Arizona Western College
Out-of-state tuition
$9,870
In-state $3,060
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
8,964
Student-faculty ratio 22:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
25.4%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 29.0%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Arizona Western College (AWC) is a community college located in Yuma, Arizona, known for its commitment to providing accessible education and fostering student success. Established in 1963, AWC serves a diverse population of students from various backgrounds and has built a reputation for its strong academic programs and supportive learning environment. The college's mission emphasizes the importance of empowering students through education, and this is reflected in its motto: "Learning for Life." AWC offers a range of associate degree programs, vocational training, and transfer opportunities to four-year universities, ensuring that students have the flexibility to pursue their educational and career goals.
The college boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which enhance the overall student experience. Additionally, AWC is known for its vibrant campus culture, which promotes student involvement through various clubs, organizations, and events, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The college also places a strong emphasis on athletics, featuring competitive sports programs that encourage physical fitness and teamwork among students. With a focus on both academic excellence and holistic development, Arizona Western College stands out as a nurturing institution for aspiring learners seeking to advance their education and prepare for future careers.
Analysis of Tuition Trends and Student Outcomes
Over the past decade, Arizona Western College has seen a significant rise in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, the in-state tuition was $1,776, while by 2024, it is projected to reach $2,820, representing an increase of approximately 58.7%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition has escalated from $7,224 to $9,630, a staggering increase of about 33.3%. This trend raises important questions about affordability and access to higher education, especially given the financial burdens many families face today.
In terms of student population, enrollment figures reveal fluctuations, with a peak of 8,081 undergraduates in 2022, followed by a slight decline to 8,050 in 2023. This suggests that while the college may be attracting students, factors such as rising costs could potentially impact future enrollment numbers.
The retention rate has generally shown stability, hovering around the mid-60s percentage-wise, which indicates that once students enroll, they tend to remain at the institution. However, graduation rates tell a different story. The timely graduation rate for undergraduate students remains low, with only 11.3% graduating on time as of 2023, and 23.4% graduating within 150% of the expected timeframe. These figures highlight the challenges students face in completing their degrees, which can be exacerbated by financial pressures stemming from increasing tuition costs.
In summary, while Arizona Western College has made strides in maintaining student enrollment and retention, the climbing tuition rates and low graduation statistics reflect broader challenges within the higher education landscape that warrant continued attention and strategic action.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Phoenix, about 150 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), about 140 mi
- Also known as
- AWC, A.W.C., AZ Western, AZ Western College, Arizona Western, Yuma/LaPaz Community College District, Yuma/La Paz Counties Community College District
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Daniel Corr (President)
- Phone
- 9283176000
- Address
- 2020 S. Avenue 8E, Yuma, AZ 85365-8834
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Arizona Western College
The graduation data from Arizona Western College for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends in various fields of study. Notably, the General Studies program stands out with a significant number of associate degrees awarded, totaling 430 graduates. This suggests that many students are choosing to pursue a broad-based education, potentially to explore multiple disciplines before committing to a specific career path. Such flexibility can be advantageous in today’s rapidly changing job market.
Interestingly, many technical and vocational programs, such as Carpentry and Fire Science, have recorded modest graduation numbers, with 4 to 6 graduates each. This could indicate a growing interest in practical skills that are essential in the labor market. However, the absence of international students graduating in these fields points to a potential area for growth; attracting a more diverse student body could enhance the learning environment and better prepare graduates for global job opportunities.
Furthermore, the data indicates a complete lack of bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees awarded in all listed programs, highlighting a significant gap in advanced degree offerings. This could reflect the college's focus on associate degrees and technical training, which may limit pathways for students seeking higher education.
Overall, Arizona Western College appears to be catering to a strong demand for associate degrees in general studies and practical skills, while also facing challenges in expanding its advanced education programs and attracting international students. This scenario calls for strategic planning to enhance the college's academic offerings and improve its competitive edge in the higher education landscape.
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. | $30,505 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | |
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | - | |
| Community Health and Preventive Medicine. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Accounting. | - | |
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $36,371 | |
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | $36,371 | |
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | - | |
| Homeland Security. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |
| Computer Graphics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | - | |
| Crop Production. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Carpentry/Carpenter. | - | |
| Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician. | - |
Students
8,964 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 67.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,121
- First-year undergraduates 504
- Transfers and others 4,339
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (8,964)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Arizona Western College in 2023
The student demographics at Arizona Western College reveal significant insights into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate populations in 2023. Among the undergraduate freshmen, the total number of students is 2,096, with a gender distribution of 43% male and 57% female. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, where the population is larger at 5,242, and the gender ratio shifts slightly to 39% male and 61% female, indicating a consistent trend of higher female enrollment across these categories.
Interestingly, the transfer student category shows a slight increase in male representation, with 43.6% of the 257 students identifying as male. This suggests that transfer students may have different dynamics regarding gender representation, possibly influenced by their prior institutions.
A noteworthy aspect of the demographics is the diversity within the student body. While specific numbers for individual ethnic groups were not fully disclosed, the data indicates that the college is home to various ethnicities, including White, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students. This diversity is essential in fostering an inclusive educational environment and enriching the academic experience for all students.
Overall, the gender distribution and the diverse student body reflect broader trends seen in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that women are increasingly pursuing higher education at higher rates than men. As educational institutions adapt to these demographic shifts, it will be interesting to see how they cater to the needs of diverse student populations in the coming years.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Arizona Western College
The age distribution of students at Arizona Western College reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. A majority of the students fall within the younger age categories, particularly those under 18 and between 18-19 years old, comprising 64% of the total male students and 66% of the total female students. This trend reflects the broader national pattern in community colleges where younger students often seek higher education immediately after high school.
