Fullerton College
Out-of-state tuition
$12,379
In-state $1,151
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
19,521
Student-faculty ratio 25:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
33.9%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 39.8%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Fullerton College, located in Fullerton, California, is one of the oldest community colleges in the state, established in 1913. It serves a diverse student population and is known for its commitment to academic excellence and student success. The college offers over 100 degree and certificate programs across various fields, including arts, humanities, sciences, and business, allowing students to pursue their interests and career goals effectively. The college's motto, "Building Futures," reflects its dedication to providing quality education and support services that empower students to thrive in their academic and professional lives.
The campus boasts a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities that foster a sense of community and engagement among students. Facilities such as modern classrooms, laboratories, and a well-equipped library contribute to a conducive learning environment. Additionally, Fullerton College emphasizes the importance of athletics, offering various sports programs that encourage students to maintain a balanced lifestyle. The college has a strong reputation for its transfer programs, with many students successfully transitioning to four-year universities, which speaks to the quality of education and support provided by the faculty and staff. Overall, Fullerton College is a nurturing institution that prioritizes student development and success in a supportive and engaging environment.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Fullerton College
Fullerton College has displayed significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased modestly from $1,138 in 2014 to $1,154 in 2021, while out-of-state tuition saw a more pronounced rise from $6,010 to $7,514 over the same period. This increase in tuition, particularly for out-of-state students, may reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions are adjusting their fees in response to funding pressures and rising operational costs.
Student enrollment numbers illustrate a fluctuating trend, peaking at 25,051 in 2015 before declining to 17,813 by 2022. This decline could be indicative of various factors, including demographic shifts, changes in community needs, or competition from other educational institutions. The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic may have also contributed to this drop in enrollment, as many students opted for online learning or delayed their education.
Graduation rates have shown a positive trend. The percentage of students graduating on time rose from approximately 8.5% in 2014 to about 12.8% in 2023, indicating improvements in student support services and academic advising. Furthermore, the 150% graduation rate also reflected growth, suggesting that more students are completing their degrees within an extended timeframe.
Retention rates, which measure the percentage of students who continue their studies from one year to the next, have experienced fluctuations but demonstrated resilience, with rates holding steady around 70% in recent years. This suggests that despite challenges, a significant majority of students find value in their educational experiences at Fullerton College.
Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of higher education at Fullerton College, where tuition increases, enrollment fluctuations, improving graduation rates, and steady retention reflect both challenges and successes in meeting the needs of the student population.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Los Angeles, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Long Beach International Airport (LGB), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Cynthia Olivo (President)
- Phone
- 7149927000
- City
- Fullerton, California
- Address
- 321 E Chapman Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92832-2095
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Fullerton College
The graduation data from Fullerton College reveals several noteworthy trends regarding the distribution of degrees among various programs. Firstly, the numbers indicate a significant inclination towards associate degrees, particularly in psychology, where 166 students graduated, and in sociology, with 135 graduates. This suggests a strong interest in these fields among students, potentially reflecting current societal needs for mental health professionals and social scientists.
On the other hand, certain technical and engineering programs show minimal graduation rates, with several programs reporting zero graduates. This lack of output in fields such as carpentry, mechanical engineering, and architectural drafting raises concerns about workforce readiness in these crucial sectors. The absence of graduates in these areas could signify a disconnect between educational offerings and labor market demands, particularly as industries increasingly push for skilled labor.
Moreover, the international student graduation rates also stand out, especially in psychology, where two international students earned their degrees. This points to the global appeal of certain programs, with international students seeking education in the United States. However, the overall low numbers of international graduates in other fields suggest potential barriers that may be limiting their participation.
