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Public, 4-year

Eastern Arizona College

Thatcher, Arizona · www.eac.edu

中文

Out-of-state tuition

$9,552

In-state $2,352

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

5,213

Student-faculty ratio 16:1

Peer median 18 : 1

“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Eastern Arizona College (EAC) is a comprehensive community college located in Thatcher, Arizona, serving the educational needs of the region since its establishment in 1888. One of the key features of EAC is its commitment to providing accessible and high-quality education to a diverse student population. The college offers a wide range of programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs that prepare students for successful careers or further studies at four-year institutions. EAC is particularly known for its strong emphasis on vocational training and workforce development, which aligns with local economic needs and provides students with practical skills in various fields.

The campus culture at Eastern Arizona College is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. The college promotes an active student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and events that encourage student engagement and leadership. EAC also boasts excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that support both academic and extracurricular activities. The college's dedication to student success is reflected in its supportive academic resources, such as tutoring and advising services, which help students navigate their educational journeys. With its strong academic programs, supportive environment, and commitment to community engagement, Eastern Arizona College continues to be a vital institution for higher education in the region.

Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Eastern Arizona College

The data from Eastern Arizona College reveals significant trends in tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has shown a steady increase from $1,920 in 2014 to $2,352 in 2024, reflecting a broader trend in rising educational costs across the United States. In contrast, out-of-state tuition saw an increase from $8,820 to $9,552 over the same period, indicating that the financial burden for non-resident students is also escalating.

Student enrollment has experienced fluctuations, peaking at 6,602 in 2014 but then declining to a low of 4,392 in 2021, before gradually rising again to 4,864 by 2023. This downward trend during the earlier years could be attributed to various factors, including economic conditions or shifts in demographic trends.

Graduation rates present a more encouraging picture, particularly the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates, which rose significantly from 5.85% in 2014 to 38.57% in 2022. This increase suggests improvements in academic support or student engagement initiatives that may be contributing to better outcomes for students. However, the retention rate shows more variability, peaking at 70.47% in 2021 but declining to 50.82% in 2023, indicating potential challenges in maintaining student persistence.

These trends highlight ongoing challenges and successes for Eastern Arizona College. As tuition continues to rise, the institution must find ways to enhance student support and retention to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder student success. The rising graduation rates are promising, indicating that initiatives to support student achievement may be having a positive impact.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Tucson, about 80 mi
Nearest international airport
Tucson International Airport (TUS), about 90 mi
Thatcher, Arizona
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Todd Haynie (President)
Phone
9284288272
City
Thatcher, Arizona
Address
615 N. Stadium Ave., Thatcher, AZ 85552-0769

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate5143 international (0.6%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
General Studies
232
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
62
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
25
Elementary Education and Teaching
14
Organizational Leadership
14
Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician
11
Business Administration and Management, General
11
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
11
Commercial and Advertising Art
10
Welding Technology/Welder
10

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Eastern Arizona College

The graduation data from Eastern Arizona College presents a comprehensive overview of the degrees conferred across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the data indicates a strong emphasis on associate degrees, particularly in fields like Nursing and Education, which reflects the growing demand for skilled professionals in healthcare and teaching. For instance, the Registered Nursing program alone had 59 graduates, underscoring the critical need for healthcare workers amidst ongoing global health challenges.

Furthermore, the absence of graduates in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs across numerous disciplines suggests either a focus on vocational training or a limited scope of higher academic offerings. This trend may be indicative of the college's strategy to cater to local workforce needs, particularly in technical fields such as Welding Technology and Automotive Mechanics, where hands-on skills are paramount.

Another interesting aspect is the lack of international students graduating in most programs, highlighting potential barriers for international enrollment. This could be a reflection of broader immigration policies affecting educational institutions across the United States.

