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Public, 4-year

Pikes Peak Community College

Colorado Springs, Colorado · www.pikespeak.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$17,110

In-state $4,510

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

12,556

Student-faculty ratio 22:1

Peer median 18 : 1

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

About

Pikes Peak State College (PPSC), located in Colorado Springs, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to accessible and quality education. The college offers a diverse range of programs, including associate degrees and certificates across various fields such as health sciences, business, and liberal arts. One of the defining features of PPSC is its focus on student success and community engagement. The college emphasizes a supportive learning environment, providing students with resources such as academic advising, tutoring, and career services to help them achieve their educational and professional goals.

The campus is known for its vibrant community atmosphere, where students from different backgrounds come together to participate in various extracurricular activities, clubs, and events. PPSC has a strong emphasis on fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity, which enhances the overall student experience. Facilities at PPSC include modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, all designed to support both academic and personal growth. The college's strategic location near the stunning Pikes Peak offers students unique opportunities for outdoor activities, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. With a commitment to preparing students for the workforce and a strong network of partnerships with local businesses, PPSC graduates are well-equipped to enter the job market successfully.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Pikes Peak State College

The data from Pikes Peak State College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. One of the most notable trends is the increasing cost of tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, in-state tuition rose from $3,156 to $4,302, while out-of-state students faced a jump from $12,055 to $16,534. This nearly 36% increase in in-state tuition and over 37% for out-of-state tuition underscores the growing financial burden on students and their families, a trend observed across many public colleges in the U.S.

Simultaneously, the total number of undergraduate students has shown a downward trajectory. Enrollment decreased from 14,634 in 2014 to 11,899 in 2023. This drop in student numbers raises concerns about access to higher education and may correlate with rising tuition costs, which can deter potential students from enrolling.

Moreover, the graduation rates have also been concerning. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates plummeted from 13.2% in 2013 to just 8.3% in 2014, indicating that students are struggling to complete their degrees within the traditional time frame. While there was a slight improvement in subsequent years, the rates still reflect challenges faced by students in achieving timely graduation.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 20 to 23 students per faculty member. While this ratio suggests a consistent level of faculty support, it raises questions about whether the institution is adequately equipped to meet the needs of a declining student population.

In summary, the trends at Pikes Peak State College highlight critical issues in affordability, enrollment, and graduation outcomes, which are reflective of broader challenges faced by public higher education institutions today. Addressing these issues will be essential for improving access and success for future students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Colorado Springs, about 7 mi
Nearest international airport
Denver International Airport (DEN), about 80 mi
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Also known as
PPSC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Lance Bolton (President)
Phone
7195022000
City
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Address
5675 S Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906-5498

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Nursing School#506

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1,58628 international (1.8%)
Bachelor's870 international (0.0%)
Top 2 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
76
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management
11

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Pikes Peak State College

The graduation data from Pikes Peak State College reveals interesting patterns, particularly in the healthcare and technical fields. The Registered Nursing program stands out significantly, producing 43 graduates with an additional 92 earning an associate degree. This strong output aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened awareness around healthcare resources and career opportunities within this sector.

Conversely, several technical and vocational programs, such as Automotive Mechanics Technology and Welding Technology, have notably low graduation rates, with most producing zero graduates. This could suggest a lack of interest or enrollment in these programs, potentially pointing to broader economic trends where students might be opting for more stable or lucrative career paths in healthcare or technology.

Moreover, the absence of international students graduating in many programs highlights a potential area for growth. Programs like Crisis/Emergency Management, which graduated 13 students, could benefit from attracting more international talent, especially given the global nature of crisis management and the diverse perspectives that international students can bring.

Overall, while healthcare programs thrive, the college may need to reassess its offerings in technical fields to ensure they align with student interests and market demands. This analysis underscores the importance of adapting educational pathways to meet evolving workforce needs, particularly in a post-pandemic landscape.

