Hawaii Community College (HCC), located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a vibrant educational institution that offers a range of programs designed to meet the needs of its diverse student body. Established in 1970, HCC is known for its strong commitment to community engagement and cultural diversity. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and provides students with opportunities to participate in various programs that connect them to the local community. With a focus on sustainability and environmental awareness, HCC incorporates the stunning natural surroundings of Hawaii into its curriculum, promoting an understanding of ecological issues and cultural heritage.

The college features modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms and laboratories, as well as a dedicated library and student support services that enhance the learning experience. HCC offers a variety of degree and certificate programs across multiple fields, including healthcare, business, and the liberal arts, ensuring that students have access to high-quality education that can lead to successful careers. The institution is also known for its strong support services, which include academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, helping students navigate their educational journeys and prepare for employment after graduation. With a focus on fostering a supportive and inclusive campus culture, HCC provides a welcoming environment that encourages student engagement and personal growth.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Hawaii Community College

Hawaii Community College has demonstrated notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.

Firstly, student enrollment has seen a significant decline, dropping from 3,663 in 2013 to just 2,127 in 2023. This nearly 42% decrease raises concerns about the college's appeal and accessibility, especially in a time when higher education is increasingly vital for career advancement. This trend mirrors national patterns of declining community college enrollment, which may be influenced by various factors such as changing demographics, economic conditions, and the rising number of alternative education options available to students.

In terms of graduation rates, there has been a positive trajectory in recent years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from 5.3% in 2013 to 18.0% in 2023. This substantial improvement suggests that the institution has been effective in implementing strategies to support student success and completion. Enhanced academic advising and targeted support services may have contributed to this upward trend.

Retention rates, however, present a mixed picture. While there was a notable increase in retention from 55.0% in 2013 to a peak of 64.6% in 2020, the rate has since declined to 52.7% in 2023. This decline could indicate challenges in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, which are critical for keeping students enrolled and progressing toward their degrees.

Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has improved over the years, indicating a more favorable learning environment for students. The ratio decreased from 18:1 in 2013 to 12:1 in 2023. This reduction suggests that students may have more access to faculty, allowing for increased interaction and support, which can positively influence both retention and graduation rates.

Overall, while Hawaii Community College has made strides in graduation rates and faculty accessibility, the decline in enrollment and retention rates warrants further investigation and strategic intervention to ensure sustainable growth and student success.

Analysis of 2023 Graduation Data from Hawaii Community College

The graduation data from Hawaii Community College for 2023 reveals some significant trends and insights about the various programs offered. Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program stands out with a remarkable total of 145 graduates, indicating a strong interest in general education. This could reflect a broader national trend where students seek a well-rounded education to enhance their employability across various sectors.

In contrast, specific vocational programs like Fire Science and Registered Nursing also show a healthy number of graduates, with 18 and 30 respectively. These numbers underscore the demand for skilled professionals in critical areas, particularly in healthcare and safety, which aligns with ongoing workforce needs in the state and nationwide.

Interestingly, the data shows a modest representation of international students in some programs, particularly in Registered Nursing with one graduate, and American Indian Studies, which has six. This suggests that while international student enrollment is present, it is not widespread across all disciplines.

Moreover, the absence of graduates at the bachelor's, master's, and doctorate levels across all programs highlights a potential area for growth. It suggests that Hawaii Community College primarily serves as a stepping stone for associate degrees rather than advanced degrees, which could impact local workforce development and the availability of higher-skilled professionals in the region.

Overall, the data indicates a strong foundation in associate degree programs, particularly in liberal arts and vocational training, while also highlighting areas for potential expansion in international enrollment and advanced degree offerings.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Hawaii Community College in 2023

In 2023, Hawaii Community College presents a diverse student demographic that reflects broader trends in higher education. The institution enrolls a total of 2,027 students across various classifications, including new undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, and transfer students. Notably, the new undergraduate cohort consists of 378 students, of which 51.6% are male and 48.4% are female. This relatively balanced gender ratio highlights an encouraging trend towards gender equity in new admissions.

Continuing undergraduate students, numbering 901, display a more pronounced gender disparity, with only 40.7% male students compared to 59.3% female students. This imbalance may suggest shifting societal norms or preferences among students in selecting higher education paths. Additionally, the transfer student population of 177 shows a similar trend with 36.2% male and 63.8% female.

The overall representation of different ethnic groups within these demographics is significant, although specific data on ethnic breakdowns for continuing and transfer students remains unavailable. However, the new undergraduate group shows a modest but noteworthy presence of white students, which accounts for a minority in a diverse educational environment.

