Cabrillo College
Out-of-state tuition
$9,862
In-state $1,270
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
9,457
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
38.1%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 45.4%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Cabrillo College, located in Aptos, California, is a community college known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering an inclusive environment. Established in 1959, the college serves a diverse student population and offers a wide range of programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year universities. Cabrillo College is particularly recognized for its strong emphasis on student support services, which include academic counseling, tutoring, and career advising, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed academically and professionally.
The college's campus is beautifully situated near the scenic coastline of Northern California, providing students with a serene and inspiring environment to pursue their studies. Cabrillo College also boasts excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that promote both academic and extracurricular engagements. The college encourages participation in various sports and clubs, fostering a vibrant campus culture where students can connect, collaborate, and develop leadership skills. With a strong focus on developing well-rounded individuals, Cabrillo College is dedicated to helping students achieve their educational and career goals while contributing positively to their communities.
Analysis of Key Trends at Cabrillo College
The data from Cabrillo College reveals several significant trends that merit discussion, particularly regarding tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students shows a slight increase from $1,358 in 2014 to $1,270 in 2024, while out-of-state tuition has seen a more dramatic rise from $5,698 to $9,910 during the same period. This substantial increase in out-of-state tuition may deter potential students from other states, impacting overall enrollment figures.
The number of undergraduate students has consistently declined over the years, dropping from 13,666 in 2014 to just 9,149 in 2023. This 33% decrease raises concerns about the college's attractiveness and accessibility, particularly in light of rising tuition costs which can create financial barriers for prospective students.
Moreover, the graduation rates, particularly the timely graduation rate, have shown improvement recently, increasing from approximately 7.3% in 2013 to about 13.6% in 2023. This upward trend is encouraging and suggests that the college may be implementing effective strategies to support student success. However, with graduation rates still relatively low, it indicates a need for continued focus on student support services.
Lastly, retention rates have demonstrated a slight fluctuation but remain around 73.8% in 2023, showcasing a relatively stable commitment from students to continue their education at Cabrillo College. However, retaining students is critical in light of the declining enrollment figures.
Overall, Cabrillo College faces challenges with rising tuition costs and declining student numbers, yet positive trends in graduation rates and stable retention rates suggest that with the right interventions, the college can improve its overall educational environment and outcomes. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the future sustainability and reputation of the institution.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- San Jose, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC), about 25 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Matthew Wetstein (Superintendent/President)
- Phone
- 8314796100
- City
- Aptos, California
- Address
- 6500 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Cabrillo College
The graduation data from Cabrillo College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the distribution of degrees across various fields. Notably, there are no graduates with bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degrees in any of the listed programs, indicating a potential focus on associate degrees, particularly in vocational and technical disciplines. This trend may point to the college's role in providing essential workforce training rather than traditional academic pathways.
The data shows that several programs, especially in the arts, humanities, and certain technical fields, have a significant number of associate degree graduates. For instance, the Spanish Language and Literature program stands out with 26 graduates, highlighting the importance of language education in the current global context. This is particularly relevant as the demand for bilingual professionals continues to rise, especially in diverse regions and industries.
Moreover, the absence of international students graduating from these programs might suggest limited outreach or support for international enrollment in these specific fields. As educational institutions increasingly globalize, it could be beneficial for Cabrillo College to enhance its appeal to international students, particularly in programs that align with global job markets.
