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Public, 2-year

Los Angeles Southwest College

Los Angeles, California · www.lasc.edu

中文

Out-of-state tuition

$10,572

In-state $1,238

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

5,371

Student-faculty ratio 22:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

33.6%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 34.5%

Peer median 33.7%

“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Los Angeles Southwest College (LASC) is a prominent community college located in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Established in 1967, it serves a diverse student population and is dedicated to providing quality education and vocational training. One of the college's standout features is its commitment to inclusivity and support for underrepresented communities, making it a vital educational hub in the region. The college offers a wide array of programs, including degree and certificate options in fields such as business, health sciences, and liberal arts, along with a strong emphasis on workforce development.

LASC prides itself on fostering a vibrant campus culture that encourages student engagement and personal growth. The college's motto, "Empowering Students to Achieve Their Dreams," reflects this mission. With a range of student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs, students have ample opportunities to connect with peers and enhance their college experience. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that support both academic pursuits and leisurely activities. Additionally, LASC maintains strong ties with local industries and businesses, facilitating valuable networking and internship opportunities for students, which significantly enhances their employment prospects upon graduation.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Los Angeles Southwest College

Los Angeles Southwest College has experienced notable shifts in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student retention rates, and graduation rates.

Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, hovering around $1,220 to $1,244 from 2014 to 2019, but has risen significantly for out-of-state students, increasing from $6,161 in 2014 to $9,870 in 2023. This sharp increase may reflect broader trends in education financing, where public institutions are increasingly passing costs onto students, particularly those from outside the state, potentially impacting enrollment numbers.

In terms of student retention, there has been a positive trend with retention rates rising from approximately 58% in 2013 to about 65% in 2023. This increase indicates that the college has improved its ability to keep students enrolled from one year to the next, which is often correlated with enhanced student support services and academic resources. Retention is a critical metric as it often reflects student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness.

Graduation rates have also shown a significant improvement, with the percentage of students graduating on time rising from 1.75% in 2013 to 8.81% in 2023. Additionally, the 150% graduation rate has climbed from 6.43% to 18.47% in the same period. These figures suggest that the college has made strides in helping students complete their degrees, possibly through improved advising and academic programs.

These trends highlight the college's evolving landscape, where rising costs are tempered by better student outcomes. As the institution continues to adapt, it will be crucial to balance financial accessibility with quality education to ensure sustainable growth and student success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Los Angeles, about 9 mi
Nearest international airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 6 mi
Los Angeles, California
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Anthony Culpepper (President)
Phone
3232415400
City
Los Angeles, California
Address
1600 W Imperial Hwy, Los Angeles, CA 90047-4899

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate6460 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
353
Biological and Physical Sciences
92
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
41
Psychology, General
36
Business Administration and Management, General
26
Child Care Provider/Assistant
13
Sociology, General
13
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
11
Art/Art Studies, General
8
Business/Commerce, General
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Los Angeles Southwest College

The data from Los Angeles Southwest College reveals a significant focus on associate degrees, with a total of 519 associate degrees awarded across various programs. Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies program stands out with 319 graduates, comprising over 61% of all associate graduates. This trend highlights the college's commitment to providing foundational education, which is essential for students seeking to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce.

In contrast, there are no graduates reported for bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate programs for the academic year. This absence suggests a potential area for development, as students often seek institutions that offer pathways to advanced degrees. The lack of international students graduating from these programs further underscores this gap.

Interestingly, programs in Criminal Justice and Registered Nursing are among the highest for associate degrees, with 23 and 30 graduates respectively. This aligns with national trends where healthcare and law enforcement education are in high demand, reflecting growing job markets in these fields.

Moreover, the absence of international graduates in most categories might indicate challenges in attracting and retaining international students, a crucial demographic for many colleges that enrich campus diversity and contribute to academic excellence.

In conclusion, while the college excels in associate degree offerings, particularly in Liberal Arts and Health Sciences, it must explore opportunities to develop its bachelor’s and higher degree programs to enhance its appeal and educational breadth.

