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Public, 4-year

Community College of Aurora

Aurora, Colorado · www.ccaurora.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$17,070

In-state $4,470

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

8,833

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

28.6%

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

The Community College of Aurora (CCA) is a prominent institution located in Aurora, Colorado, known for its commitment to providing affordable and accessible education. Established in 1983, CCA serves a diverse student body and offers a wide array of programs and services designed to meet the needs of its community. The college emphasizes inclusivity and strives to create a welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds. With a mission focused on student success, CCA provides numerous academic pathways, including associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs, allowing students to seamlessly transition to four-year universities.

In terms of facilities, CCA boasts modern classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and dedicated spaces for student collaboration and engagement. The campus is designed to foster a sense of community, offering various student services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling. CCA also emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities and student life, providing numerous clubs and organizations that cater to diverse interests, including cultural, academic, and recreational pursuits. Additionally, the college has a strong focus on workforce development, aligning its programs with local industry needs to enhance graduate employability. CCA graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education, reflecting the college's dedication to cultivating skilled and knowledgeable individuals in the community.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Community College of Aurora

The data from Community College of Aurora reveals several important trends regarding tuition costs, student retention, graduation rates, and the student-to-faculty ratio.

Firstly, tuition costs have seen a consistent increase over the years. For in-state undergraduate students, the tuition rose from $2,879 in 2014 to $4,030 in 2023, representing a significant increase of approximately 40%. Out-of-state undergraduate tuition followed a similar trajectory, climbing from $11,274 to $15,832, which is an increase of around 40% as well. This rising cost of education can be a barrier for many students, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, and it raises questions about the accessibility of higher education.

Retention rates have fluctuated, with a noticeable peak in 2020 at around 65% but a decline in subsequent years to approximately 61% in 2023. This inconsistency may indicate challenges in student support services or external factors affecting students' ability to continue their studies. High retention rates are crucial for the sustainability of community colleges, as they reflect student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness.

Graduation rates have shown a positive trend, especially the 150% graduation rate, which reached about 31% in 2023, up from approximately 19% in 2013. This improvement suggests that the college has made strides in supporting students to complete their programs, albeit still lower than ideal levels.

Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has worsened over the years, declining from 22 students per faculty member in 2013 to just 13 by 2023. While a lower ratio can enhance the learning experience, it may also indicate staffing challenges and increased pressure on faculty resources.

Overall, while there are positive indicators such as improved graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating retention rates warrant further attention to ensure that Community College of Aurora remains a viable option for current and prospective students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Denver, about 5 mi
Nearest international airport
Denver International Airport (DEN), about 10 mi
Aurora, Colorado
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Mordecai Brownlee (President)
Phone
3033604700
City
Aurora, Colorado
Address
16000 E CentreTech Pky, Aurora, CO 80011-9036

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate87841 international (4.7%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
General Studies
280
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
120
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other
81
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
51
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
50
Business/Commerce, General
47
Computer Science
36
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician
30
Psychology, General
26
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
19

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Community College of Aurora

The data from the Community College of Aurora reveals significant insights into the graduation trends of various programs in 2023. Firstly, it is noteworthy that the Associate degree remains the most awarded degree across most disciplines, with the highest number of graduates in General Studies (160 graduates) and Liberal Arts (232 graduates). This indicates a strong interest in foundational education that prepares students for further academic pursuits or entry-level jobs.

In contrast, specialized fields such as Respiratory Care Therapy and Diesel Mechanics show a more modest graduation rate, with 20 and 10 graduates, respectively. This may reflect the targeted nature of these programs, which often require specific skill sets and may attract fewer students compared to broader fields.

An interesting observation is the presence of international students, particularly in the General Studies category, which had 15 international graduates. This trend highlights the college's appeal to a diverse student population, potentially enriching the academic environment and fostering cultural exchange. However, many programs, including Computer Science and Office Management, reported zero international graduates, suggesting that these fields may need to enhance their global outreach efforts to attract a more diverse cohort.

The absence of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate graduates across all programs indicates that the college primarily focuses on associate degrees, which aligns with the community college model of providing accessible education. Future strategies could include the introduction of bachelor programs or partnerships with universities to facilitate further education for graduates, meeting the evolving demands of the job market and enhancing the institution's educational offerings.