Overall, while Cabrillo College serves a crucial role in preparing students for immediate employment through associate degrees, exploring avenues to diversify its offerings and attract a broader student base could enhance its educational impact and relevance in a changing economic 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $44,110 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Geography. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | $58,027 | |
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | - | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | $47,357 | |
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $111,804 | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $107,167 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |
| Dance, General. | - | |
| Graphic Design. | - | |
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Photography. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Astronomy. | - | |
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Corrections. | $42,539 | |
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $42,539 | |
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | - | |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - | |
| Computer Support Specialist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - | |
| Crop Production. | - | |
| Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General. | - | |
| Landscaping and Groundskeeping. | - | |
| Viticulture and Enology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | $27,023 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Building/Construction Site Management/Manager. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Ethnic Studies. | - | |
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | |
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General. | - |
Students
9,457 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 73.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 6,026
- First-year undergraduates 741
- Transfers and others 2,690
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (9,457)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Cabrillo College in 2023
The student demographic data from Cabrillo College in 2023 reveals interesting trends in student composition and gender ratios across various categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 1,439, showing a slight male majority with 51.8% of the students being male and 48.2% female. This balance indicates a growing acceptance of gender diversity in incoming classes, reflecting broader societal changes.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors present a striking gender disparity, with females making up a significant 57.6% of the total 5,269 students. This trend may suggest that more female students are pursuing and continuing their education at this level, potentially influenced by changing societal norms and increased support for women in higher education.
The undergraduate transfer students account for 567 individuals, with a nearly even gender ratio of 47.8% male and 52.2% female. This indicates that transfer pathways are also becoming more inclusive, allowing for a diverse range of students from various educational backgrounds.
Lastly, the non-degree seeking students, numbering 1,874, show a pronounced female majority at 59.9%. This demographic may include those enrolled in skill development, continuing education, or personal enrichment courses, highlighting a trend where women are actively seeking additional qualifications or skills outside traditional degree programs.
Overall, these statistics suggest that Cabrillo College is fostering an inclusive environment for all genders, with a notable increase in female representation in various student categories. This trend aligns with national movements encouraging female participation in higher education, and it will be interesting to see if these patterns continue in future years.
Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at Cabrillo College
The age composition of students at Cabrillo College in 2023 reveals interesting trends in enrollment across different age groups. Notably, the largest demographic is students aged 18-19, comprising a significant portion of the total student body. This suggests that Cabrillo College attracts a substantial number of recent high school graduates, which is consistent with national trends where community colleges serve as a primary entry point for young adults pursuing higher education.
In the age group of 20-21, there is still a considerable number of students, though the figures begin to decline in subsequent age brackets. For students aged 22-24, the enrollment continues to decrease, suggesting that many students may either graduate or transition to four-year institutions. The age groups from 25 to 39 show a moderate representation, indicating that the college also caters to non-traditional students, including those seeking to reskill or upskill later in life.
Interestingly, there is a notable absence of graduate male students across all age categories, which raises questions about the enrollment strategies and support systems in place for graduate studies. Moreover, the data shows that the number of female students consistently surpasses that of male students across all age groups, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where female enrollment often outnumbers male.
The presence of older students, particularly those aged 40-65, highlights the college's role as a continuing education provider. As the workforce evolves, institutions like Cabrillo College are pivotal in offering educational opportunities to individuals at various life stages. This data underscores the importance of adapting educational programs to meet the needs of a diverse student population, ultimately fostering a more inclusive academic environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
54 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Cabrillo College
The data on international student enrollment at Cabrillo College reveals a significant decline over the years, particularly from 2004 to 2023. In 2004, the number of international undergraduates was 99, accounting for 0.70% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage gradually decreased, reaching only 0.46% in 2022 and remaining steady in 2023 with 42 international students.
This downward trend may reflect broader changes in global education dynamics, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education. Many institutions faced challenges in attracting foreign students during this period, leading to reduced enrollment numbers.
Additionally, the shifting political landscape and visa regulations in the U.S. could also contribute to this decline. Potential students might be deterred by the complexities of obtaining student visas or concerns about the overall political climate in the country.
The decline in the percentage of international students may impact the diversity and cultural exchange that institutions like Cabrillo College offer. International students play a vital role in enriching campus life and fostering global perspectives among domestic students.
