Solano Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$9,772
In-state $1,172
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
9,282
Student-faculty ratio 27:1
Peer median 18 : 1
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Solano Community College, located in Fairfield, California, is known for its commitment to providing accessible and high-quality education to a diverse student body. Established in 1945, the college has developed a strong reputation for its comprehensive range of academic programs, including both transfer degrees and career-oriented training. With an emphasis on student success, Solano Community College offers over 100 degree and certificate programs across various fields such as arts, sciences, business, and health services. The college's dedicated faculty members are not only experienced educators but also industry professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom, enriching the learning experience for students.
The campus environment at Solano Community College fosters a vibrant and inclusive culture, encouraging student engagement through various clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities. With a focus on holistic development, the college promotes a balance between academics and student life, offering numerous resources for personal growth, including counseling services and academic advising. The beautiful campus, equipped with modern facilities such as state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational areas, creates an inviting atmosphere for students to thrive. Additionally, Solano Community College is committed to supporting its graduates in their transition to the workforce or further education, with strong connections to local industries and universities that enhance employment opportunities for its students. Overall, Solano Community College stands out as a dynamic institution dedicated to empowering learners and fostering a community of excellence.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Solano Community College
The data from Solano Community College reveals several noteworthy trends concerning student demographics, graduation rates, and tuition. Over the years, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has shown a gradual increase, from $1,416 in 2014 to $1,172 in 2023, indicating a relatively stable financial environment for local students. However, the external tuition rates for out-of-state students have fluctuated less dramatically, suggesting a consistent pricing model that may appeal to out-of-state applicants, as it has remained in the range of approximately $6,324 to $7,386.
Student enrollment figures present a concerning trend. The number of undergraduate students has declined from a high of 9,964 in 2016 to just 8,105 in 2022, before slightly rebounding to 8,426 in 2023. This drop could reflect broader demographic shifts or challenges faced by community colleges in attracting and retaining students amid rising competition and economic factors.
Gender ratios in the student body also deserve attention. The data indicates a steady presence of female students, who consistently make up a larger percentage of the undergraduate population, with the female-to-male ratio hovering around 60% to 40%. This trend underscores the need for colleges to implement strategies that engage male students more effectively, potentially addressing issues related to enrollment and retention.
Graduation rates remain a significant area of concern, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which has been disappointingly low, peaking at only 8.2% in 2016. The college must prioritize initiatives aimed at improving these rates, as they are critical not only for the institution's reputation but also for the long-term success of its students. Fostering a supportive academic environment along with effective retention strategies would be essential in reversing these trends and enhancing educational outcomes.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Sacramento, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), about 35 mi
- Also known as
- Solano College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kellie Sims Butler (Superintendent-President)
- Phone
- 7078647000
- City
- Fairfield, California
- Address
- 4000 Suisun Valley Rd, Fairfield, CA 94534-3197
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Solano Community College
The graduation data from Solano Community College for 2023 presents an intriguing overview of the educational landscape within various disciplines. Notably, Biomedical Technology stands out with 22 bachelor's degrees awarded and 26 associate degrees conferred, indicating a robust interest in healthcare-related fields. This aligns with national trends where the demand for skilled professionals in biomedical sectors continues to grow, driven by advancements in medical technology and an aging population.
In stark contrast, several disciplines such as Applied Horticulture and Economics reported no graduates at the bachelor's and master's levels, suggesting potential gaps in student interest or job market viability in these areas. The absence of international students graduating in these fields could also reflect broader immigration and educational trends that influence enrollment numbers.
Another noteworthy observation is the complete lack of international graduates across multiple programs, including those in foreign languages and history. This could signal a decrease in international student enrollment, which has been influenced by various factors, including changing immigration policies and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the mechanical fields, while producing a modest number of associate degree graduates, highlight the ongoing need for skilled trades in the job market. As industries evolve with technology, these programs may have the potential for growth, particularly if they adapt to emerging trends in automotive technologies.