Lastly, the substantial number of graduates in General Studies and Liberal Arts indicates a robust foundational curriculum that prepares students for diverse career paths or further education opportunities. Overall, the data illustrates Eastern Arizona College's commitment to providing practical, career-oriented education while also responding to local and global workforce 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

Liberal arts has 232 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
General Studies.$28,394
Health professionshas 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).-
Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist.-
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies.-
Pre-Pharmacy Studies.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$75,106
Businesshas 35 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Organizational Leadership.-
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Educationhas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Visual and Performing artshas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Commercial and Advertising Art.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.-
Music, General.-
Mechanic and repair has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician.-
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.-
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Precision production has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Machine Shop Technology/Assistant.-
Welding Technology/Welder.-
Engineering technologieshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians.-
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Psychology has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.-
Homeland security has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Criminal Justice/Police Science.-
Culinary has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.-
Engineeringhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Engineering, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Information Science/Studies.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Social sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
History, General.-
Foreign languages has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Mathematics, General.-
Biologyhas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Writing, General.-

Students

5,213 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,213)

White
3,244 · 62.2%
Hispanic
1,254 · 24.1%
Unknown
138 · 2.6%
Black
99 · 1.9%
International
65 · 1.2%
Two or more races
54 · 1.0%
Asian
33 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
21.4%
18–19
16.9%
20–21
8.4%
22–24
5.7%
25 and over
47.7%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Eastern Arizona College in 2023

The student body at Eastern Arizona College reflects a diverse and balanced community in 2023. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is an almost equal distribution of male (49.5%) and female (50.5%) students, showcasing a welcoming environment for new entrants. This gender balance is a positive indicator of the institution's commitment to inclusivity.

In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen exhibit a significantly higher female presence, with women constituting 63.9% of the population, compared to 36.1% for men. This disparity may suggest a trend where women are more likely to persist in their studies or could reflect broader societal patterns in education.

Transfer students also show a majority of females at 57.1%, with males at 42.9%. This trend is consistent with the overall representation of women in higher education, which has been steadily increasing in recent years.

The overall student population is further enriched by a significant number of international students and individuals from various ethnic backgrounds. For instance, the data reveals that the majority of students identify as White, which is indicative of the demographic landscape in many American colleges. However, the presence of other groups such as Asian, Latino, and African American students highlights the college's efforts to create a diverse educational environment.

In summary, Eastern Arizona College's student demographics in 2023 illustrate a dynamic and inclusive educational atmosphere, with a noteworthy gender balance among freshmen and a diverse mix of ethnicities that contribute to a robust learning community.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Eastern Arizona College

The age composition of students at Eastern Arizona College reveals interesting trends about the demographic landscape of the institution. Notably, the majority of students fall into the younger age categories, with particularly high enrollment numbers for those under 18 and between 18 to 19 years old. This suggests that the college attracts a significant number of recent high school graduates, which aligns with national trends where community colleges often serve as a stepping stone for young adults entering higher education.

The data indicates a notable absence of graduate male and female students, highlighting a potential area for growth in advanced degree programs. As the workforce increasingly demands higher qualifications, community colleges like Eastern Arizona may want to consider strategies to attract more graduate students.

There is also a significant representation of students aged 50 and above, particularly among female students, which may reflect the growing trend of lifelong learning and the desire for career advancement or personal enrichment among older adults. This demographic shift is increasingly important, as it underscores the need for educational institutions to provide flexible learning options that cater to non-traditional students.

Moreover, the apparent drop in student numbers in the 20-21 age group might suggest a gap in enrollment for those transitioning from undergraduate studies, pointing to the importance of support systems to retain these students.

In conclusion, Eastern Arizona College's age demographics reveal both opportunities and challenges. The institution must continue to adapt its programs and outreach strategies to serve a diverse student body while addressing the noticeable absence of graduate-level enrollment.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.2%

65 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.3%2017: 1.1%2018: 1.0%2019: 0.8%2020: 0.6%2021: 0.6%2022: 0.5%2023: 0.8%2024: 1.2%2025: 1.2%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Eastern Arizona College

The data on international student enrollment at Eastern Arizona College over the years reveals notable trends and fluctuations. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students increased significantly, from 3,925 to 4,864. However, the proportion of international students has varied considerably. In 2004, only 0.33% of the undergraduate population were international students, but this figure peaked at 1.27% in 2016, showcasing a growing openness towards global education during that period.

The years following 2016 saw some decline in both the number and percentage of international students, likely influenced by various external factors, including immigration policies and global events that may have affected student mobility. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, had a significant impact on international education, leading to decreased enrollment in many institutions. This is reflected in the data, particularly in 2021 and 2022, where enrollment numbers remained relatively low.

