American Samoa Community College (ASCC) is a vital educational institution located in the heart of American Samoa. Established in 1970, ASCC serves as the only community college in the region, providing accessible and affordable education to a diverse population. The college is committed to fostering academic excellence and cultural enrichment through its various programs and community services. ASCC offers a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs across multiple disciplines, including liberal arts, business, education, and health sciences. This diversity in academic offerings ensures that students can find pathways that align with their career aspirations and personal interests.

The campus environment at ASCC is characterized by a strong sense of community and cultural pride. Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and student organizations that promote leadership and teamwork. The college's mission is deeply rooted in the principles of respect, accountability, and integrity, guiding students in their academic and personal endeavors. The faculty at ASCC are dedicated and experienced professionals who provide personalized support and mentorship, helping students navigate their educational journeys. With a focus on community engagement and workforce development, ASCC plays a crucial role in empowering students and contributing to the socio-economic advancement of American Samoa.

Trends in Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates

The data from American Samoa Community College reveals significant trends regarding tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over recent years. Notably, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a substantial increase from $3,550 in 2014 to $5,460 in 2023, representing a 54% rise. Similarly, out-of-state tuition has increased from $3,850 to $5,760, reflecting a 49% increase. This sharp escalation in costs may impact accessibility for potential students and could explain the declining enrollment figures, which decreased from 1,795 in 2013 to 1,051 in 2023.

In terms of gender ratios, the proportion of female undergraduate students has consistently been higher than that of males, peaking at approximately 72% in 2023. This shift indicates a growing trend of female enrollment which is worth noting, especially in the context of broader societal changes regarding gender in education.

Furthermore, the graduation rates present a mixed picture. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates has fluctuated, showing a significant drop to 0% in 2023, while the extended graduation rate reached 100%. This raises concerns about the immediate job readiness of graduates and may reflect challenges faced by students during their studies.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, but the variations in student enrollment could affect the quality of education and support available. Overall, the rising tuition, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation rates suggest that American Samoa Community College faces critical challenges that could affect its future viability and the educational opportunities it provides to the community.

Analysis of Graduation Data from American Samoa Community College

The graduation data from American Samoa Community College reveals some noteworthy trends regarding the fields of study and the representation of international students among graduates. A significant number of graduates in associate degrees reflects the college's commitment to providing accessible education, particularly in areas like Elementary Education and Teaching, which produced 12 graduates, and Criminal Justice, with 25 graduates.

Interestingly, the data shows that while certain programs have a strong local graduate presence, international students play a vital role, especially in Nursing Education, where 3 out of 5 graduates were from abroad, indicating a growing attraction for international students in health-related fields. This aligns with global trends where healthcare professions are increasingly sought after by international students due to the high demand for health services worldwide.

Moreover, the absence of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees in most disciplines raises questions about the availability of advanced programs in this institution. The sole bachelor degree awarded in Elementary Education suggests a limited academic pathway for students aiming for higher education levels. The data for other fields such as business and health sciences, which are crucial for regional development, also shows a lack of graduates, highlighting potential areas for program expansion.

In conclusion, while the college excels in providing foundational education, there is a pressing need to diversify and enhance higher degree offerings to meet both local and international educational demands. This could attract more students and better prepare them for the evolving job market in the Pacific region.

Analysis of Student Demographics at American Samoa Community College in 2023

The student demographics at American Samoa Community College in 2023 reveal significant insights into the composition of the student body. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 309 students, with a notable gender imbalance where 29.4% are male and 70.6% are female. This trend is mirrored in the undergraduate continuing students, who total 644, with 29.3% male and 70.7% female. The statistics suggest that female students represent a substantial majority in both categories, indicating a potential area for further exploration regarding gender dynamics in higher education.

The undergraduate transfer students, although a small group at 13, also reflect a similar gender disparity, with only 23.1% male and a significant 76.9% female representation. This consistent pattern across different student classifications might point to broader societal trends influencing enrollment patterns, including factors such as career aspirations, academic interests, and support systems for female students in the region.

Furthermore, the data on other demographics is limited, particularly concerning racial and ethnic backgrounds, as details for the white, Asian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, Black, and international student populations are not fully available for this year. It would be beneficial for the college to gather and publish this information to provide a more comprehensive understanding of its diverse student body.

