East Los Angeles College
Out-of-state tuition
$10,572
In-state $1,238
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
33,677
Student-faculty ratio 33:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
33.3%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 39.7%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
East Los Angeles College (ELAC) is a vibrant community college located in the heart of East Los Angeles, California. Established in 1945, ELAC has grown to become one of the largest community colleges in the state, serving a diverse student population with a strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. The college offers a wide range of programs, including associate degrees, vocational training, and transfer opportunities to four-year universities. ELAC boasts a robust selection of over 100 academic programs, catering to various fields such as arts, sciences, business, and health, which prepares students for both immediate employment and further education.
The college's mission statement emphasizes the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that promotes equity and student success. ELAC encourages active participation in campus life, offering numerous clubs, organizations, and cultural events that reflect the rich heritage of the surrounding community. The college also features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that enhance the learning experience. In recent years, ELAC has gained recognition for its strong support services, which include tutoring, counseling, and career guidance, helping students to secure successful pathways after graduation. With a strong emphasis on community involvement and student-centered initiatives, East Los Angeles College continues to be a cornerstone of educational opportunity in the region.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at East Los Angeles College
East Los Angeles College has exhibited several significant trends in its data over recent years, particularly concerning tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a slight increase from $1,221 in 2014 to $1,238 in 2023, while out-of-state undergraduate tuition has surged from $6,161 to $9,870 over the same period. This substantial rise in out-of-state tuition (approximately 60%) may deter potential students from outside California, raising concerns about accessibility and equity in higher education.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a marked decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 37,055 in 2013 to 27,855 in 2023. This decline could be indicative of broader trends in community college enrollment, potentially influenced by factors such as the rising costs of education, shifts in job market demand, or changes in student demographics and preferences.
Graduation rates also present an interesting narrative. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at 23.06% in 2021 but has since decreased to 16.35% in 2023. Similarly, the 150% graduation rate has seen fluctuations, suggesting challenges in student completion and success. This trend raises important questions about the support systems in place for students, particularly as financial pressures mount.
Lastly, the retention rate has varied slightly but remains crucial for understanding student engagement. The rate decreased from 75.33% in 2013 to 67.55% in 2023. This decline indicates that fewer students are returning for their subsequent years, which could be a sign of dissatisfaction with the college experience or external challenges faced by students.
Overall, these trends highlight the complexities facing East Los Angeles College as it navigates financial pressures and student outcomes, emphasizing the need for targeted strategies to improve retention and graduation rates while addressing the rising costs of education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Los Angeles, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Long Beach International Airport (LGB), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Monte Perez (Interim President)
- Phone
- 3232658650
- City
- Monterey Park, California
- Address
- 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Monterey Park, CA 91754-6099
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from East Los Angeles College in 2023
The graduation data from East Los Angeles College reveals significant trends in various academic disciplines. Notably, the Environmental Studies program had a modest output, with 2 graduates receiving an associate degree. This reflects a growing interest in environmental issues, which is increasingly relevant in today's context of climate change and sustainability discussions.
In the realm of technical education, the Architectural Technology program saw 7 graduates, underscoring the demand for skilled professionals in construction and design, especially as urban development continues to accelerate. The Fire Prevention and Safety Technology program stands out with 20 graduates, highlighting the crucial role of safety professionals in public service sectors.
However, it is striking to note that several programs, particularly in criminal justice and forensic science, reported no graduates for higher degrees such as bachelor, master, or doctorate. This could indicate either a lack of interest in pursuing advanced degrees in these fields or possibly a need for more robust program offerings to attract students.
Additionally, the data shows that there were no international students graduating in any of the recorded programs. This may reflect broader trends in higher education, where international enrollment has fluctuated due to various global factors, including the pandemic and changing immigration policies. Overall, the data suggests a focus on foundational education, with a clear opportunity for growth in attracting students to advanced degrees and international participation.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Geography. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $38,094 | |
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $51,225 | |
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $51,225 | |
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | |
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - | |
| Real Estate. | - | |
| Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $35,355 | |
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $35,355 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | |
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | $30,647 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |
| Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |
| Graphic Design. | - | |
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - | |
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |
| Sign Language Interpretation and Translation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Ethnic Studies. | - | |
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Installation and Repair Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Photographic and Film/Video Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
33,677 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 64.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 20,738
- First-year undergraduates 1,709
- Transfers and others 11,230
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (33,677)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Demographic Insights of East Los Angeles College Students
The 2023 enrollment data from East Los Angeles College provides valuable insights into the student demographics, showcasing a diverse student body with varying gender ratios across classifications. The undergraduate freshmen, with a total of 3,183 students, exhibit a near-equal gender distribution, with males representing 50.5% and females 49.5%. This balance indicates a welcoming environment for new students, which is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic community.
