Grossmont College
Out-of-state tuition
$10,628
In-state $1,332
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
14,440
Student-faculty ratio 24:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
31.6%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 38.9%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Grossmont College, located in El Cajon, California, is a vibrant community college that offers a wide range of educational opportunities for students. Established in 1961, the college is part of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District and has grown to become a significant institution for higher education in the region. One of the key features of Grossmont College is its commitment to student success and community engagement. The college serves a diverse student population, providing numerous programs and services designed to support academic achievement and personal development. With a strong emphasis on transfer programs, many students successfully transition to four-year universities, making Grossmont an excellent stepping stone for those aiming for advanced degrees.
The campus itself is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that enhance the learning experience. Grossmont College is known for its supportive faculty and staff, who are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and encouraging environment. The college's motto, "Learning for a Lifetime," reflects its mission to empower students through education, promoting lifelong learning and personal growth. Additionally, the college boasts a rich array of extracurricular activities, including athletic programs and clubs that encourage students to engage socially and develop leadership skills. With a focus on academic excellence and community involvement, Grossmont College continues to thrive and positively impact the lives of its students and the surrounding community.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Grossmont College
The data from Grossmont College reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates that reflect the challenges faced by higher education institutions today.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, fluctuating slightly from $1,386 in 2014 to $1,332 in 2023. However, the out-of-state tuition has seen a more pronounced increase, particularly from $6,896 in 2014 to $10,628 in 2024. This significant rise may deter potential students from outside the state, reflecting a growing trend of escalating costs associated with higher education across the United States.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a noticeable decline over the years, dropping from 18,618 in 2014 to 12,862 in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including rising tuition costs, changing demographics, and possibly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to broader shifts in educational attainment and enrollment patterns.
Graduation rates have shown a mixed trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates was alarmingly low, starting at about 11.4% in 2013 and hovering around 10.6% by 2023. However, the extended graduation rate (150% of the normal time) has seen a slight improvement, reaching around 29.6% in 2023. This indicates that while more students are taking longer to graduate, the institution may be working to support those who remain enrolled.
Finally, student retention rates have fluctuated but showed an encouraging uptick, increasing from around 68.4% in 2013 to approximately 71.1% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college is becoming more effective at supporting students throughout their educational journeys, which is critical for enhancing graduation outcomes.
Overall, while Grossmont College faces challenges in terms of rising tuition and declining enrollment, there are positive signs in retention and an effort to support students in completing their degrees, which are essential for their future success in a competitive job market.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- San Diego, about 8 mi
- Nearest international airport
- San Diego International Airport (SAN), about 10 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Pamela Luster (Interim President)
- Phone
- 6196447000
- City
- El Cajon, California
- Address
- 8800 Grossmont College Dr, El Cajon, CA 92020-1799
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Grossmont College in 2023
The data from Grossmont College reveals notable trends in degree attainment across various fields. A significant observation is the absence of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees awarded in the 2023 academic year, indicating a strong emphasis on associate degrees, particularly in the humanities and performing arts.
The highest number of associate degrees was conferred in psychology, with 115 graduates, highlighting the growing interest in mental health and wellness, a trend that resonates with the increasing societal focus on psychological well-being. In the realm of performing arts, the drama and theatre arts program produced 11 graduates, while photography accounted for 5, showcasing a modest yet dedicated commitment to these creative fields despite the challenges posed by the pandemic on the arts sector.
It's also notable that the international student representation in associate degrees remains relatively low, with only a handful of graduates in child care and support services management and history. This may reflect the broader challenges faced by international students in pursuing vocational training in the U.S., as they navigate immigration policies and financial constraints.
Overall, Grossmont College's data underscores a robust commitment to associate degree programs while indicating potential areas for growth in attracting international students and expanding bachelor’s degree offerings. This could be particularly relevant as colleges adapt to the evolving educational landscape and workforce demands in a post-pandemic world.
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. | - | |
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Geography. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | - | |
| Cardiovascular Technology/Technologist. | $87,725 | |
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | $87,725 | |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $63,779 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - | |
| Computer Science. | - | |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Corrections. | - | |
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - | |
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Journalism. | - | |
| Radio and Television. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese Language and Literature. | - | |
| Russian Language and Literature. | - | |
| German Language and Literature. | - | |
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |
| Arabic Language and Literature. | - | |
| American Sign Language (ASL). | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care and Support Services Management. | - | |
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
14,440 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 71.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 8,476
- First-year undergraduates 1,423
- Transfers and others 4,541
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (14,440)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Grossmont College in 2023
The student body at Grossmont College in 2023 presents an interesting demographic landscape, particularly regarding gender distribution and diversity among different student classifications. The data reveals that new undergraduate students, comprising 2,350 individuals, have a notably balanced gender ratio with approximately 47.7% male and 52.3% female students. This slight female majority is consistent with trends seen in many colleges today, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.