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 818 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$35,241
General Studies.$35,241
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.$35,241
Health professionshas 260 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Dental Assisting/Assistant.-
Medical/Clinical Assistant.$38,144
Pharmacy Technician/Assistant.$38,144
Physical Therapy Assistant.$38,144
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).$45,021-$61,643
Surgical Technology/Technologist.$45,021-$61,643
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.$45,021-$61,643
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$40,730-$76,285
Computer and information sciencehas 99 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.$51,858
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Businesshas 69 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.$46,478
Office Management and Supervision.$46,478
Accounting.$41,603-$47,031
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.$41,603-$47,031
General Office Occupations and Clerical Services.-
Homeland security has 63 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Criminal Justice and Corrections, General.$40,554
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$40,554
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.$69,030
Wildland/Forest Firefighting and Investigation.$69,030
Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management.-
Culinary has 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General.-
Communications technologies has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician.-
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.-
Mechanic and repair has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.-
Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician.$45,885-$48,629
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.$45,885-$48,629
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician.$45,885-$48,629
Visual and Performing artshas 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Dance, General.-
Commercial Photography.-
Interior Design.-
Graphic Design.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.-
Music, General.-
Engineering technologieshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Architectural Engineering Technologies/Technicians.-
Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Water Quality and Wastewater Treatment Management and Recycling Technology/Technician.-
Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician.-
Precision production has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Machine Tool Technology/Machinist.-
Machine Shop Technology/Assistant.-
Welding Technology/Welder.-
Biologyhas 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Zoology/Animal Biology.-
Educationhas 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Psychology has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Psychology, General.-
Communication has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Communication, General.-
Journalism.-
Foreign languages has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
French Language and Literature.-
Spanish Language and Literature.-
American Sign Language (ASL).-
Sign Language Interpretation and Translation.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology, Other.-
Social sciencehas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Anthropology, General.-
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Legal professionshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.-
Construction trades has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Construction Trades, General.-
Carpentry/Carpenter.-
Engineeringhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Mechanical Engineering.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
English Language and Literature, General.-
Philosophy has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Philosophy.-
Natural resources has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, Other.$25,552
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Mathematics, General.-

Students

12,556 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (12,556)

White
6,657 · 53.0%
Hispanic
3,165 · 25.2%
Two or more races
947 · 7.5%
Black
923 · 7.4%
Asian
427 · 3.4%
Unknown
236 · 1.9%
International
54 · 0.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
17.5%
18–19
20.6%
20–21
14.0%
22–24
12.4%
25 and over
35.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Pikes Peak State College in 2023

The student demographic data from Pikes Peak State College for the year 2023 reveals some key insights into the composition of the student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 2,021, with a nearly balanced gender distribution, where 47.6% are male and 52.4% are female. This indicates a slight female majority among new entrants.

In contrast, the undergraduate continuing students show a more pronounced gender imbalance, with females making up 61.8% of the 5,529 students, while males represent only 38.2%. Similarly, the undergraduate transfer students, totaling 1,603, also reflect a higher percentage of female students at 61.3% compared to males at 38.7%. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent across all categories of undergraduate students, highlighting a growing presence of women in higher education, which is a positive indicator of gender equity in academic settings.

Further analysis of the subcategories of students reveals a diverse population, particularly among white, Asian, Latino, and other ethnic groups, although specific numbers for these subcategories were not fully disclosed. It is worth noting that the college's emphasis on inclusivity and diversity is crucial, especially in the context of current discussions surrounding equity in education.

Overall, while Pikes Peak State College maintains a robust student population, the notable gender disparities in certain categories could prompt further examination of recruitment strategies and support systems for male students, ensuring a balanced and inclusive educational environment for all.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Pikes Peak State College

The age distribution of students at Pikes Peak State College reveals some interesting trends. The data shows a significant representation of younger students, particularly those under 18 and in the 18-19 age bracket, which collectively account for approximately 43% of the total student population. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating a growing number of high school graduates pursuing higher education immediately after graduation, reflecting a societal shift towards valuing early academic engagement.

The enrollment figures indicate that as students age, particularly those in the 20-21 and 22-24 age ranges, their numbers start to decline. For instance, students aged 20-21 comprise about 16% of the total, and those aged 22-24 account for approximately 14%. The trend continues as the student body ages further, with only 2% of students aged 50-64 and a mere 0.5% over the age of 65. This decline in representation among older students may suggest barriers to education such as work commitments or financial constraints that commonly affect those in the workforce.

Moreover, the absence of graduate male and female students highlights that Pikes Peak State College primarily serves undergraduate populations, which could reflect its focus on community college offerings. In the current educational climate, where online learning and flexible schedules are becoming more common, there may be untapped potential for attracting a more diverse age range, especially among working adults seeking to further their education.