The undergraduate juniors, however, show a slight male predominance, with 52.1% being male and 47.9% female among 17,974 students. This shift may reflect broader societal trends in higher education enrollment, where certain fields of study tend to attract more male students. On the other hand, the undergraduate transfer students present a stark contrast, with a significant majority of 62.2% being female and only 37.8% male among 2,342 students. This gender disparity could point to the increasing engagement of women in higher education and their pursuit of advanced degrees or specialized fields.
The overall student body also includes a significant number of graduate students, totaling 4,356, with a gender balance skewed towards females at 59.5%. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that women are increasingly pursuing graduate education, often outnumbering men in various programs.
In terms of ethnic diversity, the data indicates a mixed composition of students, reflecting the multicultural landscape of Los Angeles. Though specific numbers for ethnic breakdowns were not fully available, the presence of various ethnic groups is essential for enriching the academic experience and preparing students for a global workforce. This demographic information highlights the importance of understanding student needs and fostering an environment that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in educational institutions.
Age Demographics at East Los Angeles College in 2023
The age composition of students at East Los Angeles College reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal patterns. Notably, the largest demographic group among students under 18 years comprises 1271 male and 1805 female students, indicating a strong representation of younger students. This trend continues into the 18-19 age bracket, where male students number 2169 and female students 2368, suggesting that the college appeals significantly to this youthful demographic.
As we analyze older age categories, a shift occurs. The number of students decreases significantly in the 20-21 and 22-24 age ranges, with male students dropping to 1446 and 1377, respectively, while female students also see a decline. This drop may align with national trends where young adults face challenges transitioning from high school to college, especially in a competitive job market that often requires experience over education.
Interestingly, the age group of 40-49 years shows a substantial number of male students at 1917, alongside 1298 female students. This could reflect an increasing trend of adult learners returning to education, likely due to career changes or the pursuit of further qualifications in a rapidly evolving job landscape.
Moreover, the data on students aged 50 and above, while limited with 107 male and 92 female students, indicates that lifelong learning is becoming more prevalent. This aligns with a growing recognition of the importance of education at all stages of life, driven by changing job markets and personal aspirations.
In summary, East Los Angeles College serves a diverse age range of students, with a notable emphasis on young adults while also catering to the needs and aspirations of older learners. This demographic diversity enriches the college environment and reflects broader educational trends in society.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
195 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at East Los Angeles College
The data reflecting the international student enrollment at East Los Angeles College over the years indicates a fluctuating yet overall declining trend. In 2004, the college welcomed 378 international undergraduates, accounting for 1.70% of the total undergraduate population. However, the percentage of international students has generally decreased over the years, reaching a low of 0.51% in 2023, with only 141 international students enrolled.
Notably, the peak of international enrollment occurred around 2010, with 709 students, marking a significant increase in both absolute numbers and as a percentage (1.99%). Yet, following that year, there was a gradual decline, particularly notable during the years 2020 to 2023, likely influenced by the global pandemic and its impact on international travel and education.
This downward trend raises questions about the factors influencing international student choices, including potential shifts in visa policies, economic conditions, and the availability of remote learning options. The recent decline in enrollment could have long-term implications for the college's diversity and cultural exchange, which are vital components of an enriching educational environment.
