College of San Mateo Coastside — Half Moon Bay

College of San Mateo sits at 1700 W. Hillsdale Boulevard on a hillside west of downtown San Mateo. Founded in 1922, the college brings classrooms, laboratories, the library and student services together on a large campus. Visitors should check the map before arriving to locate admissions or the office for a particular program.

Its catalog combines transfer courses, associate degrees and career certificates. Areas include nursing and health, biotechnology, aviation, cosmetology, business, science, technology and the arts. An associate degree commonly requires about 60 units and may take around two years full time; prerequisites, selective admission and course availability can extend that schedule.

New students apply through the district portal, then follow college-specific steps such as orientation, placement, counseling and registration. CSM provides academic planning, while health and other selective programs set additional entry requirements. Applicants with prior college work should request a transcript review early.

For 2026–27, the district lists $46 per unit as the base enrollment charge. A three-unit class starts at $138 before other fees, books and program expenses. Free College may waive the per-unit amount for county residents seeking a degree or certificate; additional help with materials, transit or technology has separate criteria. FAFSA, CADAA, Pell and College Promise Grant applications follow their own rules.

CSM offers credit ESL placement and English courses. The college directs beginning learners to Cañada College or San Mateo Adult School for entry options. Its library and academic support services provide places to build reading, writing and study skills alongside coursework.

The campus map locates the gymnasium, pool, stadium, planetarium, library, health and wellness services, child development center and parking areas. CSM reports a free weekday shuttle connecting Millbrae BART and Hillsdale Caltrain, plus SamTrans passes for eligible students. Construction can affect access, so check current maps and transit information.

Start with admission steps, current fees and transportation options. Counseling can confirm where a program meets and help build a course plan.