About Patrick & Henry Community College
Patrick & Henry Community College is a two-year, public institution located in Martinsville, Virginia, and serves Martinsville, Henry County, Patrick County, and the southern portion of Franklin County. Patrick & Henry was founded in 1962 as a two-year branch of the University of Virginia’s School of General Studies, and became an autonomous two-year college of the university two years later. The college enrolled its first students in the old Northside Elementary School in Martinsville and moved to its present campus in the fall of 1969 with the completion of the administration building.
The College’s core values are:
- Teaching and Learning
- Integrity and Respect
- Communication and Collaboration
Students can complete a variety of programs leading to associate degrees or certificates. In addition to traditional classes, Patrick & Henry Community College offers online, evening, and weekend classes for those with a busy schedule.
Accreditation & Licensing
Patrick & Henry Community College is accredited by:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Patrick Henry Community College works best as a practical first step, not a long detour. The path is built for dual-enrollment students, transfer-focused students, and learners moving into trade or certification routes. That makes time to finish feel direct: complete core work here, then move into the next stage with a clear plan.
Cost is a major advantage. PHCC is a small, low priced community college and often framed as great for the price, especially for dual-enrolled high school students. The SEED grant is a concrete affordability lever, with associate study described as fully free for qualifying local graduates. Combined with transfer planning, PHCC gives a low-cost route to keep progress moving.
At PHCC, support feels personal and hands-on. Professors are often easy to reach outside class, which helps when work gets hard. Students also get early guidance from teachers and admissions staff as they choose classes and set a clear path.
In many courses, instructors give detailed feedback, explain lessons in plain terms, and keep communication open. Class quality can vary, and some classes run better than others. Even so, the overall experience is supportive, especially with highly engaged faculty.
Online classes at PHCC fit learners who want interaction. Instructors give in-depth, detailed feedback. Lessons often use real world examples. That keeps classwork practical and easier to apply.
Class size can support direct contact with instructors. Some classes run around 30–35 students. Open discussion is part of the learning style. That structure helps students keep pace and stay connected in online coursework.
Classes at Patrick Henry Community College feel personal and active. Professors know their subjects and welcome student questions. Class talks focus on the lesson, not only test prep. Students get detailed feedback, not just quick grades.
With many classes around 30 to 35 students, it is easier to get direct help. Teaching stays tied to what comes next. Coursework and advising support transfer plans, skilled-trade careers, and certifications. The pace is practical and keeps students moving forward.
Faculty support helps many students build confidence as they progress. While class quality can differ by course, the overall experience is hands-on and supportive when help is needed.
Patrick Henry Community College is a smart place to start. Cost is a big strength. Tuition is low, and many students get strong value for the price. For qualifying local graduates, SEED grant aid can make school fully free.
Classes are a key reason students choose PHCC. Many professors know their subjects well and are easy to talk to. They often help outside class. Teaching includes class discussion and clear feedback.
Class sizes of about 30 to 35 help students get direct support. PHCC also helps students move forward. The school supports transfer plans and job-focused paths. Course quality can vary by instructor, but the college offers a practical, affordable path to a degree or career.
Patrick Henry Community College is a smart place to start. Cost is a big strength. Tuition is low, and many students get strong value for the price. For qualifying local graduates, SEED grant aid can make school fully free.
Classes are a key reason students choose PHCC. Many professors know their subjects well and are easy to talk to. They often help outside class. Teaching includes class discussion and clear feedback.
Class sizes of about 30 to 35 help students get direct support. PHCC also helps students move forward. The school supports transfer plans and job-focused paths. Course quality can vary by instructor, but the college offers a practical, affordable path to a degree or career.
Geographic and Educational Overview
Patrick & Henry Community College is located in Virginia
Virginia at a Glance:

Top Majors in Virginia:
Top Incentives in Virginia:
- Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant: Up to $4,000 annually
Top Career Pathways in Virginia:
- Entry Level: Security Analyst ($80,000)
- Mid Level: Security Engineer ($120,000)
- Senior Level: Security Director ($175,000+)
- Required Education: BS Cybersecurity
- Certifications: Security+, CISSP

