John C Calhoun State Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$8,990
In-state $5,120
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
9,119
Student-faculty ratio 22:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
40.8%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 46.3%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
John C. Calhoun State Community College (CCSC) is a prominent institution located in Alabama, offering a diverse range of educational opportunities for students seeking to advance their studies or enter the workforce. Established in 2000, the college is named after the influential American statesman John C. Calhoun and has a strong commitment to providing quality education that is accessible to all. CCSC is well-known for its robust community engagement and support services, which include academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, all aimed at helping students achieve their personal and professional goals. Additionally, the college emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education, encouraging participation in extracurricular activities, which fosters a vibrant campus culture.
One of the distinguishing features of John C. Calhoun State Community College is its wide array of programs that cater to various interests and career paths. The college offers more than 50 associate degree programs and numerous certificate options in fields such as health sciences, engineering technology, business, and the arts. This variety allows students to tailor their education to meet their career aspirations effectively. Furthermore, CCSC boasts modern facilities equipped with the latest technology, including well-maintained laboratories and computer centers, providing students with hands-on learning experiences essential for their future careers. With a focus on student success and community involvement, John C. Calhoun State Community College continues to play a vital role in the educational landscape of Alabama.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at John C. Calhoun State Community College
John C. Calhoun State Community College has demonstrated significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has consistently increased, rising from $4,140 in 2014 to $5,060 in 2024, marking a notable increase of approximately 22% within a decade. This continuous rise in tuition may pose financial challenges for students and could potentially influence enrollment figures in the future.
Conversely, student enrollment has shown a decline from 11,186 undergraduate students in 2014 to just 8,163 in 2023, indicating a drop of around 27%. This downward trend could be attributed to several factors, including rising tuition fees, changing demographics, or competition from other institutions. The decline in student numbers is concerning as it may affect the college's funding and resources available for academic programs.
Graduation rates, however, reveal a more optimistic trajectory. The on-time graduation rate has increased from approximately 5.3% in 2013 to 18.5% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate has risen from 11.4% to 32.1% in the same period. This substantial improvement suggests that the college has been successful in implementing strategies to enhance student academic success and support systems, fostering an environment conducive to completing degrees.
Lastly, retention rates have also exhibited positive growth, moving from about 53.5% in 2013 to 64.3% in 2023. This increase indicates that more students are choosing to continue their education at the institution, which can be interpreted as a sign of enhanced student satisfaction and engagement.
Overall, while rising tuition and declining enrollment present challenges, the improvement in graduation and retention rates highlights the institution's efforts to support and retain its students. Addressing the financial barriers will be crucial to ensure sustained growth and success in the coming years.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Huntsville, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- Calhoun Community College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Jimmy Hodges (President)
- Phone
- 2563062500
- Address
- 6250 U S Highway 31 N, Tanner, AL 35671
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at John C. Calhoun State Community College
The graduation data from John C. Calhoun State Community College reveals interesting trends regarding the distribution of degrees awarded in various fields. Notably, the highest number of associate degrees was conferred in General Studies, with 951 graduates, indicating a strong interest in foundational education that may prepare students for diverse career paths or further studies. This figure accounts for a significant proportion of total associate degrees, showcasing the program's popularity.
In the realm of healthcare, which includes numerous specialized programs, the numbers are modest yet noteworthy. Programs such as Dental Hygiene and Registered Nursing produced 12 and 184 graduates, respectively. This reflects the growing demand for healthcare professionals, a trend that has been accentuated by recent global health challenges, emphasizing the need for skilled practitioners in the field.
On the other hand, the data shows a complete absence of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees awarded across all programs, suggesting that John C. Calhoun State Community College primarily serves as a stepping stone for students aiming to achieve associate degrees. This could also indicate a focus on vocational training, aligning with workforce needs in the region.
Moreover, the presence of international students graduating from programs like Manufacturing Engineering Technology and Business Administration, although limited, highlights the college's potential role in attracting diverse student populations, which can enrich the learning environment and foster global perspectives.
Overall, the data underscores the significance of community colleges in providing accessible educational pathways, particularly in technical and healthcare fields, while also raising questions about the future expansion of bachelor’s and higher-level degree programs to meet evolving labor market demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 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 |
|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $37,620 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Assisting/Assistant. | - | |
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | - | |
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | $46,591 | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | |
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | - | |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $70,800 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician. | $73,664 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | |
| Music, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $40,495 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care and Support Services Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | - |
Students
9,119 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 65.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,597
- First-year undergraduates 1,197
- Transfers and others 3,325
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (9,119)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at John C. Calhoun State Community College
In 2023, John C. Calhoun State Community College showcased a diverse student body with a total enrollment of over 7,000 students across various categories, including new undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer students, and graduate students. The distribution highlights an interesting gender dynamic, particularly among undergraduate students. New undergraduates consist of 48.4% males and 51.6% females, while continuing undergraduates show a more pronounced female majority with 41.7% males and 58.3% females.
The transfer student population reflects a similar trend, with 41.9% males and 58.1% females. This suggests that the college has a welcoming environment for female students, which may encourage higher enrollment in both new and continuing undergraduate categories. However, the graduate student demographics indicate a different balance, with 53% males and 47% females, suggesting possible disparities in fields of study pursued at the graduate level.
Ethnic diversity is another critical aspect of the college's demographic data. Among new undergraduates, a significant portion identifies as white, followed by other racial and ethnic groups. However, specific percentages for continuing and transfer students remain unreported, highlighting a gap in data that could provide further insights into the overall diversity at the institution.
