Los Medanos College
Out-of-state tuition
$10,320
In-state $1,312
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
8,455
Student-faculty ratio 23:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
38.9%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 47.0%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Los Medanos College (LMC) is a community college located in Pittsburg, California, just east of San Francisco. Established in 1974, it has developed a strong reputation for its commitment to student success and academic excellence. The college’s mission emphasizes the importance of providing a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters learning and personal growth. LMC offers a wide array of programs, including associate degrees and certificates across various fields such as liberal arts, health sciences, and business. The college is particularly known for its robust transfer program, which enables students to seamlessly transition to four-year universities, enhancing their educational opportunities.
The campus culture at Los Medanos College is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the rich multicultural community of the Bay Area. Students have access to a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests, promoting engagement and camaraderie among the student body. Additionally, LMC places a strong emphasis on student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and career services, which contribute to high graduation and transfer rates. The college's commitment to athletics is also noteworthy; LMC offers various sports programs that encourage physical fitness and teamwork. Overall, Los Medanos College stands out as a nurturing institution that prioritizes the success and well-being of its students, preparing them for future endeavors in both academic and professional realms.
Analysis of Key Data from Los Medanos College
Los Medanos College has shown significant trends over the years in various metrics that are crucial for assessing the institution's performance. One of the most notable aspects is the fluctuation in student enrollment. From 2013 to 2019, the number of undergraduate students rose from approximately 8,554 to 9,747, marking an increase of about 14%. However, this trend reversed in subsequent years, with enrollment dropping to 7,791 by 2023. Such a decline could point to challenges that the college may be facing, such as competition from other institutions or changes in student preferences.
Another critical area is the graduation rate. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has seen a gradual increase, rising from approximately 5.68% in 2013 to around 16.86% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college may be implementing effective support systems for students to complete their degrees in a timely manner. However, the overall rates still indicate a need for ongoing efforts to enhance student success.
Retention rates also present a mixed picture. While there was a steady increase from about 70.49% in 2013 to a peak of 76.84% in 2019, the rates have since hovered around the mid-70s. This stability could reflect a positive environment for students, but it also signifies that there is room for improvement to ensure that more students continue their studies year after year.
Lastly, tuition costs have remained relatively stable for in-state students, averaging around $1,312 since 2014, while out-of-state tuition has increased significantly. This could affect the college's attractiveness to non-resident students and emphasizes the importance of competitive pricing in today’s educational landscape. Overall, these metrics provide a comprehensive overview of Los Medanos College's current standing and highlight areas for potential growth.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Stockton, about 30 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), about 30 mi
- Also known as
- Los Medanos, LMC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Pamela Ralston, Ph.D (President)
- Phone
- 9254392181
- City
- Pittsburg, California
- Address
- 2700 East Leland Road, Pittsburg, CA 94565
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Los Medanos College
The graduation data from Los Medanos College in 2023 reveals some noteworthy trends across various fields of study. Notably, the highest number of associate degrees were awarded in Biological and Physical Sciences, with 329 graduates, which constitutes approximately 18.4% of the total associate degrees conferred. This suggests a significant interest and demand for careers in health and life sciences, which aligns with the growing emphasis on healthcare and environmental studies in contemporary society.
Furthermore, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 39 graduates, marking it as a crucial pathway in the healthcare sector. This aligns with national trends indicating a rising need for healthcare professionals, especially in light of the ongoing global health challenges. The absence of international students graduating from this program indicates potential barriers for non-residents in accessing nursing education, which may need addressing in future admissions strategies.
In contrast, the Business Administration program awarded the second highest number of associate degrees, totaling 98 graduates. This reflects the continued relevance and appeal of business education in today's economy, with many students likely pursuing careers in various sectors, from entrepreneurship to corporate management.
Interestingly, the data indicates a complete absence of graduates in many disciplines, including the arts, humanities, and various technical fields, raising questions about enrollment strategies and the allocation of resources. It may be beneficial for the college to explore partnerships with industry leaders to enhance program visibility and attract more students in underrepresented fields.
Overall, the graduation trends at Los Medanos College highlight key areas of strength while also signaling opportunities for growth and improvement in academic offerings and student recruitment strategies.
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. | $35,046 | |
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $35,046 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $35,046 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Office Management and Supervision. | - | |
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | |
| Small Business Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - | |
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical/Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair Technology/Technician, General. | - | |
| Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | - | |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |
| American Sign Language (ASL). | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
Students
8,455 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 74.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,950
- First-year undergraduates 980
- Transfers and others 2,525
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (8,455)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Los Medanos College
In 2023, Los Medanos College reported a diverse student body across various classifications, including undergraduate freshmen, continuing students, transfer students, and graduates. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 1,487, showing a nearly equal gender distribution with 49.8% males and 50.2% females. This balance suggests an inclusive environment for new students, potentially reflecting broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has been increasing.
Continuing students number 4,570, with a more pronounced gender disparity, where males comprise 41.5% and females 58.5%. This could indicate that female students are more likely to persist and continue their studies compared to their male counterparts. Transfer students, totaling 652, also exhibit a similar trend with 45.2% males and 54.8% females, reinforcing the notion of greater female retention in college settings.
The demographic breakdown by race reveals that while specific numbers for continuing and transfer students are missing, the available data for freshmen shows a significant representation of various ethnic groups, including White, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students. This reflects the increasing diversity in higher education institutions across the United States, aligning with national trends of a more multicultural student population.
Overall, the data underscores a positive trend toward gender balance among new students and highlights the ongoing challenges of retention disparities across genders. As colleges aim to foster inclusive educational environments, understanding these demographics will be crucial in implementing supportive programs for all students.
