Modesto Junior College
Out-of-state tuition
$9,264
In-state $1,282
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
18,258
Student-faculty ratio 32:1
Peer median 18 : 1
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Modesto Junior College (MJC) is a prominent community college located in Modesto, California. Established in 1921, it has a rich history of providing quality education and fostering student success in the heart of the Central Valley. The college offers a wide array of programs, including degrees and certificates in various fields such as arts, sciences, health, and technology, making it an ideal choice for students looking to transfer to four-year universities or enter the workforce directly after graduation. Its strong emphasis on student support services and academic counseling helps ensure that students receive the guidance they need to achieve their educational goals.
The campus is known for its vibrant student life and diverse community. With over 50 student clubs and organizations, MJC fosters a lively atmosphere where students can engage socially and culturally. The college also prioritizes athletics, offering various sports programs that promote physical fitness and teamwork. Furthermore, MJC is committed to maintaining modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, which enhance the overall learning experience. The college's mission emphasizes academic excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement, making it a cornerstone of education in the region while preparing students for future challenges and opportunities.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Modesto Junior College
The data from Modesto Junior College reveals some significant trends in tuition fees, student demographics, and graduation rates over the past decade. One major point of interest is the steady increase in tuition fees for out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, the tuition for out-of-state students was approximately $6,046, which increased to $8,870 by 2024, reflecting a notable rise of around 46% over ten years. This trend could potentially deter prospective students from outside the state, especially in light of the increasing financial burden associated with higher education.
Additionally, the gender distribution among undergraduate students shows a gradual shift towards a higher female representation. For instance, in 2013, the percentage of male undergraduates was approximately 43.3%, while by 2023, it decreased to about 38.5%. This trend may indicate changing societal norms and increasing opportunities for women in education, which is a positive development for gender equality.
Moreover, the graduation rates present a concerning picture. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates in 2014 was around 4.5% and has fluctuated slightly, with a notable drop to 3.3% in 2015. This low graduation rate may suggest that students are facing challenges that hinder their ability to complete their degrees in a timely fashion, potentially linked to factors such as financial pressures and academic support.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has deteriorated significantly, dropping from 31 students per faculty in 2013 to just 18 by 2023. This reduction could indicate a commitment to providing more personalized attention and resources for students, but it may also highlight challenges in maintaining adequate faculty staffing levels amidst changing enrollment numbers.
In summary, while Modesto Junior College has made strides in gender inclusivity and aimed to improve student support through faculty ratios, the rising tuition and low graduation rates present critical challenges that need to be addressed to ensure student success and accessibility.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Modesto
- Nearest international airport
- Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC), about 50 mi
- Also known as
- MJC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Brian K. Sanders (President)
- Phone
- 2095756550
- City
- Modesto, California
- Address
- 435 College Ave, Modesto, CA 95350-5800
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Modesto Junior College
The graduation data from Modesto Junior College reveals some intriguing insights into the academic landscape for the year 2023. Notably, the field of Biological and Physical Sciences stands out with a remarkable total of 344 graduates at the associate level, indicating a significant interest and investment in the sciences among students. This trend may reflect a broader national emphasis on STEM education, as the demand for professionals in scientific fields continues to rise.
In contrast, several programs in the performing arts, such as Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, Interior Design, and Dance, reported lower numbers, with only 12, 0, and 7 graduates at the associate level, respectively. This disparity highlights potential challenges in the performing arts sector, which may struggle to attract and retain students amidst competition from more lucrative fields. The absence of international students graduating in these disciplines could further indicate a lack of global appeal or resources in these areas.
Interestingly, there were no graduates reported for bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degrees across most programs, which raises questions about the availability and structure of advanced degree offerings at Modesto Junior College. The lack of international students graduating from these programs suggests that the institution may need to enhance its recruitment strategies to attract a more diverse student body, particularly at higher academic levels.
Overall, the data underscores the need for educational institutions to adapt to changing student interests and labor market demands, particularly in the health sciences and technical fields while ensuring that creative disciplines continue to thrive.