Interestingly, the data does show a resurgence in 2023, with international students once again making up 0.76% of the undergraduate population. This could indicate a recovery and renewed interest in studying abroad, perhaps spurred by an easing of travel restrictions and a desire for diverse educational experiences.

Overall, while Eastern Arizona College has seen fluctuations in international student enrollment, the recent trends suggest a potential rebound, emphasizing the importance of international education in fostering cultural exchange and global perspectives within academic environments.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$17,602

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$9,552
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$2,352
Room and board
$8,050
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose -0% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 24%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$63.5M

Government grants and contracts
$49.8M78.5%
Tuition and fees
$5.2M8.2%
Investment return
$2.8M4.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.7M4.3%
Gifts and private grants
$369K0.6%
Other
$2.5M4.0%

Expenses$59.0M

Instruction
$18.6M31.5%
Institutional support
$11.6M19.7%
Student services
$9.4M16.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.9M9.9%
Scholarships
$4.7M8.0%
Academic support
$1.5M2.6%
Other
$7.2M12.3%

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.

All faculty
$79,656peers $68,588
Professor
$91,910peers $79,972
Associate professor
$74,943peers $69,677

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
2025
NJCAA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer2929
Baseball33-
Softball-29
Basketball1313
Volleyball-15
Golf8-
2024
NJCAA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer2222
Basketball1515
Baseball28-
Softball-20
Volleyball-16
Golf9-
2023
NJCAA Division IMENWOMEN
Basketball1316
Baseball27-
Softball-20
Volleyball-18
Golf7-
Tennis-6

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities around Eastern Arizona College:

  1. University of Arizona (亚利桑那大学) - Ranked 115 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.

  2. Arizona State University Campus Immersion (亚利桑那州立大学) - With a rank of 105, ASU is known for its innovative research and diverse academic offerings, making it a popular choice for students.

  3. Northern Arizona University (北亚利桑那大学) - Ranked 249, this university focuses on providing a personalized education experience and is recognized for its strong programs in education and health sciences.

  4. University of New Mexico-Main Campus (新墨西哥大学) - With a rank of 236, it offers a range of programs and is known for its vibrant campus life and commitment to research.

  5. San Diego State University (圣地亚哥州立大学) - Ranked 105, SDSU is known for its strong academic programs and is a leader in research and community engagement.

  6. University of California-San Diego (加州大学圣地亚哥分校) - With an impressive rank of 28, UCSD is renowned for its research initiatives and academic excellence, particularly in the sciences and engineering.

  7. Pomona College (波莫纳学院) - Ranked 4, this liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus, providing an intimate educational setting.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor arrests
72
Drug arrests
25
Liquor referrals
5
Aggravated assault
4
Fondling
2
Drug referrals
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Eastern Arizona College

The crime data from Eastern Arizona College over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 students. The peak occurred in 2017, with a rate of 12.21, indicating a concerning level of incidents during that time. Notably, the sharp decline in 2018 to 1.63 suggests that the college may have implemented effective measures to improve campus safety or that external factors influenced this drop.

The data shows a gradual increase again in 2023, climbing to 4.81. This rise may prompt the administration to reassess their security protocols and community outreach programs aimed at preventing crimes such as assault, drug-related arrests, and domestic violence. It’s crucial to note that while the overall crime rates appear to have subsided since 2017, specific incidents, particularly related to domestic violence and drug offenses, should be monitored closely given their potential impact on student well-being.

The trends observed could also reflect broader societal issues, such as the influence of drug use and violence in the community surrounding the college. Engaging students in crime prevention programs and fostering a supportive campus environment could be beneficial strategies moving forward.

The crime rate calculation method can be referenced here for a deeper understanding of how these statistics are derived and their implications for campus safety initiatives.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Eastern Arizona College include Nick Nolte (Actor with three Academy Award nominations), James Tolkan (Character actor known as a strict vice principal) and Henry Eyring (Theoretical chemist who developed transition state theory).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

Science and academia

Sports

  • Orlando Huff 1978–

    Former NFL linebacker drafted by the Seahawks

  • John Mitchell 1951–

    Former American football player and coach

    Also attended: The University of Alabama

  • Michael Haynes 1965–

    Former NFL wide receiver

  • Mitch Hoopes 1953–2020

    Former NFL punter for the Dallas Cowboys and others

  • Brandon Stewart 1986–

    Former CFL defensive back

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.