Lord Fairfax Community College
Abbreviation/Alias: Lord Fairfax Community College
School Characteristics: Public (2-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
School Chief: Kimberly Blosser (President)
Website: https://www.laurelridge.edu/; Phone: 8009065322
Location: 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA, 22645
Lord Fairfax Community College Important Facts
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The data from Laurel Ridge Community College reveals notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has gradually increased from $4,005 in 2014 to $4,928 in 2024, reflecting a consistent rise in educational costs that may impact enrollment decisions for prospective students. For out-of-state students, tuition has similarly climbed from $9,843 to $10,931, emphasizing the financial burden for non-resident learners. This increase in tuition could be partly attributed to broader economic factors affecting higher education funding.
In terms of graduation rates, there has been a significant improvement over the years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students rose from approximately 13% in 2013 to about 29% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate increased from about 26% to nearly 45% in the same period. This upward trend in graduation rates suggests that the college has implemented effective strategies to enhance student success and completion, which is crucial for both institutional reputation and student outcomes.
Retention rates also present a mixed picture. After peaking at around 70% in 2014, retention dipped to about 58% in 2021 before recovering slightly to approximately 65% in 2023. This fluctuation indicates challenges the institution has faced in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, especially during the pandemic years. However, the recent uptick may suggest that the college is making progress in addressing these issues, potentially through improved support services.
Overall, while the rising tuition costs pose a challenge, the improvements in graduation rates and the recent stabilization of retention rates indicate that Laurel Ridge Community College is striving to provide a supportive educational environment for its students.
Lord Fairfax Community College Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Laurel Ridge Community College
The graduation data from Laurel Ridge Community College for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends, particularly in the realm of associate degrees. Overall, the college appears to have produced a diverse array of graduates across various disciplines, although the numbers indicate a strong focus on certain fields.
Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program stands out with a significant number of graduates, totaling 431 individuals. This suggests a robust interest in foundational education, which could be reflective of broader trends in higher education where students seek versatile skills applicable across various job markets. In stark contrast, programs in technology and engineering, despite their importance in today's job market, show relatively low graduation numbers, with no graduates in bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate categories. This raises questions about student engagement and recruitment in these vital fields, particularly as the demand for skilled professionals in technology continues to rise.
Additionally, the health-related programs also show a moderate level of interest, with 77 graduates in registered nursing and smaller numbers in other health fields. This is particularly relevant in the context of ongoing healthcare challenges and the increasing emphasis on healthcare education in community colleges.
Interestingly, the data reflects a minimal presence of international students, especially at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, which could indicate a need for enhanced outreach and support for international enrollment. Overall, while certain programs like Liberal Arts are thriving, there appears to be an opportunity for Laurel Ridge Community College to bolster its STEM and healthcare initiatives to align with workforce demands and enhance its appeal to diverse student populations.
Lord Fairfax Community College Students Diversity
Analysis of Student Demographics at Laurel Ridge Community College in 2023
The student demographics at Laurel Ridge Community College in 2023 present a diverse and interesting landscape. The total number of students across various categories includes undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate continuing students, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students. The data reveals that the institution has a significant representation of female students, with the percentages for undergraduate freshmen, continuing students, and transfer students being 61.9%, 67.1%, and 76.5% respectively. This trend indicates a growing inclination among females towards higher education, aligning with national trends where women's enrollment in colleges has been steadily increasing.
Moreover, the statistics show that the overall male representation across all categories is lower than that of females, with the highest male percentage found among undergraduate freshmen at 38.1%. This gender disparity in enrollment could reflect broader societal trends and perhaps a shift in academic interests that favor traditionally female-dominated fields.
The data on the racial and ethnic composition of the students also highlights a majority of white students, followed by other minority groups. The college's efforts in attracting a diverse student body may be an area of focus, as higher education institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of inclusivity in fostering a rich educational environment.
Overall, the demographic profile of Laurel Ridge Community College suggests a commitment to supporting a diverse student body while highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to balance gender representation and enhance diversity among racial and ethnic groups.
Lord Fairfax Community College Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Laurel Ridge Community College
The age composition of students at Laurel Ridge Community College presents an intriguing snapshot of the demographic trends within the institution. A significant proportion of the student population is under the age of 18, comprising approximately 42% of the total enrollment, including both male and female students. This is indicative of the college's role in providing early college experiences for younger learners, likely reflecting broader trends in dual enrollment programs across the country.
The 18-19 age bracket follows closely, accounting for about 26% of the total student body. This aligns with the traditional college-age demographic, suggesting that many students are entering higher education immediately after high school. However, as we progress into older age groups, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. For instance, students aged 25-29 represent only about 10% of the total, while those over 50 account for a mere 2%.
Interestingly, the absence of graduate male and female students highlights a potential area for growth, as the college currently serves only undergraduate populations. This could indicate a need for more advanced programs or incentives to attract graduate students.