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 | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $35,026-$37,999 | ||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $35,026-$37,999 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,897 | ||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $44,897 | ||
| Office Management and Supervision. | $44,897 | ||
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | ||
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - | ||
| Real Estate. | - | ||
| Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $29,144 | ||
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | ||
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||
| Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $132,845 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $26,479 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $38,491 | ||
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | ||
| Dance, General. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Photography. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Geography. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | $32,033 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Computer Graphics. | - | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. | - | ||
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
18,258 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 71.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 10,905
- First-year undergraduates 1,885
- Transfers and others 5,468
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (18,258)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at Modesto Junior College in 2023
The student population at Modesto Junior College in 2023 reflects a diverse array of backgrounds, particularly among the undergraduate cohort. With nearly 2,100 new freshmen and over 12,000 continuing students, the college demonstrates a robust commitment to providing education to a large number of students. Interestingly, the gender distribution reveals a higher percentage of female students across all categories: 52.3% for new freshmen, 63.2% for continuing students, and similar trends among transfer and other students. This trend highlights the increasing participation of women in higher education, a phenomenon observed nationwide.
The data on ethnicity further showcases the diversity within the student body. Among new freshmen, a significant portion identifies as White, followed by Latinx and Asian students. This multi-ethnic composition is vital as it promotes a rich cultural exchange and learning environment, preparing students for a globalized society. The presence of international students also contributes to the college's multicultural landscape, enhancing the educational experience for all.
In light of recent discussions surrounding access to education and the importance of representation, the demographic data underscores Modesto Junior College's role in fostering an inclusive environment. The balance of male and female students, along with a diverse ethnic representation, is essential in addressing educational disparities and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed. As educational institutions continue to adapt to the changing demographics of their student populations, the commitment to diversity and inclusion remains a cornerstone of their mission.
Age Composition of Students at Modesto Junior College in 2023
The age composition of students at Modesto Junior College reveals fascinating insights into the demographics of the student body. Notably, the largest group is comprised of students aged 18-19, with a total of 4,754 students, representing approximately 41% of the total enrollment. This aligns with the typical trend in community colleges, where younger students, often fresh out of high school, make up a significant portion of the population.
The data shows a gradual decrease in the number of students as age increases. For instance, the 20-21 age group accounts for about 19% of the total enrollment, while those aged 22-24 constitute roughly 11%. The trend continues with even fewer students in the older age categories, indicating that younger demographics are more likely to pursue higher education immediately following secondary schooling.
Interestingly, the data also highlights the absence of graduate male students, which reflects a broader trend seen in many community colleges where graduate programs are less common. Female students, particularly in the younger age brackets, dominate the enrollment figures, suggesting a growing trend of women pursuing higher education.
The low enrollment numbers in older age categories, such as those aged 50-64 and above 65, could indicate barriers for older individuals seeking further education, whether they be financial, societal, or logistical. As educational institutions evolve, understanding these age dynamics is crucial for developing programs that cater to a diverse student body and promote lifelong learning.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
171 in 2025 · 0.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Modesto Junior College
The data on international student enrollment at Modesto Junior College reveals a significant decline over nearly two decades. From a peak of 105 international undergraduates in 2004, the numbers have decreased sharply, reaching as low as 5 in 2014. This trend reflects a broader pattern observed in many U.S. colleges and universities, particularly in the mid-2010s, when political and socio-economic factors made the United States less attractive to international students.
Interestingly, after hitting a low point, there has been a modest recovery in recent years. By 2023, the number of international undergraduates rose to 41, resulting in an increase in the percentage of international students among the undergraduate population to 0.25%. This slight resurgence could be attributed to a variety of factors, including the easing of travel restrictions post-COVID-19 and a renewed interest in U.S. education from international markets.
Moreover, the overall numbers suggest that while international enrollment is still far from its 2004 levels, there is potential for growth as institutions adapt to changing global circumstances. The importance of diversity in educational settings is widely recognized, and colleges like Modesto Junior College may benefit from implementing targeted recruitment strategies to attract international students again.