In contrast, the continuing undergraduate students, numbering 7,659, exhibit a more pronounced gender disparity with only 39.8% male representation compared to 60.2% female. This trend raises questions about the retention and engagement of male students at Grossmont College, a challenge that many educational institutions face nationwide.
Transfer students, although a smaller group with 985 members, reflect a similar gender dynamic, with 39.7% male and 60.3% female. The consistent underrepresentation of male students across these categories could indicate broader societal issues affecting male educational attainment or interest in higher education.
Furthermore, the ethnic breakdown of students, though not fully detailed in the available data, highlights the college's commitment to diversity. The presence of various ethnic groups, including White, Asian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, African-American, and international students, suggests a rich cultural environment conducive to learning and growth. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Grossmont College appears to be a microcosm of broader trends reflecting demographic shifts and gender imbalances in the academic realm. Addressing these disparities will be crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive educational experience for all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Grossmont College
The age composition of students at Grossmont College reveals significant insights into the demographics of its student body for 2023. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 38% of the total student population, which is reflective of many traditional college attendees. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that younger students are increasingly enrolling in higher education immediately after high school.
The data also shows a steady decline in enrollment as age increases, with only about 8% of students being aged 30 or older. This could suggest that individuals over 30 may face challenges related to balancing education with work and family commitments. Interestingly, the 25-29 age group comprises a substantial portion of non-traditional students, which is consistent with national trends where older adults often seek to enhance their qualifications or shift careers.
Gender distribution shows a higher number of female students across all age categories, indicating a growing trend of female representation in higher education. This aligns with broader educational trends where women have been increasingly outpacing men in college enrollment and attainment.
The absence of graduate male and female students in the provided data could indicate a gap in graduate-level offerings or a need for increased outreach to potential graduate candidates. This is an area that could benefit from further exploration, particularly as institutions strive to meet the needs of a diverse student population.
Overall, the demographic trends at Grossmont College reflect broader societal shifts in education, gender representation, and age distribution, highlighting both opportunities and challenges in the pursuit of inclusive higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
205 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Grossmont College
The data from Grossmont College highlights a concerning trend in international student enrollment over the years. Starting from 2004, the college witnessed an initial enrollment of 654 international students, which represented 3.67% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage has seen a dramatic decline, plummeting to just 1.35% by 2023, with only 173 international students enrolled.
This downward trajectory raises questions about the factors influencing international student recruitment at Grossmont College. Several potential reasons could account for this decline. The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected international travel and education, with many students opting to study closer to home or facing travel restrictions. Additionally, increasing competition from other institutions offering attractive programs and support services for international students may have diverted potential applicants.
The drop in international enrollment could have broader implications for Grossmont College, as a diverse student body enriches the academic experience and fosters cultural exchange. International students often contribute significantly to campus life and local economies. The college may need to reassess its strategies for attracting and supporting international students to reverse this trend and ensure a vibrant, diverse community moving forward.
In conclusion, the data indicates a significant decline in the proportion of international students at Grossmont College over the years. Addressing this issue will be crucial for the institution's future growth and its ability to provide a comprehensive educational experience.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$32,714
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $10,628
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,332
- 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 48% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 95%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$215M
Expenses$186M
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 Other
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 66 | - |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Swimming | 19 | 15 |
| Volleyball | 15 | 18 |
| Water Polo | 18 | 14 |
| Basketball | 16 | 11 |
| Soccer | - | 18 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Softball | - | 12 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 70 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 30 | 36 |
| Volleyball | 17 | 21 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 21 | 12 |
| Water Polo | 12 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 16 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Tennis | - | 13 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 13 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 75 | - |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Volleyball | 16 | 19 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 17 | 13 |
| Basketball | 20 | 9 |
| Water Polo | 14 | 14 |
| Soccer | - | 18 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | - | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
San Diego State UniversitySan Diego · 4.7 mi
U.S. News #137
-
University of San DiegoSan Diego · 11.2 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of California-San DiegoLa Jolla · 14.0 mi
U.S. News #29
-
Soka University of AmericaAliso Viejo · 66.2 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
University of California-IrvineIrvine · 75.1 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of California-RiversideRiverside · 82.1 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Chapman UniversityOrange · 83.4 mi
U.S. News #100
-
California State University-FullertonFullerton · 89.5 mi
U.S. News #156
-
California State University--Long BeachLong Beach · 92.4 mi
U.S. News #137
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Grossmont College:
-
University of California-San Diego - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, UC San Diego is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Southern California - With a rank of 28, USC is a prestigious private research university located in Los Angeles, offering a wide range of programs and a strong alumni network.
