Sierra College
Out-of-state tuition
$1,446
$15,077 with room and board
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
19,125
Student-faculty ratio 25:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
38.3%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 44.6%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Sierra College, located in Rocklin, California, is a prominent community college known for its commitment to student success and academic excellence. Established in 1936, Sierra College offers a wide range of programs, including transfer degrees, career and technical education, and lifelong learning opportunities. The college's mission emphasizes the importance of providing quality education and fostering an inclusive environment that encourages personal and professional growth. With a focus on student-centered learning, Sierra College supports students through various resources, including academic counseling, tutoring services, and career development programs.
The college boasts a vibrant campus culture enriched by diverse student activities and organizations, promoting a sense of community and belonging among its students. Sierra College is also recognized for its strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental awareness, implementing initiatives that encourage eco-friendly practices. Additionally, the college has a dedicated faculty who are not only well-qualified in their respective fields but also deeply invested in the success of their students. With a beautiful campus nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills and a strong commitment to academic rigor, Sierra College provides students with the resources and opportunities to thrive in their educational journeys and prepare for successful careers.
Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Enrollment
The data reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student enrollment at Sierra College over the years. Notably, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, hovering around $1,150 from 2014 to 2023. However, the cost for out-of-state students has surged dramatically from $6,190 in 2014 to nearly $10,000 by 2024. This steep increase may deter prospective students from outside the state, impacting overall enrollment figures.
The number of undergraduate students has shown a concerning decline, dropping from 18,374 in 2014 to just 15,766 in 2023. This trend may correlate with rising tuition costs, particularly for out-of-state students, alongside broader economic factors affecting access to higher education. Alongside this decrease in enrollment, graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate has improved from approximately 8% in 2013 to about 16.5% in 2023. This demonstrates that while fewer students are attending, those who do are more likely to complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Moreover, the retention rate experienced fluctuations but rebounded slightly in recent years, peaking at around 69.3% in 2023, after a dip to 65.3% in 2022. This could indicate an increased effort to support students once they enroll, balancing the decline in the number of students with improved support systems.
Overall, while the institution has made strides in improving graduation and retention rates, the sharp rise in out-of-state tuition and declining enrollment raises concerns about accessibility and the institution's future sustainability. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for maintaining a diverse student body and ensuring long-term viability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Sacramento, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- Sierra Joint Community College District
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- William Duncan (Superintendent/President)
- Phone
- 9166243333
- City
- Rocklin, California
- Address
- 5100 Sierra College Blvd, Rocklin, CA 95677-3397
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Sierra College
The graduation data from Sierra College reveals significant insights into the distribution of degrees across various fields of study. Notably, the data indicates that the majority of graduates received an associate degree, particularly in the field of Social Sciences, which saw 537 graduates. This suggests a strong interest in social sciences among students, potentially reflecting current societal trends and job market demands.
In contrast, certain technical fields such as Electrical/Electronics Equipment Installation, and Building Construction technologies show minimal to no graduation numbers, which may indicate either a lack of interest in these programs or potential barriers to enrollment. The absence of graduates in these areas raises questions about the effectiveness of recruitment strategies and curriculum relevance in attracting students.
Furthermore, international students are notably underrepresented, with very few graduates earning bachelor’s or master's degrees. This is particularly concerning given the increasing emphasis on diversity in higher education and the benefits international students bring to academic environments. The lack of international representation could limit the diversity of perspectives within these programs, which is crucial in today's globalized world.
Overall, while some programs thrive, others may require strategic improvements to boost enrollment and graduation rates. Addressing these disparities is essential for Sierra College to meet both student needs and workforce demands effectively. The data underscores the importance of continuous evaluation and adaptation of educational offerings to align with student interests and labor market trends.
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. | $30,103 | |
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Geography. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Corrections. | - | |
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - | |
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |
| Graphic Design. | - | |
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | |
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | |
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | |
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - | |
| Apparel and Textiles, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | - | |
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | |
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Photographic and Film/Video Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |
| Sign Language Interpretation and Translation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Hazardous Materials Management and Waste Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Ethnic Studies. | - | |
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Building/Construction Site Management/Manager. | - |
Students
19,125 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 72.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 10,364
- First-year undergraduates 1,764
- Transfers and others 6,997
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (19,125)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Sierra College in 2023
The student population at Sierra College in 2023 showcases a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students. Notably, the number of new undergraduate students stands at 2,509, with a fairly balanced gender distribution; 51.1% are male and 48.9% are female. This balance reflects a trend seen in many institutions, where the influx of new students includes a significant number of both genders.
Among the returning undergraduate students, the total reaches 9,216, with a notable female majority of 56.3%, while males comprise 43.7%. This disparity suggests an increasing trend in female enrollment in higher education, which aligns with national statistics indicating that women are outpacing men in college attendance.
The transfer student population consists of 806 individuals, again with a majority of females at 55.1%. This continuation of the gender trend highlights the evolving landscape of higher education, where female students are increasingly represented.
An interesting aspect of the data is the subgroup analysis, particularly concerning racial and ethnic diversity. The breakdown for new undergraduate students indicates that white students constitute a significant portion of the demographic, with 1,301 identified in this category. However, the full representation of other racial and ethnic groups remains undisclosed due to incomplete data.
Overall, Sierra College reflects broader educational patterns, with a predominance of female students across various categories and a commitment to fostering a diverse student body. As the academic landscape continues to evolve, it will be important for institutions to ensure that they support all students, particularly underrepresented groups, in their academic journeys.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Sierra College in 2023
The age composition of students at Sierra College in 2023 reveals a predominance of younger individuals in the academic environment, with a significant concentration in the under-18 and 18-19 age categories. Specifically, students under 18 account for approximately 43.3% of the total student body, while those aged 18-19 represent about 41.4%. This trend aligns with the broader national pattern observed in community colleges, where younger students often pursue their education immediately after high school.