As institutions like East Los Angeles College navigate post-pandemic recovery, it will be essential to address the challenges that international students face and seek effective strategies to attract and support this demographic in the future.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$35,979
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $10,572
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,238
- Room and board
- $25,407
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 55% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 112%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$291M
Expenses$294M
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 | 93 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 25 |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Wrestling | 19 | 17 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 21 | 12 |
| Basketball | 17 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 12 |
| Swimming | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Water Polo | - | 13 |
| Badminton | - | 9 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 112 | - |
| Soccer | 35 | 28 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Wrestling | 32 | 18 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 24 | 12 |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Water Polo | - | 18 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Swimming | - | 16 |
| Badminton | - | 8 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 101 | - |
| Soccer | 33 | 20 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 24 | 9 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Wrestling | 20 | 10 |
| Swimming | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Water Polo | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 5 |
| Badminton | - | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 6.8 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 7.0 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 7.9 mi
U.S. News #27
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 16.9 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 25.2 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 25.4 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 25.4 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 25.5 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 32.3 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near East Los Angeles College:
-
California Institute of Technology (加州理工学院) - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Caltech is renowned for its rigorous science and engineering programs.
-
University of Southern California (南加州大学) - Holding the 28th spot, USC is a prestigious private research university known for its strong programs in business, cinema, and law.
-
University of California-Los Angeles (加州大学洛杉矶分校) - Ranked 15th, UCLA is a leading public research university with a diverse range of programs and a strong emphasis on research.
-
Loyola Marymount University (洛约拉马利蒙特大学) - With a ranking of 93, LMU is a private Jesuit university offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Harvey Mudd College (哈维穆德学院) - Ranked 16th, Harvey Mudd is a top liberal arts college specializing in science, engineering, and mathematics.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are highly 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
Crime Trends at East Los Angeles College
The crime data from East Los Angeles College reveals notable trends in campus safety over the past decade. Overall, the average crime rate per 1000 students shows fluctuations, with a peak in 2014 at 0.85 and a low in 2015 at 0.28. This variation indicates a changing environment regarding campus safety and student behavior.
A significant concern is the number of arrests related to gun possession, which, while not consistently high, peaked in 2017 with three incidents recorded on campus. In contrast, drug-related arrests appear to be more sporadic, indicating that substance use issues may not be as pervasive as one might assume. The data suggests that the college has maintained a relatively stable environment with a gradual decline in the overall crime rate, particularly noted between 2019 and 2021, where incidents dropped significantly from 17 to 14.
Moreover, domestic violence and stalking incidents remained low, which is encouraging for student safety. However, the presence of theft and robbery incidents cannot be overlooked, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures on campus.
As we analyze these trends, it is essential for the college administration to remain proactive in implementing safety programs and fostering a community of awareness. The data underscores the importance of consistent monitoring and community engagement to promote a secure educational environment. More information on calculating crime rates can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of East Los Angeles College include Edward James Olmos (Actor known for Blade Runner and Battlestar Galactica), Raymond Cruz (Actor in The Closer and Breaking Bad) and Antonio Villaraigosa (Mayor of Los Angeles from 2005 to 2013).
-
Edward James Olmos 1947–
Actor known for Blade Runner and Battlestar Galactica
-
Raymond Cruz 1961–
Actor in The Closer and Breaking Bad
-
Antonio Villaraigosa 1953–
Mayor of Los Angeles from 2005 to 2013
-
Kenneth Medwood 1987–
Belizean 400 metres hurdler
-
Laura Aguilar 1959–2018
American photographer
-
Rubén Salazar 1928–1970
Los Angeles Times reporter and civil rights activist
-
Esteban Edward Torres 1930–2022
US Representative from California
-
Luis J. Rodriguez 1954–
Poet, novelist and Los Angeles Poet Laureate
-
Ben Davidson 1940–2012
Football defensive end for the Oakland Raiders
More alumni (11, by field)
Politics and law
-
Art Torres 1946–
Former California state legislator
-
Stuart Spencer 1927–2025
Republican political consultant who managed Reagan's campaigns
-
Gloria Molina 1948–2023
First Latina elected to the California State Assembly
-
Julian Nava 1927–2022
Educator and former US Ambassador to Mexico
-
Lee Baca 1942–
Former Los Angeles County Sheriff
-
Bob Pacheco 1934–
Former California Assembly member and attorney
Arts and media
-
Anthony Hernandez 1947–
Photographer known for street and built-environment images
Sports
-
Clarence Davis 1949–
Former Oakland Raiders running back
-
Rex Kalamian 1968–
NBA assistant coach and Armenia national team head coach
-
Ethan Katz 1983–
Pitching coach for the Colorado Rockies
Other fields
-
Alexander Salazar 1949–
Former auxiliary bishop of Los Angeles
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.