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Public, 2-year

Monterey Peninsula College

Monterey, California · www.mpc.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$10,532

In-state $1,188

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

7,173

Student-faculty ratio 23:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

30.2%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 35.9%

Peer median 33.7%

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

About

Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) is a vibrant community college located in the picturesque coastal city of Monterey, California. Founded in 1932, MPC has been committed to providing accessible, high-quality education to its diverse student body. The college offers a wide array of academic programs, including associate degrees, transfer programs, and vocational training across various fields such as arts, sciences, and business. One of the key features of MPC is its dedication to student success, which is reflected in its supportive learning environment and extensive resources, including tutoring services, counseling, and career guidance.

The campus itself is a beautiful blend of modern facilities and natural beauty, providing students with an inspiring place to learn and grow. MPC boasts state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational facilities that cater to a variety of interests. The college also has a strong emphasis on athletics, with numerous sports teams that foster school spirit and camaraderie among students. Furthermore, the college encourages a rich campus culture through various student organizations, clubs, and events that promote personal development and community engagement. With a focus on creating a holistic educational experience, Monterey Peninsula College continues to be a leading institution for students seeking to advance their education and career prospects in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Monterey Peninsula College

Monterey Peninsula College, a public institution, has shown notable trends in various metrics over the past decade. One of the most striking changes is in tuition costs for out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, the tuition was approximately $5,466, but by 2024, it is projected to reach $9,924. This represents an increase of over 80% in just a decade, reflecting the rising costs of higher education that many institutions are experiencing, which may deter prospective students from out of state.

Another crucial data point is the graduation rates for undergraduate students. The percentage of students graduating on time saw fluctuations, but there was a notable increase from 6.2% in 2014 to 12.9% in 2023. This upward trend is encouraging as it suggests that the college is potentially improving its support systems and educational quality to help students complete their degrees in a timely manner.

The retention rate, which indicates the percentage of students who continue their education at the same institution, has remained relatively stable, hovering around 67% to 70% over the years. This stability in retention rates suggests that while enrollment numbers may be declining—dropping from over 10,000 in 2013 to about 6,514 in 2023—the college still retains a significant portion of its student body, indicating a level of satisfaction among those who choose to enroll.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has seen a slight improvement, decreasing from 28 students per faculty member in 2013 to 18 in 2023. A lower student-to-faculty ratio often correlates with better educational outcomes, as it allows for more personalized attention and support for students, which is critical in enhancing overall student success.

In summary, while Monterey Peninsula College faces challenges related to rising tuition and declining enrollment, it is making strides in improving graduation rates and maintaining reasonable retention, alongside enhancing the learning environment through better faculty accessibility.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a midsize city
Nearest major city
San Jose, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC), about 50 mi
Monterey, California
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Marshall Fulbright (Superintendent-President)
Phone
8316464000
City
Monterey, California
Address
980 Fremont St, Monterey, CA 93940-4799

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate4202 international (0.5%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
88
Business Administration and Management, General
38
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
37
Psychology, General
32
Biological and Physical Sciences
25
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
20
Humanities/Humanistic Studies
19
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
14
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
10
Mathematics, General
10

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Monterey Peninsula College

The graduation data from Monterey Peninsula College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the distribution of degrees across various fields of study. Notably, the majority of the graduates have obtained an associate degree, particularly in disciplines such as Liberal Arts and Sciences, which saw a remarkable 170 graduates. This suggests a strong interest in foundational studies that provide versatile skill sets applicable across numerous careers.

In contrast, there is a notable absence of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees across the majority of programs, indicating that Monterey Peninsula College primarily serves as an entry point for students seeking to complete their associate degrees before potentially transferring to four-year institutions. This aligns with the broader trend observed in community colleges across the United States, where a significant portion of students aim for associate degrees as a stepping stone towards further education.

Moreover, the data indicates a minimal representation of international students in the associate degree category, with only two international students graduating in the Liberal Arts and Sciences program. This could reflect the college's outreach and support systems for international students, which may need enhancement to attract a more diverse student body.

Overall, while the college excels in providing associate degrees, there is a clear gap in higher-level degrees, highlighting potential opportunities for program expansion or development of partnerships with universities to facilitate seamless transitions for students aiming for advanced degrees. This could ultimately contribute to a more comprehensive educational ecosystem in the Monterey Peninsula region.