Interestingly, the data indicates a sharp decline in enrollment as students age, with those in the 22-24 age group comprising only about 10.6% of the total. This could suggest that many students either transition to four-year institutions or enter the workforce before returning to further their education later in life. The low enrollment figures among older age groups, particularly those aged 30 and above, indicate that adult learners are underrepresented at this institution, which may reflect barriers such as work commitments or family responsibilities.
The absence of graduate male and female students in the data suggests a potential area for growth. Encouraging older students to pursue graduate studies could enhance the diversity of the student body and contribute to a richer educational experience. Overall, Sierra College's demographic data presents a clear opportunity for targeted outreach programs aimed at non-traditional students, particularly those aged 25 and older, to foster a more inclusive academic community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
57 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016
Data insights
Declining International Student Enrollment at Sierra College
The data reflects a troubling trend in the enrollment of international students at Sierra College over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students gradually increased, peaking at 1.23% in 2009. However, a significant decline began in 2019, with the proportion dropping sharply to only 0.21% by 2023. This represents a dramatic decrease in international student representation, which fell from 254 students in 2009 to just 33 in 2023.
Several factors could contribute to this decline. One potential reason could be the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted travel and education worldwide. Additionally, shifting immigration policies and geopolitical tensions may have discouraged international students from pursuing education in the United States.
The decrease in international students is concerning not only for the financial health of the institution—given that international students often pay higher tuition fees—but also for the cultural diversity and global perspectives they bring to campus. As colleges and universities navigate these challenges, it is crucial for them to actively engage in strategies to attract international students, such as enhancing support services, promoting online learning options, and fostering global partnerships.
Overall, the declining numbers highlight the importance of addressing the underlying issues affecting international student enrollment in order to restore the vibrancy and diversity that these students contribute to higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$15,077
- Undergraduate tuition
- $1,446
- Room and board
- $13,631
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -77% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 84%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$259M
Expenses$190M
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 | 139 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 20 | 19 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 31 |
| Wrestling | 31 | - |
| Water Polo | 12 | 15 |
| Golf | 10 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 8 |
| Tennis | - | 6 |
| Cross Country | - | 4 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 125 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 28 | 24 |
| Water Polo | 18 | 17 |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Soccer | - | 25 |
| Wrestling | 21 | - |
| Golf | 12 | 5 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 3 |
| Cross Country | - | 3 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 125 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 38 | 19 |
| Water Polo | 18 | 16 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Wrestling | 29 | - |
| Soccer | - | 26 |
| Golf | 12 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 11 |
| Tennis | - | 8 |
| Cross Country | - | 8 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 33.8 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of the PacificStockton · 56.2 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 85.2 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of Nevada-RenoReno · 91.1 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 97.1 mi
U.S. News #116
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 100.9 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 107.2 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 107.3 mi
U.S. News #69
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 107.5 mi
U.S. News #5
Data insights
Here are some notable schools located near Sierra College:
-
University of California-Davis - Known for its strong emphasis on research and agriculture, UC Davis is ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of California-Berkeley - A prestigious institution, UC Berkeley is ranked 15th nationally. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Stanford University - Consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, Stanford ranks 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings. It is known for its cutting-edge research and innovation.
-
California State University-East Bay - This university, ranked 280th, provides a range of degree programs and is dedicated to supporting diverse student populations.
-
University of Nevada-Reno - With a ranking of 195, this university offers a wide variety of programs and is known for its research initiatives.
-
Santa Clara University - Ranked 60th, this Jesuit university is recognized for its commitment to ethics and social justice within its academic programs.
These institutions represent a blend of research universities and liberal arts colleges, providing a variety of educational opportunities 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 Trends at Sierra College
The crime statistics at Sierra College over the years reveal a significant decline in criminal activity on campus. In 2013, the rate of incidents per 1,000 students was 1.51, which then steadily decreased to a mere 0.06 by 2022. This remarkable drop highlights an overall improvement in campus safety and a successful implementation of preventive measures.
Looking closely at the nature of offenses, arrests related to firearm possession saw a reduction, with only one incident reported in 2023, suggesting a positive trend towards reducing gun-related crimes in educational environments. Furthermore, drug-related arrests have also diminished significantly, indicating effective drug prevention programs and awareness campaigns on campus.
The data also shows that domestic violence incidents have been minimal, with a notable absence in certain years. This can be attributed to increased awareness and resources available to students dealing with such issues, creating a more supportive environment.
In contrast, the number of incidents related to thefts and assaults appears to fluctuate over the years, which could point to external factors affecting these trends, such as economic conditions or community relations. The overall decline in crime rates, however, is encouraging and reflects positively on the administration's efforts to foster a safe learning environment.
These statistics serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining vigilant safety practices and support systems within educational institutions. As crime rates shift, continual evaluation and engagement with the student body will be vital to ensure that Sierra College remains a safe haven for its students. For more information on calculating crime rates, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Sierra College include Ryan Guzman (Actor known for Step Up films and 9-1-1), Joseph James Dengelo (Golden State Killer, serial killer and former police officer) and Laci Green (Former YouTuber and sex educator).
-
Ryan Guzman 1987–
Actor known for Step Up films and 9-1-1
-
Joseph James Dengelo 1945–
Golden State Killer, serial killer and former police officer
-
Laci Green 1989–
Former YouTuber and sex educator
-
Glen Edwards 1918–1948
Air Force test pilot; Edwards Air Force Base namesake
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.