The Applied College at Bisha University was established under the name Community College, following the gracious approval of the high authority and the issuance of the ministerial decision No. 73, dated 5/3/1422 AH. It started its operations in the middle of the academic year 1424/1425 AH. At the university level, the name of the Community Colleges was changed to Applied Colleges based on the decision of the University Affairs Council No. (9/4/1442 AH) dated 14/9/1442 AH. As an educational institution focused on vocational and technical training and qualification, the Applied College offers numerous specialized applied programs that meet labor market requirements and keep pace with its rapidly evolving needs. The study duration ranges from one to two and a half years, at the intermediate level between high school and university. The college's programs are comprehensive and flexible, tailored to the needs of the community, the labor market, and development plans for qualified and distinguished human resources. Most of the programs culminate in certificates below the bachelor's degree, known as diplomas and associate diplomas, equivalent in Saudi Arabia to the "Intermediate College Diplomas" (Associate Degree), according to the National Qualifications Framework and the Unified Saudi Classification of Academic Specializations.
The Applied Colleges serve as a secure exit point for struggling bachelor's students and as a bridge for distinguished students wishing to continue their higher education. To fulfill its mission, the Applied College has formulated a set of strategic objectives aimed at providing valuable applied programs for all community members of different categories, ages, backgrounds, and nationalities. It seeks to develop and introduce applied programs that meet the rapidly evolving needs of the labor market, deepen engagement with the external community, activate the university's role in social responsibility, and enhance partnerships with both the public and private sectors. The college also aims to graduate competitively qualified students equipped with advanced knowledge and distinguished applied skills, while supporting and enhancing the college's financial and material resources and diversifying income sources.
Therefore, the Applied College at Bisha University strives to offer comprehensive and diverse programs, preparing its outstanding graduates to transition to university education, particularly adult education, and ensuring continuous education through providing remedial and corrective programs. It offers special programs at the initial levels, including qualification for practicing a specific profession, and implements an open-door policy that provides opportunities for anyone willing to study. Additionally, the college serves the local community by offering various specializations required by the labor market, addressing its needs, problems, and interests, and directing its programs accordingly. The Applied College targets all community members regardless of age, intelligence level, success rates, gender, social or economic background, with no barriers to admission. It offers numerous applied programs in fields such as administration, information systems, medical records, engineering, construction, travel, tourism, and more. These programs not only provide graduates with knowledge but also enhance their specialized and applied skills, enabling them to enter the labor market competitively in various fields, keep up with technical and technological advancements, and contribute effectively to the enrichment of the research ecosystem and community service in a distinguished manner.