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Public, 2-year

American River College

Sacramento, California · www.arc.losrios.edu

中文

Out-of-state tuition

$12,616

In-state $1,288

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

30,462

Student-faculty ratio 29:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

32.7%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 39.4%

Peer median 33.7%

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

About

American River College (ARC) is a prominent community college located in Sacramento, California. Established in 1955, ARC is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering a diverse learning environment. The college offers a wide range of academic programs, including over 100 certificate and degree options across various fields such as liberal arts, sciences, health, and technology. One of its notable features is the strong emphasis on student support services, which include academic counseling, tutoring, and career services, ensuring that students have the necessary resources to succeed in their educational pursuits and future careers.

The campus of American River College is not only equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, but it also boasts beautiful green spaces that enhance the overall learning atmosphere. The college prides itself on a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that promote student engagement and community involvement. The school’s athletic teams, known as the Beavers, compete in various sports and have a strong tradition of excellence. Furthermore, ARC fosters a strong sense of community among its students, encouraging collaboration and networking that often leads to successful outcomes after graduation, with many students transferring to four-year institutions or entering the workforce well-prepared. Overall, American River College exemplifies a dedication to academic excellence and student empowerment, making it a valuable asset to the Sacramento region.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at American River College

American River College has experienced notable trends in tuition costs, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratio among undergraduate students over recent years. One significant observation is the increase in tuition for out-of-state undergraduate students, which rose from $7,200 in 2014 to $12,808 in 2024. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 78%, indicating a growing financial burden for non-resident students. In contrast, in-state tuition remained relatively stable at $1,104 until 2020, where it slightly increased to $1,288, highlighting a disparity that could affect enrollment diversity.

The student retention rate has shown some fluctuations, with a high of 72.6% in 2016 and a low of 64.1% in 2021, before rebounding to 69.1% in 2023. This inconsistency suggests that various factors, possibly including financial constraints due to rising tuition, may influence students' decisions to continue their education at the institution.

Moreover, graduation rates have seen a promising trend, particularly for students graduating within 150% of the expected time. In 2023, the on-time graduation rate reached 13.99%, and the extended graduation rate was 29.36%. This is a positive sign reflecting the college's efforts to improve student outcomes, possibly through enhanced support services or academic programs.

Finally, the gender ratio among undergraduate students is also noteworthy. The proportion of male students increased significantly from 45.6% in 2013 to 51.8% in 2023, signaling a shift in the demographic makeup of the student body. This change could have implications for campus culture and resources tailored to meet the needs of diverse student populations.

In summary, while American River College faces challenges such as rising tuition and fluctuating retention rates, the improving graduation rates and changing gender dynamics reflect a complex, evolving educational environment. Stakeholders should continue to monitor these trends to ensure equitable access and support for all students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Sacramento, about 9 mi
Nearest international airport
Sacramento International Airport (SMF), about 15 mi
Sacramento, California
Also known as
American River, ARC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Lisa Cardoza (President)
Phone
9164848011
City
Sacramento, California
Address
4700 College Oak Dr, Sacramento, CA 95841-4286

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate2,5426 international (0.2%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
Social Sciences, General
350
Biological and Physical Sciences
298
Business Administration and Management, General
228
Psychology, General
189
Physical Sciences, General
105
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
92
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
74
Economics, General
74
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
65
Child Care Provider/Assistant
64

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from American River College

The graduation data from American River College reveals notable trends in various academic programs for 2023, particularly in the fields of vocational training and humanities. The most significant number of graduates can be observed in the Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration program, which produced 82 graduates, underscoring the ongoing demand for professionals in this field amidst rising public interest in law enforcement and community safety.

Conversely, programs such as Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, as well as Child Care Provider/Assistant, displayed relatively modest graduation numbers, with only 2 and 59 graduates, respectively. This suggests that while there is a recognized need for expertise in health and child care sectors, these programs may not attract as many students, possibly due to perceived career prospects or the rigorous demands of the coursework.

Interestingly, the data indicates zero international students graduating from most programs, including those in high-demand fields. This trend may reflect broader immigration policies or the challenges posed by the ongoing global situation, which has impacted student mobility. The absence of international graduates in many areas could lead to a skills gap in the workforce, particularly in industries that benefit from diverse perspectives and experiences.

Overall, the data emphasizes the importance of aligning educational offerings with market demands while also considering the potential impact of global conditions on student enrollment. Institutions may need to adapt their strategies to attract a more diverse student body and enhance the appeal of underrepresented programs, ultimately fostering a more balanced labor market.