Overall, the data reflects a complex interplay of student choices, industry needs, and external factors impacting graduation rates across different fields at Solano Community College. The college may benefit from targeted outreach and curriculum adjustments to align better with labor market demands and to attract a diverse student body.
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. | $38,138 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $60,673 | ||
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | ||
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - | ||
| Small Business Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Real Estate. | - | ||
| Insurance. | - | ||
| Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections. | $41,356 | ||
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $41,356 | ||
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Geography. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $102,697 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - | ||
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | ||
| American Sign Language (ASL). | - | ||
| Sign Language Interpretation and Translation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | ||
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - | ||
| Data Entry/Microcomputer Applications, General. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethnic Studies. | - | ||
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photographic and Film/Video Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General. | - |
Students
9,282 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54
- Continuing undergraduates 5,838
- First-year undergraduates 746
- Transfers and others 2,698
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (9,282)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at Solano Community College in 2023
The student demographics at Solano Community College reveal a diverse and balanced enrollment for the year 2023. The data indicates that undergraduate freshmen make up a significant portion of the student body, totaling 1,502 students, with an almost equal gender distribution—49.8% male and 50.2% female. This suggests an inclusive environment for new students, which is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and community.
Continuing students, categorized as undergraduate juniors, represent the largest group with 5,150 individuals. However, this group shows a greater gender disparity, with only 41.7% of students identifying as male and 58.3% as female. This could indicate a trend in gender participation, reflecting broader societal trends where females are increasingly pursuing higher education.
Undergraduate transfer students number 561, maintaining a relatively balanced gender ratio of 46% male to 54% female. Meanwhile, the non-degree students, totaling 1,213, also exhibit a higher female representation at 56.8%. This consistent pattern across categories raises questions about the factors contributing to the increased female enrollment, which may include academic support programs or societal shifts encouraging women to pursue higher education.
The racial and ethnic breakdown of students, while not fully detailed in the available data, suggests a commitment to diversity. The presence of various subgroups, including White, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, and African American students, reflects the college's aim to create a rich educational environment.
Overall, Solano Community College's student composition reflects both challenges and opportunities in achieving gender parity and enhancing diversity, paving the way for a supportive academic community.
Age Distribution at Solano Community College in 2023
The age composition of students at Solano Community College in 2023 presents an interesting snapshot of the demographic landscape. The data indicates a significant number of students under the age of 18, with 390 male and 539 female students, suggesting a strong presence of younger individuals entering higher education. This trend is further emphasized in the 18-19 age bracket, where male enrollment stands at 966 and female enrollment at 1,118, marking this group as the largest demographic.
As we analyze older age groups, the numbers gradually decline. For instance, in the 20-21 age range, there are 601 male and 776 female students, which shows a slight drop compared to the previous category. This decline continues into the 22-24 age group, where male enrollment is at 456 and female enrollment at 577. The numbers keep decreasing in subsequent age groups, with the 25-29 category showing 372 males and 575 females, and further down to 40-49 where there are 245 males and 291 females.
The data also highlights a small but notable presence of students aged 50-64, with 182 males and 158 females, as well as a marginal group of students over 65, which reflects a growing trend of lifelong learning. This demographic diversity aligns with recent trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly accommodating non-traditional students. The age distribution at Solano Community College illustrates a vibrant educational environment, fostering learning for individuals from various life stages.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
9 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Solano Community College
The data reflecting international student enrollment at Solano Community College over the years reveals a fluctuating but generally upward trend, particularly noticeable between 2014 and 2017. During this period, the percentage of international undergraduates increased significantly, peaking at 44% in 2017. This growth can be attributed to the college's expanding global outreach and more favorable immigration policies during those years, which likely encouraged more international students to consider studying in the United States.
However, from 2018 onwards, there has been a noticeable decline in both the total number of undergraduate students and the proportion of international students. By 2023, the percentage of international students had decreased to 18%, reflecting potential challenges such as stricter immigration regulations, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and changing global dynamics in higher education. The decline in enrollment might also suggest that prospective international students are exploring opportunities in other countries or online education options.
