Illinois Central College (ICC) is a prominent community college located in East Peoria, Illinois. Established in 1967, ICC serves a diverse student body and is known for its commitment to providing quality education and support to its students. The college offers a wide range of programs, including academic transfer degrees, vocational training, and continuing education, catering to the educational needs of both traditional and non-traditional students. One of the distinguishing features of ICC is its strong focus on community engagement, fostering partnerships with local businesses and organizations to ensure that students gain practical experience and skills relevant to the job market.

The college prides itself on a vibrant campus culture that encourages student involvement and personal growth. With various student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities, ICC provides an enriching environment for students to develop leadership skills and build lasting connections. The college’s motto, "Your Future, Your College," reflects its dedication to empowering students to achieve their academic and career goals. Additionally, ICC boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and recreational areas, enhancing the overall learning experience. With a solid reputation for academic excellence and a focus on student success, Illinois Central College continues to be a vital educational institution in the region, preparing students for a prosperous future.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Illinois Central College

Illinois Central College has experienced notable changes in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased from $7,650 to $9,348, while out-of-state students faced an increase from $8,550 to $11,654. This upward trend in tuition indicates a growing financial burden on students, which may contribute to declining enrollment figures.

The total number of undergraduate students has seen a significant decrease, dropping from 11,125 in 2013 to just 7,044 in 2023. This decline of approximately 37% raises concerns regarding the college's attractiveness and accessibility to potential students, possibly influenced by rising tuition fees and the economic climate.

Graduation rates also reveal a mixed picture. Although the on-time graduation rate showed some improvement, peaking at 20.8% in 2021, it fell to 17.8% by 2023. The 150% graduation rate also fluctuated, indicating challenges in student retention and successful completion of programs.

Moreover, the student-to-faculty ratio has improved, decreasing from 19:1 in 2013 to 15:1 in 2023. This enhancement could potentially lead to a better educational experience for students, as smaller class sizes often facilitate more personalized attention from instructors.

Overall, while some metrics like student-faculty ratio show positive trends, the rising tuition and declining enrollment numbers present significant challenges for Illinois Central College. These trends necessitate strategic adjustments to enhance student engagement and improve overall graduation outcomes.

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Illinois Central College

The data from Illinois Central College (ICC) for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends in graduation numbers across various programs. A significant observation is the predominance of associate degrees, particularly in fields such as Registered Nursing, which saw 71 graduates, and in Liberal Arts and Sciences, which produced a staggering 490 graduates. This trend aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals and the foundational education that liberal arts provide, indicating a robust interest in both practical and versatile career pathways.

Additionally, the presence of international students earning degrees is noteworthy, albeit limited. For example, the culinary arts program had one international graduate, reflecting the diverse student body ICC attracts. However, many technical and healthcare programs reported no international graduates, suggesting potential barriers for international students in these fields or a lack of outreach.

The engineering and technology disciplines show a mixed performance, with some programs like Mechanical Engineering reporting very few graduates, which may raise concerns about the future workforce in these critical areas. In contrast, programs related to health sciences consistently produced graduates, underscoring the sector's resilience and importance, especially in the wake of the ongoing global health challenges.

Overall, this data not only highlights the strengths of ICC in producing graduates in essential fields but also points to areas of improvement, particularly in attracting and retaining international students and enhancing the appeal of engineering and technical programs. As the job market evolves, ICC's ability to adapt its offerings will be crucial in meeting future workforce demands.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Illinois Central College in 2023

In 2023, Illinois Central College showcases a diverse student population across various categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 1,312, with a nearly balanced gender distribution (48.9% male and 51.1% female). This indicates a welcoming environment for all students, which is crucial for fostering inclusivity and participation in campus activities.

The undergraduate seniors represent a significant portion of the student body, with 3,218 enrolled. However, this group displays a more pronounced gender imbalance, with only 36.4% being male and a substantial 63.6% female. This trend could reflect broader societal patterns where women are increasingly pursuing higher education in greater numbers than men. Such demographic shifts are noteworthy, as they may influence campus culture, academic programs, and support services tailored for female students.

The undergraduate transfer student segment is relatively small, with just 100 individuals. This group also exhibits a higher female representation at 57%, suggesting that transfer students may be similarly inclined towards female demographics in higher education. Meanwhile, the total number of non-degree seeking students stands at 2,414, with a notable gender ratio of 38.6% male to 61.4% female.

The data also highlights the diverse racial composition within these groups, most notably among the freshmen and non-degree seeking students. This suggests that Illinois Central College is attracting a wide array of backgrounds, which is essential for enriching the educational experience.

