CCC was established under the direction of the Astoria Board of Education in 1958 and constitutes Oregon's first community college.
The campus includes the Royal Nebeker Art Center Gallery that hosts approximately six exhibits annually.
In addition, the college operates a second campus with maritime, fire and technical programs (MERTS), as well as an Industrial & Manufacturing Technology Center (IMTC).
As part of its maritime science program, CCC maintains and operates the training vessel Forerunner.
Small business and economic development services, along with ESL, GED, and vocational classes, are conducted at the South County Center in Seaside.