Pratt Community College, located in Pratt, Kansas, is an esteemed institution known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. The college offers a diverse range of programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training, catering to various interests and career paths. With a focus on student success, Pratt Community College emphasizes personalized attention, ensuring that each student receives the guidance they need to thrive academically and personally. The college's motto, "Education is the key to success," reflects its dedication to empowering students through knowledge and skill development.

The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, promoting both academic and extracurricular engagement. The college is also recognized for its strong athletic programs, encouraging students to participate in sports, which fosters teamwork and physical fitness. Moreover, Pratt Community College values community involvement and often collaborates with local organizations to enhance the educational experience and provide students with real-world opportunities. Its vibrant campus culture, enriched by diverse student backgrounds and activities, creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages lifelong friendships and personal growth. Overall, Pratt Community College stands out as a beacon of opportunity, preparing students for successful futures in various fields.

Analysis of Key Trends at Pratt Community College

Pratt Community College has demonstrated a notable increase in tuition over the years, particularly for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, in-state tuition rose from $3,140 to $4,114, representing a 31% increase, while out-of-state tuition saw an even steeper rise from $3,432 to $4,612, a 34% increase. This trend reflects the broader national concern regarding rising college costs, which can impact accessibility for prospective students and may necessitate increased financial aid or student loans.

The student enrollment numbers present a concerning trend, as there has been a significant decline from 2014's peak of 1,541 to 1,202 in 2023, revealing a 22% decrease in undergraduate enrollment. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts, competition from online education, or economic factors affecting students' ability to afford higher education. The reduction in student numbers can strain the institution's resources and may impact its financial health.

Retention rates, however, tell a more positive story. The retention rate for undergraduates has increased from approximately 56% in 2013 to around 67% in 2023. This improvement indicates that once students enroll, they are more likely to continue their studies at Pratt Community College. This could be attributed to enhanced support services and academic resources aimed at improving student success.

Lastly, the graduation rates have shown fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate hovering between 25% to 38% in recent years. The 150% graduation rate has shown a slight upward trend, reaching approximately 41% in 2023. This suggests that while there may be challenges in timely graduation, students are ultimately completing their degrees, which is essential for their career prospects.

In summary, while Pratt Community College faces challenges in rising tuition and declining enrollment, it has made strides in retaining students and improving graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's long-term sustainability and its ability to serve future generations of students.

Analysis of Graduation Data from Pratt Community College in 2023

The graduation data from Pratt Community College reveals some insightful trends for the academic year 2023. Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program stands out with a substantial number of graduates, totaling 110. This figure highlights the program's popularity and its essential role in providing a broad-based education that prepares students for various career paths or further studies.

In contrast, specialized programs such as Farm/Farm and Ranch Management and Welding Technology have also seen some activity, with four graduates each. However, these numbers suggest that while these fields remain vital, they may not attract as many students as general education pathways. The lack of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate graduates across all programs indicates a potential area for growth in higher-level degrees at the college, which is crucial for meeting the increasing demand for skilled professionals in specialized sectors.

International student representation appears minimal, with no graduates reported at the bachelor's and master's levels. This could reflect broader trends in the post-pandemic educational landscape, where enrollment among international students has faced challenges due to changing immigration policies and global health issues.

Overall, while Pratt Community College continues to produce graduates in various fields, there is a noticeable emphasis on associate degrees, particularly in traditional disciplines like Liberal Arts. The college may benefit from developing strategies to enhance enrollment in bachelor's and master's programs and increase international student participation to boost its academic diversity and adaptability in the current educational climate.

Student Demographics at Pratt Community College in 2023

In 2023, Pratt Community College showcased a diverse student body, with notable distinctions in gender representation among various categories of students. The incoming freshmen comprised 287 students, with a significant male majority of 68.3%, while female representation stood at 31.7%. This pattern of male dominance is also reflected in the continuing undergraduate cohort, where 66.7% of the 240 students are male, leaving 33.3% female.

Interestingly, the transfer student demographic appears to have a slightly lower male ratio at 64.9% compared to females at 35.1%, indicating a trend where male students are more prevalent among newcomers and continuing undergraduates. However, the overall picture changes dramatically with the non-degree seeking students, who total 598. Here, the balance shifts significantly, with only 39.6% male students and 60.4% female students, suggesting that this group has a higher proportion of female participants.