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 481 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$43,092
General Studies.$43,092
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.$43,092
Computer and information sciencehas 71 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Computer Support Specialist.-
Health professionshas 67 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).$60,623-$67,145
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist.$60,623-$67,145
Public Health, General.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Visual and Performing artshas 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.$26,794
Businesshas 48 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business/Commerce, General.-
Office Management and Supervision.$48,441
Mechanic and repair has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Psychology has 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.-
Biologyhas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Homeland security has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice and Corrections, General.-
Educationhas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Social sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Science technologies has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Science Technologies/Technicians, Other.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Mathematics, General.-
Communication has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Communication, General.-
Legal professionshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.$61,742
Foreign languages has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Language Interpretation and Translation.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
History has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
History, General.-
Communications technologies has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Recording Arts Technology/Technician.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
English Language and Literature, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Physics, General.-

Students

8,833 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 60.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (8,833)

Hispanic
2,919 · 33.0%
White
2,183 · 24.7%
Black
1,500 · 17.0%
International
814 · 9.2%
Asian
545 · 6.2%
Two or more races
504 · 5.7%
Unknown
299 · 3.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
60.0%
18–19
12.7%
20–21
6.7%
22–24
5.9%
25 and over
14.8%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Community College of Aurora Students in 2023

The demographic composition of students at the Community College of Aurora in 2023 reveals intriguing trends regarding gender distribution and ethnicity among different student classifications. The total number of students is notable, with over 5,000 individuals enrolled. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a slightly higher proportion of female students, comprising 56.7% compared to 43.3% male students. This trend continues with the undergraduate sophomores, where females constitute 61.5% of the population, indicating a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment in the undergraduate categories.

For transfer students, the gender split is also favorable towards females, who represent 59.1% of this group. The implications of these figures suggest that the institution may be catering effectively to a demographic that is increasingly inclined to pursue higher education, particularly among women.

Examining the ethnic diversity within these groups, it is essential to recognize that the college serves a diverse population, which reflects broader societal trends toward inclusivity and representation in higher education. The data on ethnic breakdown is crucial but not fully disclosed for the undergraduate sophomores and transfer students, leaving a gap in understanding the complete picture of diversity.

Overall, the data suggests an encouraging trend of female students actively pursuing their education at the Community College of Aurora, while also highlighting the importance of continued efforts toward enhancing ethnic diversity within the student body. This aligns with national conversations on equity and access in education, emphasizing the need for institutions to create environments where all students can thrive.

Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at Community College of Aurora

The age distribution data from the Community College of Aurora reveals intriguing insights about the demographics of its student body. A significant portion of the students, approximately 43.1%, are under 18 years old, which indicates a strong influx of younger learners entering higher education directly from high school. This trend aligns with national observations where community colleges are becoming popular choices for recent graduates seeking affordable education options.

The 18-19 age group follows, comprising about 9.4% of the total student population. As students transition into adulthood, they often seek further education, and the presence of a sizeable number in this category reflects the college’s role in providing opportunities for young adults to enhance their qualifications.

Interestingly, the data shows a gradual decline in enrollment in the older age brackets, with only 0.5% of the total students aged 50-64 and a mere 0.1% over 65. This suggests that older adults are less represented in this community college setting, potentially due to various factors such as career commitments or financial constraints.

Moreover, the absence of graduate students in this data highlights a focus on undergraduate education at this institution, which could indicate a strategic emphasis on foundational learning rather than advanced studies.

Overall, the age composition at the Community College of Aurora reflects broader trends in community colleges across the nation, where younger demographics dominate the student population. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities for educational institutions as they adapt to meet the needs of a diverse range of learners.

International Students

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

Undergraduates9.2%

814 in 2025 · 3.3% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 3.3%2017: 4.0%2018: 4.4%2019: 4.0%2020: 5.8%2021: 4.4%2022: 6.1%2023: 7.6%2024: 9.1%2025: 9.2%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Community College of Aurora

The data concerning international student enrollment at Community College of Aurora reveals notable trends over the years. Starting from a modest representation of only 1.41% of the total undergraduate population in 2004, there has been a significant upward trajectory in the percentage of international students. By 2023, this figure escalated to an impressive 7.59%, indicating a growing appeal of the institution among global learners.

