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Public, 4-year

Mesa Community College

Mesa, Arizona · www.mesacc.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$8,959

In-state $2,358

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

17,077

Student-faculty ratio 18:1

Peer median 18 : 1

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

About

Mesa Community College (MCC), located in Mesa, Arizona, is one of the largest community colleges in the state, known for its commitment to accessible education and diverse academic programs. Established in 1965, MCC offers a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs in various fields, including business, health sciences, engineering, and liberal arts. The college emphasizes a student-centered approach, providing personalized support services, such as academic advising and tutoring, to help students achieve their educational goals. Additionally, MCC features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and technology centers, which enhance the learning experience for students.

The college's vibrant campus culture fosters a strong sense of community and engagement among students. With numerous clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities, students have ample opportunities to develop leadership skills and build lasting friendships. MCC also offers a variety of athletic programs, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle among its students. The college's commitment to diversity is reflected in its inclusive environment, welcoming individuals from various backgrounds and promoting cultural awareness. As a result, graduates of Mesa Community College are well-prepared for successful careers or further education, making it a vital contributor to the local economy and workforce development.

Analysis of Key Trends at Mesa Community College

The data from Mesa Community College presents several noteworthy trends that highlight both challenges and areas of growth. One of the most significant changes is the increasing tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, in-state tuition was $1,974, which rose to $2,358 by 2024, marking a substantial increase of nearly 19%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition saw an increase from $7,758 to $8,959. This rise in tuition costs can create barriers for prospective students, particularly as the burden of student debt continues to be a pressing issue nationwide.

Another critical area is the graduation rates, which remain low despite some fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students was approximately 5% in 2014, peaking at about 9% in 2021 before hovering around 8% in 2023. These figures indicate that a significant number of students are not completing their degrees in a timely manner, which may have long-term implications for their career trajectories and financial stability.

Additionally, the retention rates have shown variability, with a noticeable decline in 2021 (56%) compared to previous years. While retention rates rebounded slightly in the subsequent years, maintaining student engagement remains crucial for improving graduation rates and ensuring students stay on track.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has also seen a concerning trend, dropping from 21 students per faculty member in 2013 to 15 in 2023. This reduction could suggest an effort to provide more personalized education, yet it may also reflect declining enrollment numbers, which could strain institutional resources.

Overall, while Mesa Community College is making strides in some areas, the rising tuition costs, low graduation rates, fluctuating retention, and shrinking student-to-faculty ratios point to the need for targeted interventions to enhance student success and institutional sustainability.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Phoenix, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), about 8 mi
Mesa, Arizona
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Richard J. Daniel, Ph.D. (President)
Phone
4804617000
City
Mesa, Arizona
Address
1833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1,68731 international (1.8%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
354
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
172
Business Administration and Management, General
144
Psychology, General
57
Physical Sciences, General
52
General Studies
50
Pre-Engineering
47
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
45
Salon/Beauty Salon Management/Manager
45
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
33

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Mesa Community College

The graduation data from Mesa Community College in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends, particularly in the fields of agriculture and engineering. The associate degree programs in Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture, as well as various engineering technologies, have shown a consistent output of graduates, which is indicative of the growing interest in these fields. For instance, the associate degree in Agroecology produced 3 graduates, while the Drafting and Design Technology program yielded 15. This suggests a keen focus on practical and environmentally sustainable practices in agriculture, resonating with current global trends towards sustainability and eco-consciousness.

In contrast, it is striking to observe that there were no graduates reported for bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degrees across these disciplines. This absence of higher degree completions could suggest a gap in progression opportunities for students, potentially limiting their future career advancements. It also raises questions about the availability of resources and support for students seeking to continue their education beyond the associate level.

Moreover, the complete lack of international students graduating in these programs highlights a potential area for growth. As educational institutions increasingly become global entities, attracting international students can enrich the learning environment and provide diverse perspectives. This data underscores the opportunity for Mesa Community College to enhance its outreach and support systems for international students, which could ultimately contribute to a more vibrant academic community.

Overall, while the associate degree programs are performing reasonably well, the lack of higher degree graduates and international representation points to critical areas for strategic development and investment in the future.