As Cabrillo College navigates these challenges, it may be beneficial to implement strategies aimed at enhancing its appeal to prospective international students. This could include expanding scholarship opportunities, improving support services, and actively promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. Overall, the data highlights the need for ongoing attention to international student recruitment and retention in the evolving landscape of higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$35,143
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $9,862
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,270
- Room and board
- $25,281
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 73% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 110%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$177M
Expenses$164M
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 NCAA · EADA
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 51 | - |
| Soccer | 31 | 17 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Tennis | 5 | 7 |
| Water Polo | 11 | - |
| Swimming | 5 | 3 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 55 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 21 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 10 |
| Water Polo | 10 | 16 |
| Tennis | 9 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Swimming | 6 | 5 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 10 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 55 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | 21 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | - |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Water Polo | 14 | - |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Swimming | 4 | 4 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-Santa CruzSanta Cruz · 7.4 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 24.8 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 33.2 mi
U.S. News #5
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 59.0 mi
U.S. News #227
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 61.6 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 63.7 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of the PacificStockton · 76.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 86.6 mi
U.S. News #69
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 107.5 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Cabrillo College:
-
Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford is renowned for its academic excellence and innovation. It is located in Stanford, California, and is one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
-
University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is celebrated for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. It is a leading research university located in Berkeley, California.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is known for its strong programs across various disciplines and a diverse student body. It is situated in Los Angeles, California.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is recognized for its focus on environmental science, agriculture, and veterinary medicine. The campus is located in Davis, California.
-
University of California-Santa Barbara - With a rank of 35, UCSB is known for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on research and education in the sciences and humanities.
-
California Institute of Technology - Ranked 7th, Caltech is a private research university in Pasadena, California, known for its engineering and physical science programs.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
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 Cabrillo College
The crime data from Cabrillo College over the years presents a fluctuating landscape of campus safety. Notably, the highest crime rate was recorded in 2019, with a rate of 2.51 per 1,000 students, which translates to a significant uptick in incidents compared to previous years. This surge may raise concerns among students and faculty about the underlying factors contributing to such an increase, perhaps reflecting broader societal issues or specific incidents that may have occurred within the college community.
Interestingly, the data shows a sharp decline in crime rates in 2023, dropping to just 0.11 per 1,000 students. This drastic decrease could indicate successful interventions or improved safety measures implemented by the college, or possibly a change in reporting practices as the campus adjusts post-pandemic.
Arrests related to gun possession and drug-related offenses seem to be prominent in the overall crime figures. The presence of these crimes on campus highlights the importance of ongoing educational programs and support systems aimed at fostering a safer environment and promoting responsible behavior among students.
Furthermore, the trends observed could serve as a reminder of the necessity for continuous evaluation and adaptation of campus safety policies to effectively address the evolving nature of crime in educational institutions. As Cabrillo College navigates these changes, it is crucial to maintain transparency with the student body regarding crime rates and the measures taken to ensure their safety, fostering a sense of community and trust.
For reference on how crime rates are calculated, please visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Cabrillo College include Edmund Kemper (American serial killer), Denise Crosby (Actress known for Tasha Yar in Star Trek: TNG) and Camryn Manheim (Actress known for The Practice).
-
Edmund Kemper 1948–
American serial killer
-
Denise Crosby 1957–
Actress known for Tasha Yar in Star Trek: TNG
-
Camryn Manheim 1961–
Actress known for The Practice
-
Gary Goldman 1944–
Animated film director and producer
-
Sharon Jordan 1960–
Actress in The Suite Life of Zack & Cody
-
John Baker Saunders 1954–1999
Bassist and founding member of Mad Season
-
Walmer Martinez 1998–
Soccer player for El Salvador national team
-
Wendy Rose 1948–
Poet, painter and anthropologist
-
Bruce McPherson 1944–
27th California Secretary of State
More alumni (6, by field)
Arts and media
-
Ralph Peduto 1942–2014
Actor, playwright and director
-
Scott Williams 1956–2024
Artist best known for stencil paintings
Sports
-
Mark Eichhorn 1960–
Former MLB pitcher, 1986 AL Rookie Pitcher of the Year
-
Brendon Ayanbadejo 1976–
Former NFL and CFL linebacker
-
Obafemi Ayanbadejo 1975–
Former NFL fullback
-
Reggie Stephens 1975–
Former NFL cornerback, played at Rutgers
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.