Delving into the ethnic breakdown of the student population, it is evident that white students hold the largest proportion in each category, which is a common trend in many community colleges across the United States. This demographic composition highlights ongoing discussions regarding diversity and inclusion in higher education, particularly in light of recent societal movements advocating for equitable representation.

Overall, Pratt Community College's student demographics reflect broader national trends, while also presenting unique characteristics that warrant further exploration and understanding as educational institutions continue to evolve in their approach to student diversity.

Analysis of Age Composition at Pratt Community College in 2023

The age composition data from Pratt Community College in 2023 reveals interesting insights about the student demographics. The majority of students fall within the younger age brackets, particularly those under 19 years old, which accounts for approximately 46.6% of total male students and 56.7% of total female students. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that community colleges often attract younger students who are fresh out of high school.

As students progress into their twenties, the numbers begin to decline significantly. For those aged 20-21, the male student population drops to about 16.5%, while female students in the same age group constitute only 10.4%. This decline may suggest a potential trend of young adults either entering the workforce earlier or choosing alternative paths rather than pursuing immediate higher education.

Interestingly, the data shows a notable increase in female students in the older age brackets. For instance, in the 25-29 age group, there are two female students for every male student. This ratio continues to favor females in the older categories, highlighting a critical aspect of community college demographics where mature students, particularly women, are seeking further education to enhance their career prospects.

The absence of graduate students also raises questions about the educational pathways chosen by students at this institution. Overall, the data underscores the need for community colleges to tailor their programs to cater to a diverse age range, addressing the unique challenges and aspirations of both younger and older students.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Pratt Community College

The data from Pratt Community College reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduates has shown a notable upward trend, particularly in recent years. In 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was a mere 0.84%, but by 2023, this figure skyrocketed to 4.74%. This increase suggests a growing interest in the college from international students, likely influenced by various factors such as the college's programs, the reputation of American education, and perhaps more favorable immigration policies.

The peak in 2022, with 4.00% of undergraduates being international, demonstrates a significant milestone for the college, further indicating that the institution is becoming a more attractive destination for students from abroad. The growth in numbers, from just 12 international students in 2004 to 57 in 2023, reflects not only an increase in international student enrollment but also the college’s efforts to enhance its global presence.

This trend is consistent with national patterns where many community colleges across the United States have been increasingly welcoming international students, offering them opportunities for affordable education and cultural exchange. As the world becomes more interconnected, colleges like Pratt Community College may continue to experience an influx of international students, enriching the campus community and fostering a diverse educational environment.

Here are some notable universities surrounding Pratt Community College:

1. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Ranked 185th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

2. Kansas State University - With a ranking of 170th, Kansas State is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers a variety of degree programs.

3. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124th, this comprehensive university is recognized for its excellent academic programs and vibrant campus life.

4. University of Arkansas - This university, ranked 178th, offers a diverse array of programs and is known for its beautiful campus and strong community.

5. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - With a ranking of 159th, this university is known for its research initiatives and offers a wide range of academic programs.

6. Southern Methodist University - Ranked 89th, SMU is known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts, providing a vibrant and engaging academic environment.

These institutions provide excellent opportunities for students in the Pratt Community College area to further their education and pursue their academic goals.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Pratt Community College

Pratt Community College has displayed varying trends in crime rates over the years, with notable fluctuations in the average number of crimes per 1,000 students. In 2014, the college experienced a significant spike with a rate of 32.97 incidents per 1,000 students, which decreased to 12.93 by 2017. This peak might be indicative of underlying issues or a reaction to specific events that warrant further investigation.

The data reveals a troubling resurgence in crime rates in 2018, peaking again at 42.37 incidents per 1,000 students. This rise is particularly concerning, as it suggests that the college may be grappling with safety issues that could impact student well-being and enrollment. It is essential to recognize that crime rates can be influenced by multiple factors, including campus policies, community relations, and external societal influences.

Interestingly, the most recent years show a positive trend, with the crime rate dropping to 6.82 incidents per 1,000 students in 2023. This decrease could reflect effective crime prevention strategies or improved campus security measures. However, continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be necessary to maintain this downward trend and ensure a safe environment for all students.

Overall, while the data presents a mixed picture, it underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to address safety concerns on campus. Colleges must prioritize student safety and foster an environment where individuals feel secure and supported. For more information on crime rate calculations, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.