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 405 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$41,618
General Studies.$41,618
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.$41,618
Health professionshas 221 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Communication Sciences and Disorders, General.-
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist.$65,056
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).-
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$80,755
Businesshas 202 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.-
Organizational Behavior Studies.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Real Estate.-
Insurance.-
Merchandising and Buying Operations.-
Fashion Merchandising.-
Computer and information sciencehas 93 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Information Technology.-
Computer Programming, Specific Applications.-
Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst.-
Computer Science.-
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design.-
Network and System Administration/Administrator.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Visual and Performing artshas 90 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Design and Visual Communications, General.-
Fashion/Apparel Design.-
Graphic Design.-
Illustration.-
Game and Interactive Media Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Musical Theatre.-
Photography.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Music Performance, General.-
Music Technology.-
Music Management.-
Homeland security has 67 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.-
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Psychology has 57 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.-
Physical scienceshas 57 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Physical Sciences, General.-
Meteorology.-
Physics, General.-
Educationhas 55 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Engineeringhas 47 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Pre-Engineering.-
Culinary has 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Salon/Beauty Salon Management/Manager.-
Biologyhas 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Public administrationhas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Social Work.-
Construction trades has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Building/Construction Site Management/Manager.-
Building Construction Technology/Technician.-
Mechanic and repair has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technology/Technician.-
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Physical Fitness Technician.-
Engineering technologieshas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Automation Engineer Technology/Technician.-
Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
Communications technologies has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Recording Arts Technology/Technician.-
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.-
Social sciencehas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.-
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Communication has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Communication, General.-
Journalism.-
Agricultural has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture.-
Ornamental Horticulture.-
Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant.-
Precision production has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Welding Technology/Welder.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Sustainability Studies.-
English has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Creative Writing.-
General Literature.-
History has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Mathematics, General.-
Foreign languages has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Japanese Language and Literature.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Philosophy has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Philosophy.-
Human science has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Human Nutrition.-
Family and Community Services.-
Legal professionshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Legal Studies.-
Cultural has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
American Indian/Native American Studies.-

Students

17,077 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (17,077)

White
7,339 · 43.0%
Hispanic
6,045 · 35.4%
Black
972 · 5.7%
Two or more races
858 · 5.0%
Asian
679 · 4.0%
Unknown
403 · 2.4%
International
248 · 1.5%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
14.0%
18–19
21.8%
20–21
15.9%
22–24
14.2%
25 and over
34.2%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Mesa Community College in 2023

Mesa Community College's data for 2023 reveals a diverse student body with significant gender representation across various categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 2,317, with a near-equal gender distribution: 49.8% male and 50.2% female. This balance reflects a growing trend in higher education where female enrollment is often on the rise, suggesting that more women are pursuing higher education opportunities.

In the undergraduate junior category, which comprises 7,616 students, the female representation is slightly higher, with 55.1% of students being female and 44.9% male. This trend continues with undergraduate transfer students, where females account for 54.2% of the 1,418 students. The overall trend indicates a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment, particularly in upper-class levels.

The data on the overall demographic breakdown by race and ethnicity is partially available, particularly for white students, who make up a significant portion of the population. However, detailed statistics for other ethnic groups remain unspecified, which could provide further insights into the diversity of the student body.

This demographic structure is important as it reflects broader societal trends in education. As institutions strive for inclusivity, understanding these patterns can help tailor support services and programs that meet the needs of a diverse student population. With a significant number of students identifying as women and a noticeable representation of various ethnic groups, Mesa Community College is positioned to foster an environment that encourages diverse perspectives and academic success.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Mesa Community College

The age distribution of students at Mesa Community College reveals several noteworthy trends. A significant portion of the student body is composed of individuals under 18, with 962 male undergraduates and 1,485 female undergraduates, accounting for approximately 39% of the total enrollment. The 18-19 age group follows closely behind, with 1,555 male and 1,778 female undergraduates, making up about 37% of the total.

As students progress into their twenties, the numbers begin to decline steadily. For instance, the 20-21 age group includes 1,238 male and 1,317 female undergraduates, which together represent around 27% of the overall population. The data indicates a consistent decrease in enrollment from ages 22 to 34, suggesting that as students age, fewer are pursuing higher education at this institution. Notably, the 25-29 age group has 874 male and 1,007 female undergraduates, while the 30-34 group shows even lower figures.

Interestingly, the college sees a dwindling number of students in the older age brackets, particularly those over 35. Only 303 males and 395 females fall within the 35-39 age range, further decreasing as age increases. This trend could indicate that traditional college-age students are more likely to enroll, while older adults may be seeking alternative educational pathways, such as online courses or vocational training.

Overall, the data suggests that Mesa Community College serves a predominantly younger demographic, with a clear focus on traditional college-age students. This information can be crucial for future planning and resource allocation, ensuring that the institution continues to meet the needs of its primary student population effectively.

International Students

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

Undergraduates1.5%

248 in 2025 · 2.9% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.9%2017: 2.8%2018: 2.2%2019: 1.9%2020: 1.7%2021: 1.6%2022: 1.2%2023: 1.5%2024: 1.4%2025: 1.5%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Mesa Community College

The data from Mesa Community College reveals an interesting trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting in 2004, the number of undergraduate students was over 26,000, with international students comprising only 1.53% of the total. This percentage has shown a gradual decline, reaching its lowest point of 0.98% in 2013. However, the years that followed saw a noticeable fluctuation, with a significant increase in the number of international students, peaking at 2.92% in 2016.