Overall, the trends highlight the challenges and opportunities faced by institutions in fostering a diverse academic environment amidst changing geopolitical landscapes.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$31,350
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $9,264
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,282
- 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 45% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 85%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$80.9M
Expenses$150M
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 48 | 29 |
| Football | 70 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | 27 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Swimming | 16 | 9 |
| Water Polo | 12 | 13 |
| Basketball | 12 | 12 |
| Cross Country | 14 | 9 |
| Wrestling | 21 | - |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 11 | 7 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 11 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 71 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 42 | 19 |
| Soccer | 30 | 25 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Water Polo | 22 | 14 |
| Swimming | 16 | 13 |
| Basketball | 16 | 11 |
| Golf | 11 | 10 |
| Tennis | 10 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Wrestling | 16 | - |
| Cross Country | 10 | 5 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 67 | - |
| Soccer | 30 | 27 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 21 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 12 |
| Water Polo | 16 | 12 |
| Swimming | 16 | 9 |
| Golf | 7 | 11 |
| Wrestling | 16 | - |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 11 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of the PacificStockton · 28.2 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 37.6 mi
U.S. News #69
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 55.0 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 65.2 mi
U.S. News #5
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 70.0 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of California-Santa CruzSanta Cruz · 73.3 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 73.4 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 79.2 mi
U.S. News #116
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 80.4 mi
U.S. News #227
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Modesto Junior College:
-
Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford University is a prestigious private research university located in Stanford, California. It is renowned for its academic excellence and innovation across various fields.
-
University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is a leading public research university known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. It is located in Berkeley, California.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is distinguished for its strong emphasis on research and offers a diverse range of programs, especially in agriculture and environmental sciences.
-
University of Southern California - Located in Los Angeles, USC ranks 28th and is known for its excellent programs in business, film, and the arts, as well as its strong alumni network.
-
California Institute of Technology - Known as Caltech, this highly prestigious institution ranks 7th and is recognized for its focus on science and engineering.
These institutions represent a mix of research universities and specialized programs, contributing to a vibrant educational landscape in the area.
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
Crime Trends at Modesto Junior College
The crime statistics at Modesto Junior College over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses. Notably, the overall crime rates have shown a downward trend, especially from 2021 onwards, where incidents were minimal. In 2023, the college reported no offenses, which is a remarkable achievement and may reflect effective preventive measures and policies.
Examining specific types of offenses, arrests related to firearms and drug-related incidents were recorded in previous years but have seen a decline. For instance, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students was notably high in 2013 at 1.41, while it plummeted to 0.20 by 2022. This dramatic decrease suggests that the institution's efforts in addressing safety concerns are yielding positive results.
The decrease in crime rates can be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness, better security measures, and community engagement initiatives aimed at fostering a safe campus environment. Furthermore, the national dialogue on campus safety and mental health has likely influenced the college's approach to crime prevention.
In conclusion, while the crime rates at Modesto Junior College have varied throughout the years, the significant decline in recent years is encouraging. It reflects a collective commitment from the administration, law enforcement, and students to prioritize safety on campus. Continued vigilance and proactive strategies will be essential in maintaining this positive trend moving forward. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Modesto Junior College include George Lucas (Filmmaker, philanthropist and entrepreneur), Jeremy Renner (American actor, singer and producer) and Gil Evans (Jazz pianist, arranger, composer and bandleader).
-
George Lucas 1944–
Filmmaker, philanthropist and entrepreneur
-
Jeremy Renner 1971–
American actor, singer and producer
-
Gil Evans 1912–1988
Jazz pianist, arranger, composer and bandleader
-
Justin Roiland 1980–
Co-creator of Rick and Morty, voice actor
-
Gino Marchetti 1927–2019
NFL defensive end for the Baltimore Colts
-
Gary Condit 1948–
Former US Representative from California
-
Ron Livingstone 1925–1991
Pro basketball player, sixth pick in 1949 BAA draft
-
Roger Nixon 1921–2009
Composer and professor of music
-
Joseph Edward Gallo 1919–2007
Businessman and cheese producer, Gallo brother
More alumni (4, by field)
Politics and law
-
Eunice Sato 1921–2021
Former mayor of Long Beach, California
Arts and media
-
John Soares 1981–
Film director, actor and fight choreographer
Sports
-
John O'Boyle 1928–1984
Former NBA player with the Milwaukee Hawks
-
John Rade 1960–
NFL linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons
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.