Laney College
Out-of-state tuition
$9,898
In-state $1,258
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
9,328
Student-faculty ratio 31:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
36.0%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 40.3%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Laney College, located in Oakland, California, is a prominent community college known for its commitment to academic excellence and diversity. Established in 1930, this institution boasts a rich history and a vibrant campus culture that fosters inclusivity and encourages student engagement. One of the key features of Laney College is its strong emphasis on career and technical education, offering a wide range of vocational programs that prepare students for the workforce. The college provides various resources, including a well-equipped library and modern laboratories, which enhance the learning experience and support students in their academic pursuits.
The college's mission statement emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and community service, aligning with its core values of equity and social justice. Laney College actively promotes a supportive environment for its students, encouraging them to participate in extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and student organizations. With a diverse student body representing a multitude of backgrounds and perspectives, Laney College fosters a rich humanistic environment that enhances the educational experience. Furthermore, the college has developed strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations, which not only enriches the curriculum but also aids students in securing internships and job placements after graduation. Overall, Laney College stands out as a dynamic institution dedicated to the success of its students and the betterment of the community.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Laney College
The data from Laney College reveals several noteworthy trends that reflect the institution's evolving educational landscape. Firstly, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have shown a positive trend, with the rate of on-time graduation increasing from approximately 9.97% in 2013 to 15.11% in 2023. This upward trajectory is promising, indicating that more students are successfully completing their studies within the expected time frame, which may be attributed to enhanced support services and academic resources.
However, the retention rates present a more concerning picture. While there was a consistent increase from 54.22% in 2013 to a peak of 65.22% in 2019, the retention rate has since dropped significantly, falling to 47.70% in 2023. This decline could signal underlying issues that may be affecting student satisfaction or academic support, which warrants further investigation.
Another critical aspect is the fluctuation in student enrollment numbers, which have seen a downward trend from 11,387 students in 2013 to just 8,168 in 2022, before rebounding slightly to 9,653 in 2023. This shrinking enrollment could be linked to rising tuition fees, which have steadily increased for out-of-state students, reaching $8,684 in 2022 and 2023. The financial burden of education may deter prospective students, particularly those from out of state, thus impacting overall enrollment figures.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently making up a larger proportion of the student body, reaching 55.46% in 2023. This consistent representation reflects broader trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.
In conclusion, while Laney College exhibits some positive advancements in graduation rates, the challenges of declining retention and fluctuating enrollment numbers, alongside rising tuition costs, signal areas that require strategic focus to enhance student success and institutional stability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- San Francisco, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), about 6 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Rebecca Opsata (Interim President)
- Phone
- 5108345740
- City
- Oakland, California
- Address
- 900 Fallon Sreet, Oakland, CA 94607
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Laney College in 2023
The graduation data from Laney College for 2023 reveals notable trends and highlights within various fields of study. A significant observation is the absence of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate graduates across nearly all disciplines, indicating a potential focus on associate degree programs. The highest number of associate degree graduates is found in the Social Sciences, with a remarkable 139 students completing their studies, which represents approximately 40% of the total associate graduates. This suggests a strong interest in social science fields, perhaps driven by contemporary societal challenges and the need for informed practitioners in these areas.
Another interesting aspect is the performance of international students, particularly in the associate degree category, where a total of 4 international graduates were recorded. This represents about 1% of the total associate degree graduates, highlighting the challenges faced by international students in completing their studies, potentially due to financial, cultural, or academic barriers.
Furthermore, the data suggests a gap in technical and vocational training programs, with fields like Electrical Installation and Carpentry showing low graduation numbers compared to the overall student body. Given the current labor market's demand for skilled tradespeople, Laney College might consider enhancing its technical education offerings to attract more students to these beneficial career paths.