Overall, the data highlights a need for Fullerton College to evaluate its program offerings and marketing strategies, particularly in technical fields, to attract a more diverse student body and better align with job market trends. The college may benefit from fostering partnerships with local industries to enhance internship opportunities and career pathways for students.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |
| Dance, General. | - | |
| Interior Design. | - | |
| Graphic Design. | - | |
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Geography. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | |
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Journalism. | - | |
| Radio and Television. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | |
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - | |
| Apparel and Textiles, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Astronomy. | - | |
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | |
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biomedical Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General. | - | |
| Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Building/Home/Construction Inspection/Inspector. | - | |
| Building/Construction Site Management/Manager. | - | |
| Building Construction Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - | |
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |
| American Sign Language (ASL). | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |
| Microbiology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General. | - | |
| Landscaping and Groundskeeping. | - | |
| Plant Nursery Operations and Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Ethnic Studies. | - | |
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Photographic and Film/Video Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
Students
19,521 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 72.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 11,698
- First-year undergraduates 2,426
- Transfers and others 5,397
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (19,521)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Fullerton College in 2023
In 2023, Fullerton College showcased a diverse student population, with a total of 15,870 students categorized into different classifications. The undergraduate freshmen comprised 3,399 students, with a male to female ratio of approximately 51.7% to 48.3%. This indicates a slight male predominance among new entrants, reflecting broader trends in many colleges where male students often have a marginal edge in initial enrollment.
The undergraduate junior class was the largest group, containing 11,486 students. Interestingly, this demographic exhibited a higher percentage of female students, at 53.8%, compared to 46.2% male students. This shift in gender representation among older students might indicate that women are increasingly pursuing higher education and completing their degrees more consistently than men, a trend observed in various educational studies.
Undergraduate transfer students totaled 1,541, with a similar pattern observed in gender ratios, where females represented 56.8%. This suggests that female students are not only enrolling in college in higher numbers but also successfully transferring from other institutions. Meanwhile, the non-degree seeking students, numbering 1,944, maintained a ratio of 56.9% female, further emphasizing the trend of higher female enrollment.
While the racial and ethnic breakdown of these groups was not fully disclosed, the existing data points to a multifaceted demographic landscape at Fullerton College. The growing participation of diverse groups in higher education is crucial, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about equity and access in educational systems. The data reflects a progressive shift towards inclusivity, making it imperative for institutions to continue supporting all student demographics to foster an equitable learning environment.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Fullerton College
The age composition of students at Fullerton College reveals intriguing insights into the educational demographics of the institution. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the younger age brackets, with the 18-19 age group being the largest cohort, comprising approximately 35.2% of the total student population. This trend aligns with national statistics, where community colleges often attract a younger demographic, primarily recent high school graduates.
As we progress through the age ranges, a gradual decline in enrollment is observed. The 20-21 age group contributes about 22.5% of the total, followed by the 22-24 group at 17.4%. This diminishing trend continues with older age groups, suggesting that the traditional college experience is predominantly embraced by younger individuals. Notably, the enrollment of students aged 30 and above is quite low, with those aged 30-34 at 5.4%, and even less for the 35-39 and 40-49 age brackets, reflecting the challenges that older students may face when considering returning to education.
Interestingly, the data shows no graduate male or female students enrolled, which may indicate a gap in graduate-level offerings or a preference among students to pursue such degrees elsewhere. The total number of female students across all age categories surpasses that of male students, hinting at a broader trend of higher female enrollment in community colleges.
Overall, the age demographics at Fullerton College highlight the institution's role as a primary educational pathway for young adults, while also raising questions about the support structures in place for non-traditional students seeking higher education opportunities.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
180 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Fullerton College
The data on international students at Fullerton College reveals a notable fluctuation in enrollment trends over the years. Starting with a relatively small number of international undergraduates in 2004, the figures peaked in 2010 at 395 students, accounting for 1.76% of the total undergraduate population. This upward trajectory indicates a growing attractiveness of the college for international students, likely influenced by various factors such as program offerings, campus facilities, and the overall reputation of the institution.
However, a significant decline is observed from 2020 onwards. The international student count dropped dramatically to just 222 in 2020, which is a stark contrast to the earlier years. The decline continued, reaching an all-time low of 109 students in 2022, representing only 0.61% of the undergraduate demographic. This trend could be attributed to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education systems, prompting many students to reconsider studying abroad.