Overall, the statistics reflect a college environment that is evolving to be more inclusive, with a strong focus on gender balance and diversity among its student population. Maintaining this trajectory will be vital for the institution's future, especially in addressing the needs and interests of all students.

Demographic Insights of Illinois Central College Students

The age composition of students at Illinois Central College reveals some intriguing trends. A substantial portion of the student body is comprised of individuals under the age of 18 and those aged 18-19, accounting for nearly 50% of the total student population. This suggests that the college is attracting a significant number of recent high school graduates, likely due to the availability of affordable education and community college programs that serve as a stepping stone to higher education.

Interestingly, the number of students aged 20-21 begins to decline sharply, with only 445 males and 570 females enrolled, indicating a potential shift in enrollment patterns as students progress in their academic journeys. This trend continues as age groups increase, with the 22-24 age bracket consisting of 257 males and 388 females, and the numbers tapering off significantly for older age groups. For instance, only 16 males and 17 females are over the age of 65, reflecting a traditional student demographic that skews younger.

Moreover, the data indicates that female students consistently outnumber male students across all age categories, particularly among those under 18 and in the 18-19 age range. This aligns with national trends in higher education where female enrollment has outpaced male enrollment in recent years.

Overall, these demographic insights highlight the youthful nature of the student population at Illinois Central College and suggest a growing need for programs tailored to the unique needs of younger students, while also considering the decreasing enrollment among older students.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Illinois Central College

The data on international student enrollment at Illinois Central College reveals a fluctuating trend over the years, particularly in the undergraduate category. Starting with a relatively high number of international students in 2004, the figures dipped sharply in subsequent years, reaching an alarming low of just one student in 2014 and 2016. This decline could reflect broader trends in U.S. immigration policies and changing perceptions of the United States as a destination for higher education.

However, from 2017 onwards, there has been a notable resurgence in the number of international students. By 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates surged to 2.26%, the highest recorded in the dataset. This resurgence may indicate a recovery from the previous years and a renewed interest in U.S. education, possibly influenced by the global pandemic's impact on international travel and education.

The gradual increase in enrollment figures aligns with national trends, where U.S. institutions have seen a rebound in international student applications, attributed to the easing of travel restrictions and a desire for diverse educational experiences. Yet, it is essential to consider that the total undergraduate population has also been on a downward trend, which may affect the overall dynamics of international student representation.

This data serves as a reminder of the fluctuating nature of international student enrollment and the numerous factors, including political, economic, and social, that play a role in shaping these trends in higher education.

Here are some notable schools surrounding Illinois Central College:

1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Ranked 35 in the 2024 US News rankings, this is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings.

2. Bradley University - With a rank of 185, Bradley University is a comprehensive institution that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing experiential learning and community engagement.

3. Illinois State University - This university ranks 209 and is well-regarded for its teacher education programs. It provides a supportive learning environment and a variety of academic options.

4. Knox College - A liberal arts college ranked 75, Knox College is known for its commitment to a rigorous academic experience and vibrant campus life, fostering critical thinking and personal growth.

5. Augustana College - With a rank of 100, Augustana College offers a rich liberal arts education with a focus on experiential learning and community service.

6. University of Chicago - One of the top-ranked universities in the nation at 12, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics, distinguished faculty, and influential research initiatives.

7. Northwestern University - Ranked 9, Northwestern University is an elite comprehensive university known for its strong programs in various fields including journalism, law, and business.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in the region, offering a variety of programs and opportunities for students.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Illinois Central College

The data from Illinois Central College reveals a fluctuating trend in crime rates over the years 2013 to 2023. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students shows a notable increase from 1.33 in 2013 to a peak of 2.98 in 2018, indicating a concerning rise in criminal activity. However, this upward trend seems to have stabilized and even declined in the subsequent years, particularly in 2021 and 2023, where the average rates were 1.15 and 1.31 respectively.

Particularly alarming are the statistics related to specific offenses. The data reflects a consistent presence of gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents, which are common issues on many college campuses across the United States. Such incidents not only impact the safety and well-being of students but also affect the campus atmosphere and the institution's reputation.

Nationally, colleges are increasingly focused on enhancing campus safety measures, including better reporting practices and preventative programs aimed at reducing substance abuse and violence. The decrease in crime rates in recent years at Illinois Central College may suggest that these efforts are beginning to take effect.

However, the data also indicates that issues like domestic violence and stalking remain prevalent, warranting continued attention and resources to address these serious concerns. As the college community moves forward, it will be crucial to maintain transparent communication about safety and support services to foster a secure environment for all students.

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