Overall, while Laney College appears to be successfully graduating students in social sciences, there is an evident opportunity to diversify and strengthen its programs in technical fields, as well as improve support for international students. This analysis could guide future decisions to better equip graduates for the evolving job market.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General. | - | |
| Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General. | - | |
| Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management/Manager. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | |
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |
| English Language and Literature/Letters, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. | - | |
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - | |
| Cabinetmaking and Millwork. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | - | |
| Graphic Design. | - | |
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Ceramic Arts and Ceramics. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical/Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair Technology/Technician, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Area Studies, Other. | - | |
| Ethnic Studies. | - | |
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Photographic and Film/Video Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Carpentry/Carpenter. | - | |
| Building/Construction Site Management/Manager. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Journalism. | - | |
| Radio and Television. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language and Literature. | - | |
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biomedical Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural Technology/Technician. | - |
Students
9,328 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 54.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,632
- First-year undergraduates 295
- Transfers and others 4,401
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (9,328)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at Laney College in 2023
The student body composition at Laney College in 2023 shows a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students. The total number of new undergraduate students is 1,198, with a male representation of 52.8% and female representation of 47.2%. This indicates a slightly higher enrollment of male students among the fresh cohort, which contrasts with the continuing undergraduate students, where females dominate with 55.7%, while males account for 44.3% of the 4,282 students.
Interestingly, the transfer students also reflect a similar trend to the continuing students, with females making up 60.5% of the 1,269 transfer students, further highlighting a potential shift in gender dynamics among different student classifications.
The overall student population also includes a significant number of graduate students, totaling 2,904, with females representing 56.3% and males 43.7%. This translates to a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment in advanced studies as well.
When examining racial demographics, the data reveals that white students represent a considerable part of the student body across all categories, although specific numbers and ratios for subdivisions were not fully available for the continuing and transfer students.
These trends in student demographics at Laney College reflect wider societal changes in education, with an increasing number of women pursuing higher education and graduate studies. This aligns with national statistics, where women have surpassed men in college enrollment rates in recent years. Such insights are crucial for institutions aiming to foster inclusive environments that cater to the diverse needs of their student populations.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Laney College
The age distribution of students at Laney College in 2023 reveals some interesting trends regarding the demographics of the student body. Notably, the majority of students fall into the younger age brackets, with the highest numbers represented in the under-18 and 18-19 categories. Specifically, there are 611 male and 724 female students under 18 years old, while the 18-19 age group comprises 790 male and 641 female students. This indicates a strong engagement from younger individuals, which is often reflective of community college demographics where many students are transitioning directly from high school.
As students age, the numbers begin to decline, particularly in the graduate male category, which remains at zero across all age groups. This absence suggests that Laney College primarily caters to undergraduate students, and there might be limited options for graduate programs. The most significant representation in the older age brackets is seen in the 25-29 category, where there are 495 male students and 769 female students. This could imply that many individuals are returning to education later in life, possibly to enhance their career prospects or pursue new opportunities.
Moreover, the overall gender distribution shows a consistent trend of more female students than male students across most age groups. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment has increasingly outpaced male enrollment in recent years. Overall, these statistics highlight an active and diverse student population at Laney College, with particular strengths in attracting younger students and a significant representation of women in 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.
52 in 2025 · 4.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Laney College
The data on international student enrollment at Laney College reveals significant fluctuations over two decades, highlighting evolving trends in the academic landscape. In the early years, particularly from 2004 to 2009, the number of international undergraduate students was relatively stable, with percentages hovering around 3-4%. However, a notable decline began around 2015, with the number of international students dropping dramatically to just 79, leading to a mere 0.74% representation. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, economic conditions, and global events affecting student mobility.
The following years saw slight recoveries, with 2019 marking a peak at 5.25%, only to decline again in 2022 and 2023, where international students represented only 2.69% and 1.28%, respectively. This downward trend raises concerns about Laney College's international appeal and its ability to attract diverse student populations.
