earned it recognition and accolades from various organisations after implementing numerous initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, promote recycling, and create a greener campus environment.

Frequently asked questions about student apartments near Santa Monica College

How does applying for an off-campus apartment near Santa Monica College work?

Applying for an off-campus apartment near Santa Monica College on Student.com is easy. Use our website’s filters to search for your ideal apartment by price, type of property, or location.

When you’ve found a property you like, click ‘View rooms’ to go to the property page. On the property page you’ll need to choose the specific room you want, and then click ‘Enquire’ or ‘Book Now.’

You’ll then be asked to leave your contact details and one of our booking consultants will contact you shortly to answer any questions you may have and to help you complete the booking process once you’re ready to book.

What are the different rooms for rent you offer?

We currently offer three different types of rooms in the Los Angeles area:

1. Shared Rooms: These accommodate multiple people in one bedroom. Bathrooms and kitchenettes are shared with other tenants as well.

2. Private Rooms: Accommodate one individual in a private bedroom. Depending on the property and the exact room you choose, the bathroom can be either shared or private. Other facilities are shared.

3. Entire Place: Here you get to relax in the privacy of a fully self-contained apartment unit where your living space, cooking, and bathing facilities are all just for you.

Are bills included in the rent?

Most of the properties we list in the Los Angeles area have all bills included in the rent. This is not always the case though, so make sure to check on the property page if the property you’re interested in renting has bills included or not.

You can also use the filters on this page to only see properties with bills included.

Are the apartments fully furnished?

About 80% of the properties we list in Los Angeles are rented furnished. You can use the filters on this page to only see furnished properties. You can also see on the property page of each property whether it is rented furnished or unfurnished.