Overall, these statistics reveal a youthful demographic heavily skewed towards younger students, emphasizing the importance of tailored support services and resources for this age group. As the educational landscape evolves, understanding these trends will be crucial for institutions to adapt and meet the needs of their diverse student populations effectively.
Lord Fairfax Community College International Students Trends
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Laurel Ridge Community College
The data from Laurel Ridge Community College reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students over the years, particularly at the undergraduate level. In 2004, the percentage of international students among undergraduates was a modest 0.22%. However, this figure has seen a remarkable increase, peaking at 1.29% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the college has become increasingly attractive to international students, possibly due to enhanced programs, support services, or a growing reputation.
The years 2011 to 2018 were particularly notable, with international student percentages frequently exceeding 0.5%. This period aligns with a broader trend in U.S. higher education where community colleges have been recognized as accessible pathways for international students seeking quality education at a lower cost. The data indicates a peak in 2018, with 0.67% of undergraduates being international students before experiencing fluctuations in subsequent years.
The recent surge in 2023, with 74 international students out of a total of 5720 undergraduates, suggests that the college may have implemented strategic initiatives to attract more students from abroad. This could coincide with the global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education.
Overall, the trends observed in this data reflect the evolving landscape of international education and the role community colleges play in attracting a diverse student body, which can enrich the campus experience and promote cultural exchange. As competition for international students continues to grow, it will be essential for institutions like Laurel Ridge to sustain and enhance their outreach efforts to maintain this positive trajectory.
Lord Fairfax Community College Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable universities near Laurel Ridge Community College:
James Madison University - Ranked 124th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a vibrant campus life.
George Mason University - With a rank of 105, this comprehensive university is recognized for its diverse academic programs and research opportunities, making it a prominent institution in Virginia.
American University - Also ranked 105th, American University offers a wide array of programs with a strong focus on international relations and public affairs.
Georgetown University - A prestigious institution ranked 22nd, Georgetown is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and a strong emphasis on social justice and public service.
University of Virginia-Main Campus - Ranked 24th, this historic university is known for its exceptional academic offerings and beautiful campus, attracting students from around the globe.
Johns Hopkins University - With a remarkable rank of 9, Johns Hopkins is famous for its research and healthcare programs, particularly in public health and medicine.
These institutions offer a range of programs and opportunities for students in the surrounding areas, contributing to a rich educational landscape.
Campus Safety
Analysis of Crime Data at Laurel Ridge Community College
The crime data for Laurel Ridge Community College indicates a generally positive trend in campus safety over the years. From 2013 to 2023, the institution reported very few incidents, with only a slight uptick in 2018 when two arrests were made related to gun possession and a single drug arrest in prior years. Notably, the overall crime rate, measured as incidents per 1,000 students, remains exceptionally low, peaking at only 0.29 in 2018, which translates to just 0.029% of the student population.
This low incidence of crime can be seen as a testament to the effectiveness of campus safety measures and community engagement at Laurel Ridge. The absence of significant criminal activity in recent years, particularly from 2020 to 2023, suggests that the college has successfully maintained a safe environment for its students and staff.
In the broader context of campus safety nationwide, many institutions face challenges related to drug and alcohol-related offenses. However, Laurel Ridge’s statistics show that it has avoided many of these issues, which is commendable. Maintaining open communication about safety measures and fostering a supportive community can further enhance these positive outcomes.
As we continue to observe crime trends in educational institutions, it remains essential to uphold preventive measures and promote awareness. The calculated crime rate offers valuable insights into campus safety, and maintaining transparency about such data can help in building trust within the community. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Reference
Lord Fairfax Community College Important Facts Trends
Lord Fairfax Community College degrees/majors
Lord Fairfax Community College major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $15,637-$28,017 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Biological and Physical Sciences. | $37,850 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | - | |
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | $36,165 | |
Surgical Technology/Technologist. | $36,165 | |
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | |
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $69,986 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | - | |
Accounting and Related Services, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Engineering, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General. | - | |
Industrial Technology/Technician. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
---|---|---|
Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - |
Lord Fairfax Community College Schools/Majors Ranking
Lord Fairfax Community College Varsity Athletes
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Laurel Ridge Community College, located in Virginia's picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, is an esteemed institution dedicated to providing quality education and fostering community engagement. The college prides itself on its inclusive environment, which encourages students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their academic goals. With a commitment to student success, Laurel Ridge offers a wide range of programs, from associate degrees to certificates, across various fields such as health sciences, business, and technology. The college's small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty, allowing students to thrive in their studies and develop essential skills for their future careers.
The campus features modern amenities and facilities that enhance the learning experience, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational areas. Students participate in various extracurricular activities, from academic clubs to sports, promoting a well-rounded college experience. The college also emphasizes community service, allowing students to engage with local initiatives and develop a sense of civic responsibility. With a strong focus on preparing students for the workforce, Laurel Ridge Community College has established valuable partnerships with local businesses and organizations, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the job market.