Moreover, the absence of graduate-level data throughout this period suggests a potential gap in understanding the overall impact of international enrollment on graduate programs, which could be critical for the college's strategic planning. As institutions worldwide face increasing competition for international students, Laney College will need to reassess its recruitment strategies and support systems to enhance its global standing and ensure a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$32,718
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $9,898
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,258
- Room and board
- $22,820
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 57% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 91%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$129M
Expenses$79.7M
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 | 84 | - |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 11 |
| Basketball | - | 10 |
| Swimming | - | 9 |
| Water Polo | - | 9 |
| Cross Country | - | 3 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 90 | - |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 11 |
| Basketball | - | 8 |
| Swimming | - | 6 |
| Cross Country | - | 4 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 77 | - |
| Baseball | 24 | - |
| Basketball | - | 11 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 8 |
| Cross Country | - | 3 |
| Swimming | - | 1 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 5.2 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 10.3 mi
U.S. News #116
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 12.8 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 25.9 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 35.8 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of the PacificStockton · 53.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of California-Santa CruzSanta Cruz · 56.5 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 58.4 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 104.9 mi
U.S. News #69
Data insights
Here are some notable universities around Laney College:
-
University of California-Berkeley - Ranked 15th in the 2024 US News rankings, UC Berkeley is a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Stanford University - With a remarkable rank of 3, Stanford is renowned for its cutting-edge research, exceptional faculty, and beautiful campus.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is recognized for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science, and veterinary medicine.
-
University of California-Santa Barbara - Also ranked 35th, UC Santa Barbara is famous for its stunning coastal location and strong emphasis on research and innovation.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - Tied at rank 15 with UC Berkeley, UCLA is known for its diverse programs, cultural vibrancy, and competitive sports teams.
-
Santa Clara University - Ranked 60th, this Jesuit university offers a comprehensive educational experience with a focus on ethics and social justice.
These institutions provide a wealth of opportunities for students in the area, each with its unique strengths and offerings.
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 Campus Crime at Laney College
The crime statistics at Laney College reveal a fluctuating yet concerning trend over the past decade. In 2013, the campus reported a relatively high crime rate of 3.86 incidents per 1,000 students, which significantly dropped to 1.76 in 2014. This decline might reflect improved campus safety measures or changes in student behavior. However, the following years saw a resurgence in crime, peaking at 4.57 incidents per 1,000 students in 2015, highlighting the challenges that institutions face in maintaining a safe environment.
Notably, the statistics for 2020 and 2021 indicate a gradual decline in criminal activities, with rates at 2.21 and 2.38, respectively. This could be attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activity and student presence. However, the figures for 2022 showcased a rise again to 3.92, suggesting that as students returned to campus, issues related to crime resurfaced.
The data from 2023 shows a dramatic decrease to 0.31 incidents per 1,000 students, which might indicate either a significant improvement in safety measures or a decrease in student population. It is essential for the college administration to continuously analyze these trends and implement effective strategies to ensure student safety. Regular engagement with the campus community and law enforcement can help in addressing the root causes of crime and fostering a secure learning environment.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Laney College include David Carradine (Actor and director), Frank Oz (Puppeteer, director and actor of Muppets and Star Wars) and Tommy Wiseau (Actor and filmmaker behind The Room).
-
David Carradine 1936–2009
Actor and director
-
Frank Oz 1944–
Puppeteer, director and actor of Muppets and Star Wars
-
Tommy Wiseau 1955–
Actor and filmmaker behind The Room
-
Ron Dellums 1935–2018
Former Oakland mayor and U.S. Representative
-
C. J. Anderson 1991–
Former NFL running back, Super Bowl 50 champion
-
George Wells 1947–2020
Professional wrestler and CFL player
-
James Robinson 1954–
Former middle-distance runner
-
Sterling Moore 1990–
Former NFL cornerback and coach
-
Nahshon Wright 1998–
NFL cornerback for the New York Jets
More alumni (1, by field)
Arts and media
-
Marvin X 1944–
Poet, playwright and essayist
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.