Since 1961, the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District has enhanced the quality of East County life by providing a top-notch, affordable education. The 1,138-square-mile district includes two colleges, Grossmont College and Cuyamaca College. This institution continues to grow as more people come to East County, offering convenient online classes, degree, and certificate programs. The District serves about 25,000 students each year. Grossmont College first convened classes in 1961 and has about 13,000 students every semester. Cuyamaca College was built in 1978 and has around 8,000 students. The colleges lead the way in developing educational programs, classes, and services that meet the needs of the community of East County's student population.