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 107 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.-
Health professionshas 77 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Dental Assisting/Assistant.-
Medical Insurance Coding Specialist/Coder.-
Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary.-
Medical/Clinical Assistant.-
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Businesshas 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.-
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.-
Real Estate.-
Psychology has 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biological and Physical Sciences.-
Homeland security has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician.-
Social sciencehas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Anthropology, General.-
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Foreign languages has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Linguistics.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
American Sign Language (ASL).-
Mathmatics and statistics has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Mathematics, General.-
Biologyhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Human science has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Child Care Provider/Assistant.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Physical Fitness Technician.-
Visual and Performing artshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Photography.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Drawing.-
History has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
History, General.-
Physical scienceshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Information Technology.-
Computer Science.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.-
Engineeringhas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Pre-Engineering.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
English Language and Literature, General.-
Communication has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Cultural has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Ethnic Studies.-
Women's Studies.-
Mechanic and repair has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Agricultural has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General.-
Libraryhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Library Science, Other.-
Culinary has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management/Manager.-

Students

7,173 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 68.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (7,173)

Hispanic
3,589 · 50.0%
White
2,053 · 28.6%
Asian
530 · 7.4%
Two or more races
433 · 6.0%
Unknown
287 · 4.0%
Black
196 · 2.7%
International
26 · 0.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
17.6%
18–19
20.8%
20–21
12.7%
22–24
11.6%
25 and over
37.3%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Monterey Peninsula College in 2023

The student demographic data from Monterey Peninsula College for the year 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition and gender ratios of the student body. The college hosts a total of 5,614 students across different categories, with undergraduate newcomers representing a significant segment at 831 students. Interestingly, this group has a slightly higher male representation at 52.2%, compared to 47.8% female.

For undergraduate continuing students, the numbers are striking; there are 3,912 individuals with a female majority of 57.8%. This indicates a growing trend of female students pursuing higher education, which is consistent with national statistics showing increased enrollment rates among women in colleges across the United States.

The undergraduate transfer students show a balanced gender distribution with 48.5% male and 51.5% female, reflecting a more equitable representation in the transfer category.

Moreover, the data highlights the diversity among students, with various ethnicities represented in the breakdown of the undergraduate groups. This aligns with the broader educational landscape that emphasizes inclusivity and diversity, which is essential for fostering a welcoming environment for all students.

Overall, the demographic trends observed at Monterey Peninsula College mirror broader societal shifts in education, particularly the increasing participation of women and the importance of diversity in higher education. This data not only reflects the current state of the student body but also points to the evolving nature of higher education institutions in the 21st century.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Monterey Peninsula College in 2023

The age distribution of students at Monterey Peninsula College reveals some interesting trends regarding the demographics of the student body. A significant portion of the enrolled students falls under the age of 18 and between 18-19, with 401 males and 533 females in the younger category, and 684 males and 671 females in the 18-19 age group. This suggests that the college attracts a considerable number of traditional students who are entering higher education directly after high school.

As we progress through the age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students, particularly among males. For instance, in the 20-21 age group, male enrollment drops to 404, while the female enrollment remains steady at 470. This trend continues as age increases; the 22-24 age group shows 339 males and 408 females, and the 25-29 group reveals 332 males and 469 females. The consistent female enrollment across these age categories indicates a potential trend where more females are continuing their education at the undergraduate level compared to their male counterparts.

Interestingly, the 30-34 age group and older categories show fewer students enrolled, reflecting the common trend where older adults may pursue education less frequently, possibly due to career commitments, family obligations, or other life responsibilities.

The demographic composition at Monterey Peninsula College is particularly relevant in the context of ongoing discussions about gender disparities in education. With a higher number of females enrolled at every age level, this data aligns with national trends highlighting women's growing presence in higher education. Understanding these dynamics can help educators and policymakers tailor programs and support services to meet the needs of a diverse student population.

International Students

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

Undergraduates0.4%

26 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.4%2017: 0.4%2018: 0.5%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.6%2021: 0.5%2022: 0.4%2023: 0.4%2024: 0.2%2025: 0.4%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Monterey Peninsula College

The data from Monterey Peninsula College over the years reveals a concerning trend in the enrollment of international students. From 2004 to 2023, there has been a significant decline in both the total number of undergraduate students and the proportion of those who are international.