This demographic data aligns with national trends where community colleges are increasingly attracting a higher proportion of female students, particularly in certain fields of study. Such trends may also be influenced by the ongoing societal shifts towards inclusivity and diversity in academic settings. Moving forward, it will be essential for Hawaii Community College to continue fostering an inclusive environment that supports all students, irrespective of gender or ethnicity, to enhance their academic journey and future opportunities.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Hawaii Community College

The age demographic data from Hawaii Community College reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. A significant majority of students fall under the age of 24, with the largest group being those under 18 years old, comprising 40.2% of the total student population. This finding highlights the college's appeal to younger students, likely reflecting a trend seen across many community colleges nationwide, as they often attract recent high school graduates.

Among the age groups, students aged 18-19 represent a substantial portion as well, accounting for 34.8% of the total enrollment. However, as we progress into older age brackets, the numbers begin to dwindle significantly. For instance, only 6.4% of the student population is between the ages of 30 and 34, indicating that the college has less appeal for adult learners in this age range.

Interestingly, there is a notable absence of graduate students, with zero enrollments recorded in the graduate categories. This absence could suggest that Hawaii Community College primarily serves as a stepping stone for undergraduates rather than a destination for those pursuing advanced degrees.

Moreover, the gender distribution among students shows a consistent trend, where females outnumber males across all age categories. This could reflect broader educational trends, where female students often surpass their male counterparts in higher education enrollment.

Overall, the data indicates that Hawaii Community College is predominantly catering to younger, undergraduate students, with a significant gender disparity favoring female enrollment. This demographic profile is crucial for the college as it plans programs and services that cater to the needs of its student population.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Hawaii Community College

The data from Hawaii Community College reveals interesting trends concerning international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students fluctuated, peaking at 3,884 in 2011. However, the percentage of international students within the undergraduate population has remained relatively low, only reaching a maximum of 2.5% in 2007. This indicates that while the total enrollment has seen increases, the representation of international students has not significantly risen in proportion to the total undergraduate population.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in both the total number of undergraduates and the number of international students. For instance, in 2023, there were only 34 international students out of a total of 2,127 undergraduates, equating to approximately 1.6%. This downward trend is concerning, especially as many institutions are striving to enhance their global presence and attract diverse student populations.

This situation may reflect broader challenges faced by higher education institutions in the U.S., such as visa issues, international competition for students, and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel and enrollment. Additionally, Hawaii's geographical isolation may limit its appeal compared to mainland institutions that offer a wider array of resources and opportunities for international students.

To reverse this trend, Hawaii Community College may need to develop targeted recruitment strategies, enhance support services for international students, and promote the unique advantages of studying in Hawaii. As the global educational landscape continues to evolve, it is vital for the college to adapt and find innovative ways to attract and retain international talent.

Here are some notable universities surrounding Hawaii Community College:

1. University of Hawaii at Manoa - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this university is a comprehensive institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

2. Stanford University - A prestigious Ivy League institution, Stanford ranks 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings. Known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, it offers diverse programs across various fields.

3. University of California-Berkeley - Ranked 15th, UC Berkeley is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. It is a leading research university with a strong focus on public service.

4. University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is recognized for its comprehensive educational offerings and is one of the most popular universities in the United States.

5. University of California-Santa Cruz - With a rank of 82, UC Santa Cruz is known for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on environmental and social sciences.

6. University of Southern California - USC ranks 28th and is known for its strong programs in film, business, and the arts, providing a rich cultural experience.

These institutions provide excellent educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape of the region.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Hawaii Community College

The crime statistics from Hawaii Community College over the recent years reveal fluctuating trends in campus safety, particularly concerning arrests and infractions related to firearms, drugs, and alcohol. Notably, the year 2022 saw a significant spike with an average of 8.45 incidents per 1000 students, a stark contrast to previous years where the rates were considerably lower. The data indicates that while there were zero incidents in 2014, the rate climbed to 3.89 in 2016 and then dropped dramatically to just 0.38 in 2019.

The consistent rise in incidents leading up to 2022 can be alarming, as it reflects potential underlying issues within the campus environment. The increase in drug-related arrests and alcohol violations during this period may suggest a growing problem with substance abuse among students. This is particularly concerning given the national context where many educational institutions are grappling with similar issues, emphasizing the need for proactive measures in student health and safety.

It is also noteworthy that arrests related to firearms have been consistently low, with no major incidents reported on campus. This could indicate effective campus security measures against violent crimes, which is reassuring for students and faculty alike. However, the overall increase in crime rates necessitates a closer examination of campus policies and support systems to ensure a safe educational environment for all students.

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