The recovery in 2023, with 157 international students, suggests a cautious rebound. Yet, the percentage remains low compared to previous years. This scenario highlights the ongoing challenges that colleges face in attracting international students and emphasizes the need for strategic initiatives to regain their interest. As educational institutions grapple with these changes, understanding the evolving landscape of international education will be crucial for future growth and diversity on campus.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$34,465
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $12,379
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,151
- Room and board
- $22,086
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 106% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 92%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$300M
Expenses$279M
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 | 123 | - |
| Soccer | 42 | 14 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 20 | 11 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 9 |
| Water Polo | 11 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 10 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 8 |
| Golf | - | 11 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 8 |
| Swimming | - | 7 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 99 | - |
| Soccer | 39 | 20 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Volleyball | 20 | 11 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 19 | 11 |
| Basketball | 14 | 12 |
| Water Polo | 10 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Swimming | 4 | 11 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 5 |
| Tennis | 5 | 7 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 10 |
| Golf | - | 7 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 116 | - |
| Soccer | 35 | 29 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 26 | 19 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 13 |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Water Polo | 13 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Swimming | 9 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 2 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 8 |
| Golf | - | 6 |
| Tennis | 6 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 16.3 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Pomona CollegeClaremont · 19.4 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont · 19.6 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Scripps CollegeClaremont · 19.8 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Harvey Mudd CollegeClaremont · 19.9 mi
Liberal Arts #8
-
California Institute of TechnologyPasadena · 21.6 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles · 23.3 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Occidental CollegeLos Angeles · 24.2 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles · 32.9 mi
U.S. News #20
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Fullerton College, along with their details:
-
California State University, Fullerton - Ranked 133, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, catering to a diverse student body.
-
University of California, Irvine - A prestigious institution ranked 33, UC Irvine is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life, making it a popular choice for students from various backgrounds.
-
California State University, Long Beach - With a rank of 105, this university is renowned for its academic excellence and offers a broad spectrum of degree programs.
-
Chapman University - Also ranked 133, Chapman is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts and sciences, providing students with a well-rounded education.
-
Pomona College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Pomona is ranked 4 and is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.
-
Claremont McKenna College - Ranked 11, this liberal arts college specializes in economics and government, offering a unique educational experience.
-
Harvey Mudd College - Known for its engineering and science programs, Harvey Mudd is ranked 16 and provides a challenging curriculum in a collaborative environment.
These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in the region, offering various opportunities for students seeking higher education.
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
Trends in Crime Rates at Fullerton College
The crime rates at Fullerton College have shown a notable downward trajectory from 2013 to 2023. In 2013, the average crime rate was 0.88 incidents per 1,000 students, which has significantly decreased to just 0.11 by 2023. This represents a remarkable reduction of approximately 87.5%, highlighting a positive trend in campus safety over the years.
A closer examination of the specific types of offenses reveals that gun-related arrests, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related arrests have all seen significant declines. For instance, the number of gun-related arrests has consistently decreased over the years, with only a few incidents reported in recent years. The same downward trend can be observed for drug and alcohol arrests, indicating a campus environment increasingly free from substance-related issues.
This decline in crime rates may reflect effective campus safety measures and community awareness programs implemented by the college. Moreover, the efforts of campus security and local law enforcement in fostering a safer learning environment cannot be overlooked.
While the overall decrease is encouraging, it is crucial for the college to continue monitoring and addressing any potential issues proactively. Maintaining open lines of communication with students and ensuring resources are available for those in need will contribute to sustaining this positive trend.
For further insights into crime rate calculations, one can refer to the following resource: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Fullerton College include James Cameron (Canadian filmmaker and explorer), Gwen Stefani (Singer and lead vocalist of No Doubt) and Pat Nixon (First Lady of the United States, 1969–1974).
-
James Cameron 1954–
Canadian filmmaker and explorer
-
Gwen Stefani 1969–
Singer and lead vocalist of No Doubt
-
Pat Nixon 1912–1993
First Lady of the United States, 1969–1974
-
Matthew Lillard 1970–
Actor, known for Hackers
-
Lynn Hill 1961–
Rock climber, first free ascent of The Nose
-
Harry Anderson 1952–2018
Actor and magician, star of Night Court
-
Melissa Villaseñor 1987–
Comedian and Saturday Night Live cast member
-
Ron Johnson 1956–2021
Baseball player and minor league manager
-
Jennifer Hanson 1973–
Country singer, songwriter and record producer
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.