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

Social sciencehas 508 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Social Sciences, General.$52,700
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.-
Geography.-
Geographic Information Science and Cartography.-
International Relations and Affairs.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Businesshas 327 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Retail Management.-
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.$43,078
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.-
Small Business Administration/Management.-
Real Estate.-
Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 321 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biological and Physical Sciences.$39,359
Behavioral Sciences.-
Health professionshas 227 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.-
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).$86,810
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist.$86,810
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$120,729
Psychology has 189 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.-
Physical scienceshas 126 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Physical Sciences, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
Physics, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 113 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Programming/Programmer, General.-
Computer Science.-
Data Modeling/Warehousing and Database Administration.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Computer Support Specialist.-
Homeland security has 92 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician.-
Human science has 82 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General.-
Adult Development and Aging.-
Child Care Provider/Assistant.-
Apparel and Textile Marketing Management.-
Visual and Performing artshas 58 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Dance, General.-
Fashion/Apparel Design.-
Interior Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Culinary has 56 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Funeral Service and Mortuary Science, General.$47,056
Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management/Manager.-
Legal professionshas 43 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.-
Engineeringhas 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Pre-Engineering.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Mathematics, General.-
Biologyhas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Communications technologies has 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Recording Arts Technology/Technician.-
Prepress/Desktop Publishing and Digital Imaging Design.-
Foreign languages has 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Foreign Languages and Literatures, General.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
American Sign Language (ASL).-
Sign Language Interpretation and Translation.-
Mechanic and repair has 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Electrical/Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair Technology/Technician, General.-
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Communication has 34 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Journalism.-
Advertising.-
English has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
English Language and Literature, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies.-
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
History has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
History, General.-
Precision production has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Sheet Metal Technology/Sheetworking.-
Welding Technology/Welder.-
Public administrationhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Human Services, General.-
Agricultural has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General.-
Landscaping and Groundskeeping.-
Engineering technologieshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General.-
Biomedical Technology/Technician.-
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
Natural resources has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Natural Resources/Conservation, General.-
Construction trades has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Carpentry/Carpenter.-
Electrician.-
Building Construction Technology/Technician.-
Plumbing Technology/Plumber.-
Philosophy has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Philosophy.-
Cultural has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Women's Studies.-

Students

30,462 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 51:49 · Freshman retention 71.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (30,462)

White
11,183 · 36.7%
Hispanic
9,459 · 31.1%
Asian
4,269 · 14.0%
Two or more races
1,993 · 6.5%
Black
1,921 · 6.3%
Unknown
1,172 · 3.8%
International
47 · 0.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
10.8%
18–19
18.9%
20–21
13.5%
22–24
12.4%
25 and over
44.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at American River College in 2023

The 2023 data from American River College reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body. The largest group consists of undergraduate freshmen, totaling 3,446 students, with a notable gender distribution of approximately 60.3% males and 39.7% females. This skew towards male students can reflect broader trends in higher education, where certain disciplines attract more male students, such as engineering and technology.

Undergraduate juniors make up the second-largest group with 16,868 students, showing a more balanced gender representation with 52.6% males and 47.4% females. This slight increase in female representation may indicate a positive shift towards gender equity as students progress through their academic careers. Meanwhile, undergraduate transfers and non-degree seeking students show nearly equal gender ratios, indicating a diverse and inclusive environment.

When examining the ethnic breakdown of the student demographics, the data reveals a significant portion of white students across all categories, but exact figures for other ethnic groups are not fully provided. Understanding these demographics can help the college tailor its resources and support programs to better serve its diverse student population.

Overall, the trends observed in American River College's student demographics reflect ongoing challenges and opportunities within higher education, particularly in terms of gender representation and ethnic diversity. As institutions continue to evolve, it remains essential to foster an inclusive environment that addresses these disparities and supports all students in achieving their educational goals.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at American River College

The age composition of students at American River College reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal patterns in higher education. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 2,437 male undergraduates and 2,388 female undergraduates. This aligns with the typical demographic of college students who often transition directly from high school to higher education.

As we progress through the age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in the number of traditional-age students (18-24). For instance, the 22-24 age group comprises 1,926 male undergraduates and 1,619 female undergraduates, showcasing a continued decrease. This is indicative of the challenges many young adults face in completing their education promptly, which can be attributed to various factors including financial constraints and the increasing need for part-time employment.

Interestingly, the data shows a significant number of students aged 25-29, with 2,317 male and 1,873 female undergraduates. This suggests that American River College serves a substantial population of non-traditional students who may be returning to education after taking time off for work or family responsibilities.

Moreover, the age groups of 30-34 and 35-39 also maintain a considerable number of students, indicating that adult education is becoming increasingly prevalent. This trend is significant as it reflects the growing recognition of lifelong learning and the need for upskilling in a rapidly changing job market.

Finally, the presence of students over 50, though smaller, highlights the institution’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for learners of all ages, which is essential in today’s diverse educational landscape. Overall, the data from American River College underscores the evolving nature of higher education demographics, where age diversity is becoming a defining characteristic.