In 2004, international students made up 1.20% of the undergraduate population, with 158 students enrolled. However, by 2023, this percentage had dropped to a mere 0.41%, with only 27 international students. This decline reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are facing challenges in attracting international students due to various factors, including immigration policies, global competition, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The data highlights a gradual decrease in enrollment numbers, with peaks in the mid-2000s followed by a steady decline. For instance, there were 158 international students in 2004, but by 2016, this number had plummeted to just 34. The challenges have persisted, culminating in a low of 25 international students in 2022.

The decline in international student enrollment not only affects the diversity and cultural exchange within the college but also has financial implications, as international students often pay higher tuition fees. As colleges strive to recover from past challenges, it will be crucial for Monterey Peninsula College to develop strategies to attract and support international students in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$45,650

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$10,532
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$1,188
Room and board
$35,118
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 76% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 214%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$111M

Government grants and contracts
$53.3M48.0%
Tuition and fees
$4.0M3.6%
Investment return
$1.5M1.4%
Other
$52.2M47.0%

Expenses$101M

Instruction
$26.7M26.5%
Institutional support
$18.4M18.2%
Scholarships
$11.8M11.7%
Student services
$8.1M8.0%
Academic support
$7.6M7.5%
Other
$28.4M28.1%

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
$104,647peers $68,588
Instructor
$104,647peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
2025
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football68-
Track and Field (Outdoor)2517
Baseball35-
Soccer32-
Basketball18-
Volleyball-17
Cross Country68
Beach Volleyball-13
Softball-12
2024
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football75-
Track and Field (Outdoor)2317
Baseball34-
Basketball159
Soccer24-
Cross Country109
Beach Volleyball-19
Volleyball-15
Softball-12
2023
CCCAAMENWOMEN
Football59-
Track and Field (Outdoor)3116
Baseball35-
Basketball1811
Soccer22-
Volleyball-15
Softball-13
Beach Volleyball-13
Cross Country65
Tennis-7

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Monterey Peninsula College:

  1. Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the US News 2024 rankings, Stanford University is a prestigious research university located in Stanford, California. Known for its academic excellence and innovation, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. It is a leader in research and has consistently been recognized as one of the top public universities in the United States.

  3. University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is known for its diverse student body and strong emphasis on research across various disciplines. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  4. University of California-Santa Barbara - Ranked 35th, UCSB is celebrated for its beautiful coastal campus and strong programs in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

  5. Santa Clara University - This university ranks 60th and is known for its strong undergraduate programs and commitment to social justice, located in the heart of Silicon Valley.

  6. California Institute of Technology - With a rank of 7, Caltech is a small, highly prestigious institution focused on science and engineering. It is known for its rigorous curriculum and research opportunities.

These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic rigor and contributions to various fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
13
Drug arrests
6
Domestic violence
2
Dating violence
2
Aggravated assault
1
Motor vehicle theft
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Monterey Peninsula College

The crime statistics from Monterey Peninsula College reflect notable fluctuations in reported incidents over the past decade. In 2013, the college experienced a relatively low crime rate of 0.88 per 1,000 students. However, there was a significant spike in 2017, where the crime rate surged to 4.61, indicating a troubling trend that necessitated attention from campus authorities and local law enforcement.

One of the most concerning aspects of the data is the increase in incidents of armed arrests and drug-related offenses, which are critical issues on college campuses nationwide. The rise in 2017 could correlate with broader societal issues, including increased substance abuse and violence, which have been exacerbated by various factors such as economic downturns and mental health crises.

Interestingly, the data shows a substantial decline in crime rates in 2021, dropping to just 0.28. This decrease could be attributed to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activities and a significant shift to online learning. As students and faculty adapted to remote education, many of the social dynamics that can lead to crime were disrupted.

As we analyze these trends, it is crucial to consider the implications for campus safety policies and support services. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to maintain a safe educational environment. Furthermore, the college administration should engage with students and the community to address underlying issues related to crime and promote a culture of safety on campus.

For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Monterey Peninsula College include Gaylen Ross (Documentary director, actress in Dawn of the Dead), Jimmy Panetta (US Representative from California, former Navy officer) and Marco Ramos (Mexican 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.