This upturn could be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, the global reputation of U.S. educational institutions, and the increasing desire for students worldwide to gain international experience. The subsequent decrease in enrollment from 2018 onwards, with the international student percentage hovering around 1.45% in 2023, raises concerns about the stability of international student recruitment, especially considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global education.

As international enrollment is crucial for the diversity and financial health of educational institutions, Mesa Community College may need to reassess its strategies to attract and support international students. Emphasizing the unique opportunities available and fostering a welcoming environment can help revive interest. The changing landscape of global education demands that institutions remain adaptable and proactive in their outreach to ensure a vibrant and diverse student body.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$19,831

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$8,959
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$2,358
Room and board
$10,872
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 14% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 92%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$148M

Government grants and contracts
$120M80.7%
Tuition and fees
$25.7M17.3%
Gifts and private grants
$1.9M1.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$720K0.5%
Investment return
$1K0.0%

Expenses$148M

Instruction
$63.8M42.9%
Institutional support
$28.0M18.9%
Academic support
$21.2M14.3%
Student services
$14.9M10.0%
Scholarships
$12.6M8.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.5M5.1%
Public service
$521K0.4%

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
$96,271peers $68,588

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
2025
NJCAA Division II MENWOMEN
Soccer3523
Track and Field (Outdoor)3421
Track and Field (Indoor)3219
Baseball36-
Basketball1516
Cross Country177
Volleyball-16
Beach Volleyball-15
Golf95
Softball-13
Tennis76
2024
NJCAA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)5026
Track and Field (Indoor)4924
Soccer2621
Baseball32-
Basketball1317
Cross Country189
Volleyball-18
Golf105
Tennis78
Softball-13
Beach Volleyball-12
2023
NJCAA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)4925
Track and Field (Indoor)4425
Soccer2022
Baseball33-
Basketball1510
Cross Country147
Softball-19
Tennis87
Volleyball-15
Golf77
Beach Volleyball-12

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable nearby schools to Mesa Community College:

  1. Arizona State University Campus Immersion - Ranked 105 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its innovative research initiatives.

  2. University of Arizona - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and offers a diverse array of programs, particularly in areas like science and technology.

  3. University of California-San Diego - Ranked 28, this prestigious university is renowned for its rigorous academics and research output, especially in the fields of science, engineering, and social sciences.

  4. Pomona College - This highly-ranked liberal arts college is known for its strong academic programs and a vibrant campus community, making it a top choice for students seeking a well-rounded education.

  5. Harvey Mudd College - Ranked 16, this top liberal arts college focuses on engineering, mathematics, and the sciences, offering an exceptional education in a collaborative environment.

These institutions represent a range of educational opportunities in various fields and are all within a reasonable distance from Mesa Community College.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Stalking
3
Burglary
2
Rape
1
Fondling
1
Aggravated assault
1
Motor vehicle theft
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Mesa Community College

The crime rate data from Mesa Community College over the years shows a notable decline, particularly in the recent years. In 2013, the average number of crimes reported per 1,000 students was 0.46, which is significantly higher than the 0.13 reported in 2023. This downward trend is promising and indicates a concerted effort by the college to improve campus safety.

A closer look at specific crimes reveals fluctuations in the rates of gun-related arrests and drug offenses. For instance, in 2016, there was a peak in reported incidents, which could correlate with broader societal issues or specific incidents that garnered attention. However, since then, the numbers have generally decreased, demonstrating that the college's initiatives to address these issues may be taking effect.

It is also worth noting that the data excludes certain years, which could limit comprehensive analysis. However, the drop in crime rates, especially in a time where many educational institutions face challenges related to safety, reflects positively on the college's environment and administration.

The overall reduction in criminal incidents, particularly serious offenses like assault and theft, suggests a safer campus experience for students. As colleges and universities often serve as microcosms of society, the reduction of crime aligns with the national trend toward increased awareness and preventive measures surrounding campus safety. Further research and ongoing monitoring will be essential to maintain and improve these favorable conditions.

For more about crime rate calculations, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Mesa Community College include Jimmy Kimmel (Host of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and comedian), Carla Morrison (Mexican indie pop singer and guitarist) and Russell Bowers (Former Speaker of the Arizona House).

More alumni (3, by field)

Politics and law

Arts and media

Sports

  • Larry Harlow 1951–

    Former MLB player for Orioles and Angels

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.