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Public, 2-year

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas

Helena, Arkansas · www.pccua.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$4,550

In-state $3,800

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

1,199

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

51.6%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 60.5%

Peer median 33.7%

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

About

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA) is a vital institution in the Arkansas higher education landscape, known for its commitment to providing accessible and quality education. Located in the heart of Phillips County, the college serves a diverse student population and emphasizes community engagement. The college's mission is to promote academic excellence, workforce development, and lifelong learning, which is reflected in its comprehensive range of programs and courses designed to meet the demands of the local job market. PCCUA offers various associate degree programs and certificate options in fields such as healthcare, technology, and business, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers or further education.

PCCUA is not only distinguished by its academic offerings but also by its supportive and inclusive campus culture. The college prides itself on fostering a welcoming environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. With dedicated faculty members who prioritize student success, PCCUA provides personalized attention and mentorship to help students achieve their goals. The college also emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities, offering various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage student involvement and community spirit. Recently, PCCUA has made headlines for its innovative partnerships with local businesses and organizations, enhancing workforce readiness and providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities. Overall, Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas stands as a pillar of education and community development, dedicated to shaping the future of its students and the region.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics

The educational landscape at Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas reveals several significant trends over the years, especially in tuition fees, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratios.

Firstly, the tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have exhibited a steady increase. For instance, in-state tuition rose from $2,735 in 2014 to $3,650 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 33.5%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition escalated from $4,055 to $5,270 during the same period, an increase of about 30%. This continuous rise in tuition may pose challenges for prospective students, particularly those from lower-income families, and may contribute to a decline in enrollment numbers, as seen in the overall drop from 2,029 students in 2014 to just 1,234 in 2023.

Student retention rates have shown a positive trend, increasing from 54.4% in 2013 to 76.1% in 2023. This remarkable growth suggests that more students are choosing to continue their studies at the college, potentially reflecting improved support services or academic programs that enhance student engagement.

Another critical metric is the graduation rates, which have fluctuated but generally trended upwards, particularly the 100% graduation rate rising from 16.9% in 2013 to 31.0% in 2023. This improvement could indicate that the college is better preparing its students for timely graduation, which is essential for reducing the financial burden of extended education.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently outnumbering male students, reaching about 63.5% female and 36.5% male in 2023. This trend aligns with national observations in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

Overall, while Phillips Community College faces challenges such as rising tuition and declining enrollment, the improvements in retention and graduation rates showcase the institution's commitment to fostering a supportive academic environment.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Memphis, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 50 mi
Helena, Arkansas
Also known as
Phillips County Community College PCCUA
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Keith Pinchback (Chancellor)
Phone
8703386474
City
Helena, Arkansas
Address
1000 Campus Drive, Helena, AR 72342-0785

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1210 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
62
Social Work
11
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
10
Computer and Information Sciences, General
9
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
7
Business/Commerce, General
6
Platemaker/Imager
3
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
3
Construction Trades, General
3
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician
3

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Phillips Community College

The graduation data from Phillips Community College for 2023 reveals some interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program stands out with a significant number of associate degree graduates, totaling 72, which accounts for approximately 40% of all associate degree graduates in the data set. This indicates a strong interest in general education, which is vital for developing critical thinking and communication skills.

In the health sector, Registered Nursing stands out with 14 graduates, reflecting the ongoing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This aligns with national trends showing an increasing focus on healthcare education and workforce readiness. The Behavioral Aspects of Health program also produced 4 graduates, highlighting a growing awareness of mental health and its importance in overall well-being.

The Criminal Justice sector, while having a few graduates, indicates a steady interest in law enforcement and safety studies, with 3 graduates in Criminal Justice/Safety Studies and an additional 3 in Law Enforcement Administration. This interest coincides with national discussions on public safety and criminal justice reform.

Interestingly, there are no graduates from bachelor's, master's, or doctoral programs in the data provided, suggesting that Phillips Community College primarily focuses on associate degrees and vocational training. This could reflect the institution's mission to provide accessible education that meets local workforce needs, catering to students looking to enter the job market quickly with practical skills.

Overall, the data illustrates a diverse range of interests among graduates, with particular emphasis on liberal arts, health, and criminal justice, which collectively respond to both local and national educational and employment trends.

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 62 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$28,974
Health professionshas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Public administrationhas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Social Work.-
Computer and information sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Businesshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.-
Homeland security has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Communications technologies has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Platemaker/Imager.-
Educationhas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Construction trades has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Construction Trades, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-

Students

1,199 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 65.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,199)

Black
602 · 50.2%
White
515 · 43.0%
Hispanic
45 · 3.8%
Two or more races
14 · 1.2%
Unknown
14 · 1.2%
Asian
3 · 0.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
42.0%
18–19
22.4%
20–21
9.1%
22–24
6.8%
25 and over
19.7%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Phillips Community College

The student demographics at Phillips Community College for the year 2023 reveal important insights into the composition of the student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 143, with a notable gender ratio of 38.5% male and 61.5% female students. This indicates a higher enrollment of female students in this category, reflecting a broader trend observed in many higher education institutions where women often outnumber men in undergraduate programs.

In contrast, the undergraduate juniors comprise a significantly larger group, totaling 435 students, but with a lower female representation at 73.6% compared to 26.4% male. The gender disparity continues among undergraduate transfer students, where the 38 students enrolled also demonstrate a predominance of female students at 63.2%.

Additionally, the overall diversity of the student body can be examined through the subcategories of race and ethnicity. For instance, within the undergraduate freshmen group, 61 students identify as White, which is about 42.7% of that cohort, suggesting that diversity remains a pertinent issue. The trend of underrepresented groups in higher education highlights the ongoing need for initiatives aimed at improving inclusivity and support for minority students.