As we progress through the age groups, there is a notable decline in student numbers. Students aged 20-21 account for only 29% of male and 26% of female students, which may suggest that many individuals tend to transition to four-year institutions after completing their initial college experiences. Furthermore, the 22-24 age group is also limited, with just 9% of male students and 10% of female students in this bracket.
Interestingly, the older age brackets reveal a stark drop-off, with very few students over the age of 30 attending. Only 11% of the total male and female students are aged 30 and above, indicating that Arizona Western College primarily serves a younger demographic. The presence of older students is minimal, with those over 65 representing just 0.5% of the total student population.
Overall, these statistics underscore the college's role as a primary institution for younger students pursuing higher education, while also indicating potential areas for growth in attracting adult learners and non-traditional students. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, addressing the needs of a diverse age demographic will be vital for institutions like Arizona Western College.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
138 in 2025 · 3.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Arizona Western College
The data reveals significant fluctuations in the number of international students enrolled at Arizona Western College over the years. From 2004 to 2006, the international student population was notably low, with only 20 students in 2004 and a remarkable increase to 667 by 2006, indicating a growing interest in the college from international communities. This surge peaked in 2007, when international students comprised over 12% of the total undergraduate enrollment, suggesting that the college may have implemented strategies to attract more international students during this period.
However, the trend took a downward turn from 2008 onwards, with the percentage of international students dropping significantly. By 2019, the figure plummeted to just 1.26%, and this decline continued into 2021, reaching an all-time low of 0.82%. This trend could reflect broader factors affecting international education, such as economic conditions, changes in immigration policies, or competition from other institutions.
The recent data from 2022 and 2023 shows a slight recovery, with the percentage of international students rising to 1.30% and 1.34%, respectively. While these numbers are still considerably lower than the peak years, they may indicate a gradual resurgence in international interest. As global travel and education resume post-pandemic, Arizona Western College may benefit from reevaluating its approach to attracting and supporting international students to enhance diversity and enrich the educational experience for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$18,408
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $9,870
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $3,060
- Room and board
- $8,538
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 35%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$101M
Expenses$90.4M
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 | 24 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 32 | 23 |
| Baseball | 26 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 26 |
| Baseball | 27 | - |
| Basketball | 12 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
San Diego State UniversitySan Diego · 149.8 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Arizona State University-TempeTempe · 156.6 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of San DiegoSan Diego · 156.8 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of California-San DiegoLa Jolla · 159.7 mi
U.S. News #29
-
University of California-RiversideRiverside · 185.9 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Soka University of AmericaAliso Viejo · 196.7 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 204.5 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Chapman UniversityOrange · 208.4 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of ArizonaTucson · 209.1 mi
U.S. News #121
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Arizona Western College:
-
University of California-San Diego - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, UCSD is a prestigious research university located in La Jolla, California. It is known for its strong emphasis on science and engineering programs.
-
University of California-Irvine - With a ranking of 33, UCI is recognized for its excellent academic programs and is a leading institution in research and innovation.
-
University of Arizona - Ranked 115th, this university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
-
California State University-Long Beach - This university ranks 105th and offers a diverse array of programs and a strong commitment to student success.
-
Chapman University - Ranked 133rd, Chapman is located in Orange, California, and is known for its film and business programs.
-
Harvey Mudd College - One of the top liberal arts colleges specializing in science and engineering, Harvey Mudd is ranked 16th and is part of the Claremont Colleges consortium.
-
Pomona College - Ranked 4th, Pomona College is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.
These institutions represent a range of options for prospective students in the area, each offering unique programs and opportunities.
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
Analysis of Crime Data at Arizona Western College
The crime statistics at Arizona Western College reveal a notable decline in reported incidents over the years. From a high of 6.40 incidents per 1,000 students in 2018, the rate has significantly decreased to just 0.50 incidents per 1,000 students in 2023. This downward trend is commendable, suggesting improved safety measures and a more secure campus environment.
In the earlier years of the data, particularly from 2013 to 2016, the college experienced fluctuating crime rates, peaking in 2016 with 5.46 incidents per 1,000 students. However, the most significant drop occurred between 2019 and 2021, where the rate plummeted from 2.69 to 0.65 incidents per 1,000 students. This sharp decline could indicate effective intervention strategies, increased awareness among students, or a combination of both.
The types of offenses recorded, such as arrests related to gun possession and drug use, also reflect a broader trend observed in many educational institutions. Colleges across the country are grappling with issues related to substance abuse and campus safety. The decline in crime rates at Arizona Western College is a positive sign that may provide a model for other institutions facing similar challenges.
Overall, the data suggests that Arizona Western College is making strides in enhancing safety on campus, which is crucial for fostering a positive educational environment. Continued vigilance and proactive measures will be essential to maintain and further improve these statistics in the coming years. For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Arizona Western College include Nate Archibald (Former NBA player with the Kings and Celtics), Bengie Molina (Puerto Rican baseball catcher) and Eli Crane (U.S. representative from Arizona and former Navy SEAL).
-
Nate Archibald 1948–
Former NBA player with the Kings and Celtics
-
Bengie Molina 1974–
Puerto Rican baseball catcher
-
Eli Crane 1980–
U.S. representative from Arizona and former Navy SEAL
-
Greta Espinoza 1995–
Mexican national team footballer and defender
-
Mehdi Cheriet 1987–
French former professional basketball player
-
Eddie Edwards 1954–
Former Cincinnati Bengals defensive end
-
Frank Pratt 1942–2021
Arizona state senator
-
Lynne Pancrazi
Former Arizona state senator
-
Frank Shankwitz 1943–2021
Co-founder of the Make-A-Wish Foundation
More alumni (2, by field)
Sports
-
Daichi Taniguchi 1990–
Japanese professional basketball player
-
Pedro Meza 1985–
Mexican basketball player
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.