The increase is particularly evident in the total number of international undergraduates, which climbed from 78 in 2004 to 633 in 2023. This more than eightfold increase in international students reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions increasingly recognize the value of diverse student bodies. This diversification not only enriches the academic environment but also fosters cross-cultural understanding among students.

Interestingly, the surge in international enrollment aligns with the overall increase in total undergraduate numbers, which rose from 5,521 in 2004 to 8,343 in 2023. This suggests that Community College of Aurora is not only attracting a larger student pool but is also becoming a preferred choice for international students seeking quality education in the United States.

In light of recent global events and changing immigration policies, the growth of international students at such institutions is particularly relevant. It highlights the resilience and adaptability of community colleges in the face of challenges, making a significant contribution to the local economy and community while enhancing the educational landscape. Overall, these trends underscore the importance of fostering an inclusive and diverse educational environment that benefits both domestic and international students.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$33,855

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$17,070
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$4,470
Room and board
$16,785
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 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 75%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$69.4M

Tuition and fees
$31.7M45.7%
Government grants and contracts
$28.5M41.1%
Investment return
$2.6M3.7%
Gifts and private grants
$1.1M1.5%
Sales and services of educational activities
$50K0.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$37K0.1%
Other
$5.4M7.8%

Expenses$57.3M

Instruction
$27.8M48.6%
Institutional support
$10.2M17.8%
Student services
$7.8M13.5%
Academic support
$4.5M7.9%
Scholarships
$3.4M5.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$288K0.5%
Other
$3.3M5.8%

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
$71,093peers $68,588

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near the Community College of Aurora:

  1. University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus - Ranked 236 in the 2024 US News rankings, this institution offers a range of programs, particularly strong in health sciences.

  2. University of Denver - With a ranking of 124, the University of Denver is known for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.

  3. Colorado School of Mines - Ranked 76, this university specializes in engineering and applied sciences, particularly in the fields of energy and environmental sustainability.

  4. University of Colorado Boulder - This prestigious university is ranked 105 and is recognized for its strong programs in the sciences, engineering, and liberal arts.

  5. United States Air Force Academy - A top-ranked institution at 7, it provides education and training for future leaders in the Air Force.

  6. Colorado College - With a ranking of 33, this liberal arts college is known for its unique block plan, allowing students to focus on one course at a time.

  7. Colorado State University-Fort Collins - Ranked 151, CSU offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs with an emphasis on research.

  8. University of Wyoming - This university, ranked 216, provides a range of academic programs and is known for its outdoor and environmental studies.

  9. Brigham Young University - Ranked 115, BYU is known for its strong emphasis on ethics and values in education.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the Aurora area and beyond.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Motor vehicle theft
3
Aggravated assault
2
Domestic violence
2
Robbery
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Trends at Community College of Aurora

The crime statistics from the Community College of Aurora reveal fluctuating trends in campus safety over the years. Starting from 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students showed some variability, peaking in 2018 at 0.55 incidents. This spike may raise concerns, especially given that college campuses have been increasingly focused on promoting safe environments for students.

Interestingly, 2019 recorded a remarkable drop to zero incidents reported, which could indicate improvements in campus security measures or, conversely, underreporting issues that need to be addressed. Following this, the years 2020 to 2023 show a slight increase in crime rates again, with the average hovering around 0.26 to 0.36 per 1,000 students. Such fluctuations highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive strategies to enhance campus safety.

Examining the breakdown of offenses, the most serious crimes such as gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents warrant particular attention. The presence of these offenses can significantly impact the perception of safety among students and faculty.

In the context of broader societal issues, the trends at community colleges like Aurora are reflective of national concerns about campus safety and crime. Colleges across the U.S. are under increasing scrutiny to ensure the welfare of their students, especially in light of recent events that have highlighted the vulnerabilities of educational institutions.

The data emphasizes the need for ongoing evaluation of campus safety protocols and the implementation of effective prevention strategies. Ensuring a safe educational environment is crucial for fostering student success and well-being.

For further details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

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.