The overall enrollment figures for non-degree students, which total 618, further underscore the importance of community colleges in providing education opportunities for a diverse array of individuals. With 43.2% male and 56.8% female enrollment, the patterns of gender distribution appear to be consistent across student categories.

In summary, Phillips Community College's 2023 student demographics illustrate a vibrant, predominantly female student population, with significant opportunities for enhancing diversity and inclusion among various racial and ethnic groups. Addressing these disparities will be crucial for fostering a more equitable educational environment.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Phillips Community College

The age composition of students at Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas reveals intriguing trends in the demographics of the student body. A significant proportion of students, specifically 41.3%, are under 18 years old, indicating a strong presence of traditional-age students who may be enrolling directly from high school. This trend aligns with national observations of community colleges serving as accessible educational pathways for younger learners.

In the 18-19 age bracket, there are 33 male and 64 female undergraduate students, suggesting a burgeoning interest among young women in higher education, as they outnumber their male counterparts in this category. This pattern continues across older age groups, with females consistently comprising a larger segment of the student population. For instance, in the 25-29 age group, there are 51 female students compared to only 16 male students, reflecting the increasing participation of women in higher education.

The data also highlights a concerning underrepresentation of graduate students, as there are no graduate male or female students enrolled at this institution. This may suggest a potential gap in advanced educational offerings or a need for more robust support systems to encourage students to pursue graduate-level studies.

Additionally, the presence of older students, particularly those aged 40-49 and 50-64, indicates that community colleges continue to serve as vital educational resources for non-traditional students seeking to enhance their skills or change their career paths. Overall, the student age composition at Phillips Community College exemplifies the evolving landscape of higher education, marked by increasing female enrollment and diverse age representation.

International Students

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

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Commentary on International Student Data at Phillips Community College

The analysis of international student enrollment at Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas reveals a critical aspect of the institution’s diversity and global engagement. While the specific figures are not provided, the presence of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs is indicative of the college's appeal to a global audience.

International students enrich the academic environment by bringing diverse perspectives, fostering cultural exchange, and enhancing the learning experience for all students. This is particularly significant in today’s interconnected world, where cross-cultural competencies are increasingly valued in the job market. Colleges that prioritize international student enrollment often benefit from increased tuition revenue and a more vibrant campus life.

Moreover, the trends in international student enrollment can reflect broader geopolitical dynamics and economic conditions. Recent years have seen fluctuations due to factors such as changes in visa policies, global health crises, and economic uncertainties. Institutions that adapt to these changes, providing robust support systems for international students, tend to maintain or grow their enrollment numbers.

It's essential for Phillips Community College to continue promoting its programs to attract a diverse student body. Increased outreach, partnerships with foreign educational institutions, and tailored support services can further enhance its appeal. Ultimately, fostering an inclusive environment for international students not only enriches the college community but also prepares all students to thrive in a globalized society.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$9,950

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$4,550
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$3,800
Room and board
$5,400
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 5% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$23.4M

Government grants and contracts
$20.6M88.2%
Tuition and fees
$973K4.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$342K1.5%
Gifts and private grants
$304K1.3%
Investment return
$243K1.0%
Sales and services of educational activities
$133K0.6%
Other
$763K3.3%

Expenses$21.4M

Instruction
$7.6M35.7%
Student services
$3.5M16.3%
Institutional support
$3.4M15.9%
Scholarships
$2.5M11.6%
Academic support
$1.9M9.0%
Public service
$1.0M4.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$67K0.3%
Other
$1.3M6.3%

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
$49,025peers $68,588
Instructor
$49,025peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
2025
NJCAA Division II MENWOMEN
Basketball137

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas:

  1. Rhodes College - Ranked 56th, Rhodes College is a private liberal arts college located in Memphis, Tennessee. It is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and has a beautiful campus that encourages a close-knit community.

  2. University of Memphis - Ranked 269th, the University of Memphis offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is recognized for its research initiatives and urban campus, providing students with various opportunities for engagement and development.

  3. University of Mississippi - With a rank of 163, the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, is known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs, particularly in the fields of law, business, and education.

  4. Mississippi State University - Ranked 216th, Mississippi State University is a public research university that offers a diverse range of programs and is particularly known for its engineering and agricultural sciences.

  5. Vanderbilt University - A highly prestigious institution, Vanderbilt University is ranked 18th. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, it is renowned for its rigorous academics, strong research programs, and vibrant student life.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic environment of the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Phillips Community College

The crime data from Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas reveals a noteworthy trend in campus safety over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of recorded crimes per 1000 students remained exceptionally low, with only a few incidents reported in the years 2015 to 2018. Notably, these incidents were limited to arrests for carrying firearms, indicating a potential concern for gun-related activities, albeit at a very minimal level.

The years 2019 through 2023 show a remarkable drop in crime rates, with zero reported incidents. This suggests that the college has either effectively implemented preventive measures or that the campus environment has remained consistently safe. Such a trend is encouraging for prospective students and their families, enhancing the institution's reputation as a secure place for education.

Moreover, the lack of incidents related to drugs, alcohol, or violence against individuals further emphasizes the effectiveness of community initiatives aimed at promoting safety and well-being. It may also reflect broader societal trends towards reduced crime rates in educational settings, a point underscored by ongoing national discussions about campus safety.

In conclusion, Phillips Community College appears to maintain a commendable track record in terms of safety, which is crucial for fostering a conducive learning environment. Continued efforts to engage students in safety programs and promote awareness could further sustain this positive trend. For a detailed understanding of crime rate calculations, one can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.