In summary, John C. Calhoun State Community College is characterized by a gender-diverse undergraduate population, while the graduate level sees a shift in gender balance. Continuous efforts to promote diversity across all student categories will be essential for fostering an inclusive academic environment. The data reflects broader trends in higher education, underscoring the importance of understanding student demographics in shaping institutional policies and support systems.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at John C. Calhoun State Community College
The age composition of students at John C. Calhoun State Community College reveals a clear trend favoring younger demographics, with the majority of the student body falling under the age of 24. Specifically, students aged 18-19 represent the largest group, comprising approximately 28.6% of the total male and female enrollment combined. This age group is crucial as it often encompasses recent high school graduates who are beginning their collegiate journey.
Interestingly, the data shows a significant drop in enrollment as age increases. For instance, the 22-24 age group accounts for about 11.5% of the total enrollment, while the 25-29 group follows closely behind at 8.3%. As the age brackets advance, the percentages continue to decline sharply, highlighting a trend that many community colleges experience—an enrollment concentration among younger students, with older age groups representing a diminishing fraction of the student population.
Another noteworthy observation is the absence of graduate male students, indicating a potential gap in advanced academic pursuits for males at this institution. This raises questions about the accessibility and appeal of graduate programs for male students, which could be an area for further exploration.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of targeting younger students, particularly those in their late teens to early twenties, while also considering strategies to engage older students and support their educational aspirations. As community colleges continue to play a vital role in higher education, understanding these demographic trends will be crucial for future planning and resource allocation.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
75 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at John C. Calhoun State Community College
The data on international student enrollment at John C. Calhoun State Community College over the years presents a compelling narrative about the changing landscape of higher education in the United States. From 2011 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students fluctuated, with notable peaks and troughs in the international student population.
In 2011, the percentage of international students among undergraduates was a modest 0.39%. However, this figure saw a significant rise, reaching its highest point of 1.01% in 2020. This increase could be attributed to various factors, such as the institution's growing reputation, targeted recruitment strategies, or broader trends in globalization and educational exchanges. It is worth noting that the international student community steadily increased from 47 in 2011 to 94 in 2020, reflecting a growing interest among non-domestic students to pursue their studies in the U.S.
Nonetheless, there was a decline in overall undergraduate enrollment figures post-2020, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on global travel and education. The percentages for 2021 to 2023 remained relatively stable around 0.69%, indicating that while the number of international students decreased, their proportion within the undergraduate body remained consistent.
The overall trend underscores the importance of community colleges in diversifying the educational landscape and providing opportunities for international students. As institutions like John C. Calhoun State Community College navigate the post-pandemic world, continued efforts to attract international students will be crucial for enhancing cultural exchange and sustaining enrollment levels.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$20,240
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $8,990
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,120
- Room and board
- $11,250
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 16% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 150%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$108M
Expenses$79.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 21 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 7 | 3 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 20 | 21 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Softball | - | 31 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 8 | 5 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 18 | 18 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 10 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Alabama--HuntsvilleHuntsville · 18.4 mi
U.S. News #262
-
The University of the SouthSewanee · 69.9 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham · 79.2 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Samford UniversityBirmingham · 82.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Lipscomb UniversityNashville · 101.3 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Belmont UniversityNashville · 103.3 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Vanderbilt UniversityNashville · 104.0 mi
U.S. News #16
-
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa · 104.8 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Tennessee Technological UniversityCookeville · 133.4 mi
U.S. News #299
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding John C Calhoun State Community College:
-
University of Alabama in Huntsville - Ranked 227 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on engineering and science.
-
The University of the South - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 51, it provides a unique educational experience in a picturesque setting, emphasizing personal growth and academic excellence.
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham - With a rank of 142, this comprehensive institution is known for its health sciences programs, research opportunities, and commitment to student success.
-
Vanderbilt University - A prestigious university ranked 18, Vanderbilt is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
-
Auburn University - Ranked 93, Auburn is a comprehensive university that offers a diverse array of programs and is known for its strong engineering, business, and agriculture departments.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities in the region, each with its own unique offerings and strengths.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at John C Calhoun State Community College
The data from John C Calhoun State Community College over the years reflects a notably low incidence of crime, particularly in recent years. After a single recorded incident in 2013, which resulted in a crime rate of 0.18 per 1000 students, the college saw a significant drop in criminal activity, with several years reporting no incidents at all. The only other recorded offenses occurred in 2018 and 2022, each yielding a crime rate of 0.10 and 0.11 per 1000 students, respectively.
This trend indicates a positive environment for students, suggesting effective campus safety measures and a strong community ethos. Notably, the types of offenses recorded included primarily gun-related arrests, which can be alarming in broader societal contexts where gun violence is a pressing issue. However, the absence of other serious crimes such as drug offenses, assaults, or thefts further underscores the college's commitment to maintaining a safe campus.
These statistics are encouraging, especially when compared to national averages where many educational institutions face higher crime rates. The data signifies a stable and secure setting for both current and prospective students, reinforcing the importance of ongoing safety initiatives.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of John C Calhoun State Community College include Bo Bice (Singer, runner-up on American Idol season four), Jorge Posada (Former Yankees catcher in MLB) and John Douglas (Basketball coach and former NBA player).
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Bo Bice 1975–
Singer, runner-up on American Idol season four
-
Jorge Posada 1970–
Former Yankees catcher in MLB
-
John Douglas 1956–
Basketball coach and former NBA player
-
Buddy Boshers 1988–
Former MLB pitcher
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.