Student Age Distribution at Los Medanos College in 2023
The age distribution data for students at Los Medanos College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographic makeup of the institution. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age bracket, with 1,309 male undergraduates and 1,401 female undergraduates. This aligns with trends observed across many colleges where younger students, typically fresh out of high school, constitute a significant portion of the student body.
As we move up the age brackets, the number of students declines. For instance, in the 20-21 age group, there are 734 male undergraduates and 763 female undergraduates, indicating a slight decrease. This trend continues with the 22-24 age group, where both male and female enrollments remain relatively stable but lower than the younger cohorts.
Interestingly, older age groups show a stark reduction in student numbers. The 25-29 age bracket has 267 male and 435 female undergraduates, while those in the 30-34 and 35-39 brackets see even fewer enrollments. This decline may reflect the challenges that older individuals face in pursuing higher education, such as balancing work and family responsibilities.
Furthermore, the data highlights that there are no graduate students in the male category across any age group, which may suggest that the college has a strong focus on undergraduate education or that graduate programs are less prevalent at this institution.
In summary, the age demographics at Los Medanos College underscore the predominance of younger students, particularly those transitioning directly from high school, while also pointing to the need for supportive measures to engage older learners who may wish to further their education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
32 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Los Medanos College
The data from Los Medanos College reveals significant fluctuations in international student enrollment over the years. From a modest 0.32% of the undergraduate population in 2004, the percentage rose to a peak of 0.42% in both 2014 and 2015. This growth reflects a broader trend in higher education where institutions have increasingly recognized the value of a diverse student body, fostering cross-cultural exchange and enhancing the educational experience for all students.
However, the following years saw a decline in the percentage of international students, hitting a low of 0.17% in 2010. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including economic conditions, policy changes regarding student visas, and global events that may have influenced students' decisions to study abroad. The year 2020, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, further complicated these trends, as many institutions faced uncertainties regarding in-person classes and international travel restrictions.
Interestingly, the data for 2022 and 2023 indicates a resurgence in international student enrollment, with the percentage rising to 0.39%. This rebound suggests a renewed interest in studying in the United States, potentially driven by improved global conditions and institutions' adaptations to remote and hybrid learning environments. As Los Medanos College continues to navigate these challenges, the future of international student enrollment remains promising, highlighting the importance of ongoing support and resources for these students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$33,558
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $10,320
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,312
- Room and board
- $23,238
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 94%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$111M
Expenses$105M
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 | 60 | - |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Soccer | - | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 59 | - |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Soccer | - | 22 |
| Basketball | 15 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 61 | - |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 11 |
| Soccer | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Softball | - | 11 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 23.7 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of the PacificStockton · 29.9 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 35.9 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 37.3 mi
U.S. News #34
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 38.9 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 43.2 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 45.7 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of California-Santa CruzSanta Cruz · 70.7 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 90.1 mi
U.S. News #69
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Los Medanos College:
-
Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford University is renowned for its academic excellence and is located in Stanford, California. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its cutting-edge research.
-
University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is one of the most prestigious public universities in the United States. It is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and diverse student body, situated in Berkeley, California.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is well-known for its strong emphasis on research and sustainability. It offers a variety of programs in agriculture, environmental sciences, and veterinary medicine.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - UCLA, ranked 15th, is a leading public research university in Los Angeles. It is famous for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences.
-
California State University-East Bay - This university, ranked 280th, offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a commitment to accessibility and affordability for its students.
These institutions are known for their strong academic programs and vibrant campus communities, making them excellent choices for students 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 Data at Los Medanos College
The crime data from Los Medanos College over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in campus safety concerns. Starting in 2013, the crime rate per 1,000 students was relatively low at 2.10, but there was a significant spike in 2014, reaching 4.34. This rise may indicate a period of increased incidents or perhaps a change in reporting practices that could have led to more crimes being documented.
Interestingly, the subsequent years, especially from 2016 to 2019, show a notable decline in the crime rate, dropping to as low as 0.62 in 2019. This reduction is encouraging, as it suggests potential improvements in campus security measures or a positive shift in student behavior. However, the data for 2020 and 2021 indicates a slight uptick, although still maintaining a low overall rate of around 0.70 to 0.95, which may reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on campus life.
The variety of offenses reported, including arrests related to gun possession, drug offenses, and alcohol-related incidents, highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and community engagement in maintaining safety within college environments. The recent years' numbers suggest that while the overall crime rate is low, continuous efforts are needed to educate students about safety and to foster a supportive campus culture.
This analysis underscores the necessity for institutions to remain proactive in addressing crime and promoting a secure educational environment. More detailed insights into specific crime types can further guide policy-making and resource allocation for student safety initiatives. For further details on crime rate calculations, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Los Medanos College include Anthony C. Ferrante (Film director of the Sharknado series), Lester Conner (Basketball coach and former NBA player) and Ty Carter (Medal of Honor recipient, retired US Army staff sergeant).
-
Anthony C. Ferrante
Film director of the Sharknado series
-
Lester Conner 1959–
Basketball coach and former NBA player
-
Ty Carter 1980–
Medal of Honor recipient, retired US Army staff sergeant
-
Dave Tollefson 1981–
Former NFL defensive end and linebacker
-
Octavio Guzman 1990–
Mexican soccer player
-
Sterling Moore 1990–
Former NFL cornerback and coach
-
Damon Powell 1990–
Basketball player known for dunking
-
Jack Larscheid 1933–1980
AFL halfback for the Oakland Raiders
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.