-
San Diego State University - Ranked 105th, SDSU is a public research university that provides a diverse array of programs and has a strong emphasis on community engagement.
-
University of San Diego - This university is ranked 98th and is known for its beautiful campus and strong liberal arts education.
-
California Institute of Technology - Ranked 7th, Caltech is a world-renowned institution focused on science and engineering, known for its rigorous academics and groundbreaking research.
-
Harvey Mudd College - A top-ranked liberal arts college at 16th position, Harvey Mudd specializes in engineering, science, and mathematics, providing an intensive academic experience.
These institutions represent a mix of public and private universities, catering to various academic interests and providing quality education in the region.
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 Trends at Grossmont College
The data from Grossmont College reveals a noteworthy trend in campus-related crime rates over the years. From 2013, when the crime rate per 1,000 students was 1.07, there has been a general decline in incidents, culminating in a significant drop to just 0.08 in 2023. This reduction is indicative of a broader trend many educational institutions have experienced, particularly in the wake of increased campus safety measures and awareness.
The most prominent category of offenses recorded was gun arrests, which appeared inconsistently across the years. In 2016, there was a notable spike in such incidents, contributing to a higher overall crime rate that year. However, subsequent years saw a substantial decrease, with no gun arrests reported in several instances, reflecting possibly improved campus policies or community awareness efforts.
Moreover, the absence of violent crimes such as murder, rape, or aggravated assault throughout these years is particularly commendable. The college's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for students seems to be bearing fruit, as evidenced by the low rates of drug-related and alcohol-related arrests as well.
While the overall trend is positive, it is vital for the college administration to continuously monitor and adapt its safety protocols. As evidenced by national discussions on campus safety, a proactive approach will help maintain low crime rates and ensure a secure learning environment. The effectiveness of these measures should be celebrated, encouraging ongoing engagement from both the administration and the student body to uphold and enhance campus safety. For further insights on calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Grossmont College include Rachel Bilson (Actress known for The O.C), Nikki Bella (WWE professional wrestler and television personality) and Brie Bella (WWE professional wrestler).
-
Rachel Bilson 1981–
Actress known for The O.C
-
Nikki Bella 1983–
WWE professional wrestler and television personality
-
Brie Bella 1983–
WWE professional wrestler
-
Robert Hays 1947–
Actor, star of Airplane!
-
Lester Bangs 1948–1982
Music critic who wrote for Creem and Rolling Stone
-
Mike Whitmarsh 1962–2009
Beach volleyball player, 1996 Olympic silver medalist
-
David Leisure 1950–
Actor in Empty Nest and Isuzu commercials
-
Sean O'Sullivan 1987–
Former MLB pitcher
-
Quintin Berry 1984–
Cubs third base coach and former MLB outfielder
More alumni (13, by field)
Politics and law
-
Brian Jones 1968–
California state senator
Arts and media
-
Cathy Scott 1949–
True crime author and investigative journalist
-
Mark Goffeney 1969–2021
Armless musician who played guitar with his feet
-
Brian Patrick Butler 1990–
Actor, director, screenwriter and producer
-
Bernard Seigal 1957–2006
Musician and founding member of The Beat Farmers
-
Doug Benson 1962–
Comedian, actor and podcast host
Sports
-
Patrice Donnelly 1950–
Hurdler and actress
-
Akili Smith 1975–
Former NFL quarterback for the Bengals
-
Brian Sipe 1949–
Former NFL quarterback for the Browns
-
Joel Jones 1981–
Puerto Rican-American former basketball player
-
Travis Taijeron 1989–
Former MLB outfielder for the New York Mets
-
Todd Watkins 1983–
Former NFL wide receiver
-
Arthur Hobbs 1989–
Former CFL and AFL defensive back
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.