Overall, the data illustrates a youthful demographic at Pikes Peak State College, indicative of broader trends in higher education enrollment patterns across the U.S.

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%

54 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.8%2017: 1.0%2018: 1.0%2019: 1.0%2020: 1.0%2021: 0.7%2022: 0.8%2023: 1.0%2024: 1.3%2025: 0.4%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Pikes Peak State College

The data reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students at Pikes Peak State College over the years. Starting from a modest 0.87% in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates peaked at 1.05% in 2019 and 2020, indicating a growing interest in studying at this institution. However, the years leading up to 2020 saw a notable decline, with percentages dropping as low as 0.11% in 2008. This inconsistency may reflect broader trends in international education, influenced by factors such as economic conditions, global events, and changes in immigration policies.

The peak in 2019 coincides with a general global increase in international student mobility, driven by the reputation of U.S. institutions and the desire for diverse educational experiences. The subsequent decline in enrollment from 2020 to 2021 can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted travel and led to uncertainty in higher education.

Interestingly, the recovery in 2022 and 2023, with international student numbers reaching 119 and a percentage of 1.00%, suggests resilience and a potential rebound in interest among international students. This is a positive sign for Pikes Peak State College, indicating that the institution may continue to attract a diverse student body in the coming years.

Overall, while the data shows volatility, the commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for international students is evident, and the college's efforts could lead to a stronger international presence in the future.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$29,134

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$17,110
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$4,510
Room and board
$12,024
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 36% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$126M

Tuition and fees
$55.0M43.7%
Government grants and contracts
$46.1M36.7%
Investment return
$2.1M1.7%
Gifts and private grants
$1.6M1.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$217K0.2%
Other
$20.7M16.4%

Expenses$110M

Instruction
$52.0M47.1%
Academic support
$13.0M11.8%
Institutional support
$12.9M11.7%
Student services
$11.1M10.0%
Scholarships
$10.8M9.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$783K0.7%
Other
$9.9M9.0%

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
$68,597peers $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 schools near Pikes Peak State College:

  1. United States Air Force Academy - Ranked 7th, this prestigious institution is known for its rigorous academic programs and military training, preparing students for careers in the U.S. Air Force.

  2. Colorado College - With a rank of 33, this liberal arts college offers a unique block plan curriculum that allows students to focus on one course at a time.

  3. University of Denver - Ranked 124th, this private university is recognized for its diverse programs, research opportunities, and vibrant campus life.

  4. Colorado School of Mines - Located in Golden, Colorado, and ranked 76th, this school specializes in engineering and applied sciences, particularly in the fields of energy and the environment.

  5. University of Colorado Boulder - With a rank of 105, this flagship university is known for its research initiatives and beautiful campus, attracting students from all over the world.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective 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

Stalking
9
Arson
5
Motor vehicle theft
4
Burglary
3
Aggravated assault
2
Weapons arrests
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Pikes Peak State College

The crime data from Pikes Peak State College over the years presents a fluctuating landscape of campus safety. In 2013, the crime rate was at 0.86 incidents per 1,000 students, which marked a relatively moderate level of crime. However, this rate saw a significant spike in 2016, reaching 1.26 per 1,000 students, possibly indicating a period of increased incidents or reporting.

Interestingly, 2019 recorded the highest crime rate at 1.79 per 1,000 students, raising concerns about safety and security measures on campus. This spike was primarily due to incidents of armed arrests, which highlight the need for effective crime prevention strategies and possibly more robust campus security protocols. In contrast, the years 2020 and 2021 saw a notable decline in crime rates, dropping to 0.38 and 0.75 per 1,000 students respectively. This could be attributed to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activity and, subsequently, fewer opportunities for crime.

In the most recent year recorded, 2023, the crime rate remained relatively low at 0.67 per 1,000 students. While overall trends suggest that the college is moving towards a safer environment, the peaks in crime rates in certain years remind us that vigilance is essential. It is crucial for the institution to continuously assess and enhance its safety measures to ensure a secure learning environment for all students. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Pikes Peak Community College include Ron Stallworth (Retired police officer who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan), Alexa Knierim (Pair skater, 2022 World champion) and Max Aaron (Figure skater, 2013 US national champion).

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.