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

Liberal arts has 354 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$41,348-$46,272
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.$41,348-$46,272
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 92 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biological and Physical Sciences.-
Health professionshas 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$102,742
Businesshas 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Office Management and Supervision.-
Real Estate.-
Psychology has 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.-
Human science has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General.-
Child Care Provider/Assistant.-
Social sciencehas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Anthropology, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Homeland security has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Visual and Performing artshas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Foreign languages has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Computer and information sciencehas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Computer Programming/Programmer, General.-
Communication has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Physics, General.-
Biologyhas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
English Language and Literature, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
History, General.-
Cultural has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Women's Studies.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Mathematics, General.-

Students

5,371 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 52.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,371)

Hispanic
2,509 · 46.7%
Black
1,835 · 34.2%
White
572 · 10.6%
Two or more races
181 · 3.4%
Asian
141 · 2.6%
Unknown
115 · 2.1%
International
7 · 0.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
23.4%
18–19
11.1%
20–21
10.9%
22–24
11.5%
25 and over
43.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Los Angeles Southwest College in 2023

The student population at Los Angeles Southwest College presents a diverse and interesting landscape for the academic year 2023. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 528 students, with a notable gender distribution of approximately 40.3% male and 59.7% female. This indicates a growing trend of female representation in higher education, which aligns with national statistics showing an increasing enrollment of women in colleges and universities.

For undergraduate juniors, the numbers rise significantly to 1,903 students, with a much lower male representation at 26.1% compared to 73.9% female. This further emphasizes the trend of female dominance in undergraduate studies, especially in higher academic levels. In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students total 1,155, with a gender ratio of 31% male and 69% female, suggesting that women continue to pursue their education vigorously.

The overall enrollment figures hint at a potential shift in academic environments, where female students may be more encouraged or supported in their educational pursuits. However, the demographic breakdown reveals a lack of specific data on the racial and ethnic composition of these groups, which is crucial for understanding the full picture of diversity at the college.

While some subgroups, such as the white and African American students, do show participation, the absence of detailed figures for the entire student body makes it difficult to draw comprehensive conclusions about inclusion and representation. As institutions like Los Angeles Southwest College continue to evolve, they will need to focus on not only maintaining these enrollment trends but also ensuring equitable opportunities for all demographics.

Age Distribution Among Students at Los Angeles Southwest College

The age distribution data from Los Angeles Southwest College reveals interesting trends in the demographics of its student body. A significant proportion of students fall under the age of 24, with the largest group being those under 18, accounting for approximately 38% of the total student population. This suggests that the college attracts a considerable number of younger students, likely recent high school graduates seeking further education.

As we move through the age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students. For instance, the 18-19 age group consists of about 27% of the total, while those aged 20-21 drop to 16%. The numbers continue to decrease in the 22-24 age range, reflecting a potential trend where older students may choose other educational paths or defer their studies.

Interestingly, the representation of graduate students is absent in this data, indicating that Los Angeles Southwest College primarily serves undergraduate students. The data also highlights a gender disparity; females outnumber males significantly across all age categories, particularly in the under 18 category, where there are almost 1.6 females for every male student.

This trend resonates with broader educational statistics indicating that women are increasingly pursuing higher education, often outpacing their male counterparts. Moreover, the low representation of older students (those aged 30 and above) suggests that the college may not be a preferred choice for non-traditional students, who often juggle work and family commitments.

In conclusion, the age and gender demographics at Los Angeles Southwest College reflect current trends in higher education, emphasizing the institution's role in supporting young, predominantly female students as they embark on their academic journeys.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.1%

7 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.4%2017: 0.3%2018: 0.3%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.3%2022: 0.3%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.1%2025: 0.1%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Los Angeles Southwest College

The data on international student enrollment at Los Angeles Southwest College over the years reveals a significant fluctuation in the number and percentage of international students in the undergraduate program. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international students was relatively low, hovering around 0.31% to 0.39%. This figure saw a notable increase in 2010, reaching 0.62%, which indicates a peak interest in the college during that period.