Overall, while Solano Community College has successfully attracted a diverse international student body in the past, the recent trends indicate a need for strategic initiatives to revitalize enrollment figures. Engaging in international partnerships, enhancing support services for international students, and increasing visibility in global education markets could help the college regain its standing as an attractive destination for international students in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$31,858
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $9,772
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $1,172
- 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 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 85%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$116M
Expenses$116M
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 Other
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 11 |
| Soccer | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 10 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 11 |
| Softball | - | 9 |
| Swimming | 6 | 3 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 30 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 11 |
| Soccer | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Tennis | 9 | - |
| Swimming | 2 | 5 |
| CCCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Soccer | - | 18 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Tennis | 9 | 4 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Swimming | 7 | 4 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 26.2 mi
U.S. News #20
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 29.1 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 36.4 mi
U.S. News #116
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 40.5 mi
U.S. News #227
-
University of the PacificStockton · 47.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 55.8 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 62.1 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of California-Santa CruzSanta Cruz · 85.8 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 110.4 mi
U.S. News #69
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Solano Community College:
-
University of California-Berkeley - Ranked 15th in the 2024 US News rankings, UC Berkeley is renowned for its research programs and academic excellence. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines.
-
University of California-Davis - With a rank of 28, UC Davis is known for its strong emphasis on agriculture, environmental science, and veterinary medicine. The university provides a vibrant campus life and numerous research opportunities.
-
Stanford University - Ranked 3rd, Stanford is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, offering a wide range of programs and a strong focus on research and innovation.
-
University of California-Santa Barbara - This university is ranked 35th and is recognized for its strong programs in the sciences and humanities, alongside a beautiful coastal campus.
-
California State University-East Bay - Ranked 280th, CSU East Bay offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is committed to serving a diverse student population.
These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in various fields.
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 Rates at Solano Community College
The crime data from Solano Community College over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in campus safety. In 2013, the crime rate was notably low, with only 0.20 incidents per 1,000 students, which set a precedent for the following years. However, the figures saw a significant increase in 2014, with a spike to 0.94 incidents, indicating a potential cause for concern among students and faculty alike.
Throughout the subsequent years, the crime rate demonstrated considerable variability, with 2016 recording a rate of 0.70 incidents per 1,000 students, while 2019 saw a decrease to 0.43. This fluctuation may reflect changes in campus policies, law enforcement presence, or student behavior. Notably, from 2020 to 2023, the crime rate stabilized around 0.36 to 0.54, suggesting a trend towards more consistent safety measures being in place.
Analyzing the types of arrests made on campus, including gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents, could provide further insight into the nature of the crimes occurring at the college. The presence of arrests for domestic violence and sexual offenses also highlights the importance of ongoing awareness and preventive measures.
In conclusion, while the overall crime rates at Solano Community College appear to be manageable, the data indicates the necessity for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure student safety. Maintaining open communication and fostering a supportive environment are vital for reducing crime and ensuring a safe educational atmosphere. For detailed calculations of crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Solano Community College include Sly Stone (Frontman of Sly and the Family Stone), Joe Carnahan (Film director and screenwriter of The A-Team) and Ernest J. Gaines (Novelist and university teacher born in Louisiana).
-
Sly Stone 1943–2025
Frontman of Sly and the Family Stone
-
Joe Carnahan 1969–
Film director and screenwriter of The A-Team
-
Ernest J. Gaines 1933–2019
Novelist and university teacher born in Louisiana
-
Tug McGraw 1944–2004
Professional baseball relief pitcher
-
Johnny Colla 1952–
Founding member of Huey Lewis and the News
-
Ed Rollins 1943–
Republican political consultant
-
Mike Gibson 1985–
Former NFL guard drafted by the Eagles in 2008
-
Bakari Hendrix 1977–
Basketball player, Gonzaga standout
-
John Burris 1945–
Oakland civil rights attorney
More alumni (2, by field)
Politics and law
-
Dawn Morrell 1949–
Washington state representative and nurse
Arts and media
-
Kaylani Juanita
Illustrator focusing on activism and empowerment
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.