International Students

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

Undergraduates0.2%

47 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.5%2017: 0.4%2018: 0.4%2019: 0.3%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.3%2022: 0.2%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.2%2025: 0.2%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Declining International Student Enrollment at American River College

The data on international students at American River College reveals a concerning trend over the years. Starting from 2004, the college saw a gradual increase in the number of international undergraduate students, peaking in 2009 with 274 students, representing approximately 0.79% of the total undergraduate population. However, from 2010 onward, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of international students, dropping to just 51 students in 2023, which accounts for only 0.19% of the undergraduate population.

This decline could be attributed to several factors, including the global COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted international travel and education. The pandemic has led to stricter visa regulations and health concerns, making it more challenging for international students to pursue their studies in the U.S. Additionally, the increasing competition from institutions in other countries offering attractive programs and better support systems for international students cannot be overlooked.

The decrease in international student enrollment is not only detrimental to the diversity and cultural richness of the campus but may also have financial implications for the institution, as international students often pay higher tuition fees. Colleges and universities must adapt to these changing dynamics by enhancing support services, improving outreach, and ensuring that they remain competitive on a global scale. Addressing these challenges is crucial for American River College to revitalize its international student enrollment and maintain its educational mission in an increasingly interconnected world.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$34,702

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$12,616
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$1,288
Room and board
$22,086
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 70% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 85%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$283M

Government grants and contracts
$222M78.2%
Tuition and fees
$9.7M3.4%
Investment return
$7.1M2.5%
Other
$44.9M15.8%

Expenses$243M

Instruction
$106M43.8%
Student services
$45.5M18.7%
Institutional support
$26.3M10.8%
Academic support
$20.9M8.6%
Public service
$1.4M0.6%
Scholarships
$4K0.0%
Other
$42.4M17.5%

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
$103,398peers $68,588
Instructor
$103,398peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
2025
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football137-
Track and Field (Outdoor)4629
Swimming and Diving (combined)3523
Soccer3123
Water Polo2119
Baseball37-
Basketball1516
Cross Country159
Tennis148
Beach Volleyball-20
Volleyball-17
Softball-14
2024
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football117-
Soccer3324
Track and Field (Outdoor)3813
Swimming and Diving (combined)2219
Baseball31-
Water Polo2110
Basketball1612
Tennis1110
Volleyball-18
Beach Volleyball-14
Cross Country103
Softball-12
2023
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football95-
Soccer3225
Track and Field (Outdoor)4611
Swimming and Diving (combined)2620
Basketball1812
Baseball29-
Water Polo1613
Cross Country178
Tennis149
Softball-17
Volleyball-15
Beach Volleyball-15

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near American River College:

  1. Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford University is renowned for its academic excellence and innovative research.

  2. University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is one of the leading universities in the United States, known for its rigorous programs and vibrant campus life.

  3. University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is recognized for its research initiatives and strong programs in agriculture, environmental science, and health.

  4. University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is a prestigious institution known for its diverse academic offerings and influential alumni.

  5. University of the Pacific - This university is ranked 142nd and is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and personal development.

These institutions represent some of the best educational opportunities in the region, each offering unique programs and a rich campus experience.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
4
Weapons arrests
4
Domestic violence
4
Drug arrests
3
Fondling
2
Aggravated assault
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at American River College

The crime statistics at American River College over the past decade reveal a notable decline in the overall crime rate per 1,000 students. From a peak of 2.04 incidents in 2015, the average has decreased significantly, reaching just 0.29 incidents in 2023. This trend might reflect the effectiveness of campus safety measures and community outreach programs aimed at promoting a safer environment for students.

Looking at specific types of offenses, the number of firearm-related arrests fluctuated, with a high of 4 arrests in 2015. In recent years, however, such incidents have largely diminished, indicating a potential decrease in gun-related crimes on campus. Drug-related arrests showed variability, with a significant number reported in earlier years but tapering off more recently, suggesting a possible shift in student behavior or enforcement.

Additionally, incidents of domestic violence and sexual crimes, although concerning, have not shown dramatic increases, which may reflect a growing awareness and reporting culture among students. The overall decline in crime rates aligns with the national trend in many educational institutions, where increased focus on mental health resources and campus security has become a priority.

Nevertheless, it remains crucial for American River College to continue monitoring these trends and enhancing safety protocols. As crime rates fluctuate, ongoing education, prevention strategies, and community engagement will be vital in maintaining a secure and supportive learning environment for all students. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of American River College include Troy Kotsur (Deaf American actor), Adrian Lamo (Hacker and threat analyst) and Andy Allo (Cameroonian-American actress, guitarist and singer-songwriter).

More alumni (5, by field)

Politics and law

Business

Sports

  • Mike White 1938–2025

    Former MLB outfielder for Houston

Other fields

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.