However, this surge was not sustained, as the numbers began to decline after 2010, with the percentage dropping to just 0.16% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to several factors, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, or even the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted higher education worldwide.

The total number of undergraduate students also fluctuated, peaking in 2009 and then experiencing variations through the years, ultimately leading to a significant drop in recent years. The data suggests that while there were periods of increased international enrollment, the long-term trend indicates a concerning decline, which could affect the college's diversity and global engagement.

Given the current global landscape and the importance of international education, it may be crucial for the college to implement strategies aimed at attracting and retaining international students. This could involve enhancing support services, promoting academic programs, and fostering partnerships with institutions abroad to reverse the declining trend and enrich the campus community.

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
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

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$70.1M

Government grants and contracts
$66.3M94.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.5M2.2%
Tuition and fees
$1.3M1.9%
Other
$985K1.4%

Expenses$86.7M

Instruction
$31.1M35.9%
Student services
$17.2M19.9%
Scholarships
$11.5M13.2%
Institutional support
$6.0M7.0%
Academic support
$5.2M6.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.2M2.5%
Public service
$205K0.2%
Other
$13.2M15.2%

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.

All faculty
$100,327peers $68,588
Instructor
$100,327peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
2025
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football56-
Basketball1812
2024
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football80-
Basketball2015
2023
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football72-
Basketball16-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Los Angeles Southwest College:

  1. University of Southern California (南加州大学) - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, USC is a prestigious private research university known for its strong programs in business, cinema, and engineering.

  2. University of California-Los Angeles (加州大学洛杉矶分校) - With a ranking of 15, UCLA is a highly regarded public research university, recognized for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life.

  3. California Institute of Technology (加州理工学院) - Ranked 7th, Caltech is known for its cutting-edge research and strong emphasis on science and engineering.

  4. Loyola Marymount University (洛约拉马利蒙特大学) - This private university ranks 93rd and is known for its liberal arts education and strong commitment to social justice.

  5. Pepperdine University (佩珀代因大学) - Ranked 76th, Pepperdine is recognized for its beautiful campus and strong programs in business, law, and education.

  6. University of California-Irvine (加州大学尔湾分校) - With a ranking of 33, UCI is known for its research initiatives and a strong focus on STEM fields.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the Los Angeles area, making them excellent choices for higher education.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug arrests
14
Aggravated assault
9
Motor vehicle theft
9
Burglary
7
Domestic violence
4
Robbery
3

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Crime Rates at Los Angeles Southwest College: A Closer Look

The crime statistics for Los Angeles Southwest College over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety. Notably, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students shows significant variation, peaking in 2021 at 4.79 incidents per 1,000 students. This is a stark contrast to the much lower rate of 0.72 in 2015, which suggests that the college has experienced periods of both increased and decreased crime activity.

Throughout the years, offenses related to gun arrests have been consistently reported, indicating an ongoing concern regarding firearm-related incidents on campus. On the other hand, drug arrests have also contributed to the overall crime rate, reflecting broader societal issues related to substance use and abuse, which are prevalent in many college environments.

Interestingly, the data for 2023 indicates a decrease in the total number of reported incidents compared to previous years, with a crime rate of 2.04 per 1,000 students. This decline could suggest effective measures being implemented to improve campus safety or possibly a change in student behavior and community engagement.

As we analyze these trends, it’s essential to understand that crime rates in educational institutions are influenced by various factors, including campus policies, law enforcement presence, and the overall environment of the surrounding community. While the statistics provide a snapshot, they should be interpreted within the broader context of societal challenges faced by students today. For anyone interested in understanding how to calculate crime rates, further information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Los Angeles Southwest College include Schoolboy Q (American rapper), Curtis Millage (Professional basketball player) and Ivan Johnson (Former professional basketball player).

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.