Overall, the overwhelming presence of female students in the community college suggests a need for targeted initiatives that support and empower male students, as well as continuing to promote an inclusive environment for all genders and backgrounds. The trends observed warrant a closer look at the factors influencing student choices and the college's strategic efforts to foster diversity and equity within its programs.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at American Samoa Community College

The age distribution of students at American Samoa Community College presents a clear picture of the demographic landscape within the institution. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-19 age range, accounting for approximately 37.4% of the total student body. This trend aligns with national statistics, where community colleges often attract younger students, particularly those transitioning directly from high school.

The data shows a significant drop in enrollment for students aged 20-21, who represent about 13.8% of the total, followed by a gradual decline in the older age brackets. For instance, students aged 22-24 make up around 5.6%, while those in the 25-29 range constitute just 1.8%. Such a pattern may reflect the challenges faced by older students, such as work commitments or family obligations that prevent them from pursuing higher education at a community college.

Interestingly, the absence of graduate male and female students indicates that American Samoa Community College primarily serves as an undergraduate institution. The representation of female students is notably higher across all age categories, suggesting a trend towards increased female participation in higher education, which is consistent with broader educational trends in the U.S.

In conclusion, the age composition at American Samoa Community College highlights the institution's role in catering primarily to younger students, particularly those who are new to higher education. Understanding these demographics is essential for developing targeted educational programs and support services that can foster student success across varying age groups.

Analysis of International Student Trends at American Samoa Community College

The data on international students at American Samoa Community College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both the total number of undergraduate students and the representation of international students. Notably, from 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students among undergraduates shows a declining trend, with the highest at 11.65% in 2004 and dropping to 8.21% in 2020. This decline is concerning, as it may reflect broader challenges in attracting international students, possibly influenced by factors such as visa regulations, geopolitical issues, or competition from other institutions.

Interestingly, there is a slight resurgence in the percentage of international students in the years 2022 and 2023, with rates of 11.38% and 11.04% respectively. This could indicate a recovery in international enrollment post-pandemic, as educational institutions worldwide are beginning to adapt to new norms and actively recruit students again.

The total number of undergraduate students has also seen considerable variation, peaking at 2,189 in 2010 before declining to 1,035 by 2020. This decline in total enrollment might correlate with the reduced international student population, highlighting the interconnected nature of these statistics.

While there is a lack of graduate student data, the trends observed in undergraduate enrollment can serve as a crucial indicator of the institution's overall attractiveness to international students. As global education markets evolve, American Samoa Community College may need to reassess its strategies to enhance its appeal to prospective international students.

Here are some notable schools near American Samoa Community College:

1. University of Hawaii at Manoa - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in a beautiful island setting.

2. University of California-Santa Barbara - With a ranking of 35, UCSB is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life, located near the stunning California coastline.

3. Stanford University - This prestigious institution ranks 3rd in the nation and is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and innovative research.

4. University of California-Berkeley - Ranked 15th, UC Berkeley is a leading public research university recognized for its outstanding faculty and diverse academic offerings.

5. University of Southern California - With a rank of 28, USC is known for its strong programs in film, business, and the arts, along with a vibrant student community.

These schools provide a range of academic opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Analysis of Crime Statistics at American Samoa Community College

The crime statistics at American Samoa Community College (ASCC) over the past decade present a mixed picture regarding campus safety. In 2013, the institution recorded a notably high crime rate of 9.25 incidents per 1,000 students, primarily driven by gun-related arrests. This figure sharply decreased in subsequent years, with the lowest crime rates observed in 2018, when no incidents were reported.

However, there were fluctuations in the crime figures, with a slight uptick in 2020, where the crime rate rose to 9.66 per 1,000 students. This year coincided with the global pandemic, which may have influenced the social dynamics affecting crime rates. The data indicates a general downward trend in crime rates in the following years, stabilizing around 1.85 to 2.31 incidents per 1,000 students from 2021 to 2023.

The types of offenses reported, particularly gun-related arrests, domestic violence, and drug-related incidents, highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and preventive measures on campus. It is reassuring to see a significant reduction in these offenses over the years, pointing to effective safety protocols and community engagement initiatives.

Overall, while ASCC has made strides in improving campus safety, the fluctuations in crime rates underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive strategies to maintain a safe learning environment for students. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.