Leeward Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$8,350
In-state $3,214
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
6,471
Student-faculty ratio 21:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
31.6%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 37.6%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Leeward Community College (LCC), located in Pearl City, Hawaii, is a vibrant institution that serves as a gateway to higher education for many students in the region. Founded in 1970, LCC is part of the University of Hawaii system and is dedicated to providing accessible education and diverse learning opportunities. The college offers a wide range of programs, including associate degrees and certificates in fields such as liberal arts, business, health sciences, and technology. This variety allows students to tailor their educational paths according to their interests and career aspirations. The college emphasizes student success, offering comprehensive support services including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, which significantly enhance the overall student experience.
In addition to its strong academic offerings, Leeward Community College fosters a rich campus culture that encourages personal growth and community engagement. The college is known for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, reflecting the unique cultural landscape of Hawaii. Students are actively involved in various clubs, organizations, and events that promote cultural awareness and social responsibility. The campus features modern facilities, such as advanced classrooms, computer labs, and recreational areas, which provide a conducive learning environment. Furthermore, LCC has a strong emphasis on sports and athletics, offering various programs that promote teamwork and physical fitness. With its comprehensive educational approach and supportive community, Leeward Community College stands out as an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded college experience in Hawaii.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Leeward Community College
Leeward Community College has exhibited notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in graduation rates, student retention, and tuition costs. The graduation rates for undergraduate students have shown a promising upward trajectory, with the on-time graduation rate increasing from approximately 2.58% in 2013 to 9.38% in 2023, and the extended graduation rate rising from 13.20% to 27.17% over the same period. This improvement suggests that the college has successfully implemented strategies to enhance student support and academic success, which is critical in today’s competitive educational landscape.
Additionally, the retention rate has also seen a significant increase, from around 64.95% in 2013 to 69.14% in 2023. This steady rise indicates a growing commitment to student engagement and satisfaction, which could be attributed to improved academic resources and community-building initiatives.
On the financial side, tuition costs have steadily increased, with in-state tuition rising from $2,599 in 2014 to $3,214 in 2024, while out-of-state tuition has grown from $7,351 to $8,350 during the same timeframe. This trend reflects a broader national pattern of rising tuition costs, which can affect accessibility and affordability for prospective students. As colleges strive to balance quality education with financial sustainability, these rising costs highlight the importance of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to support students.
In summary, while Leeward Community College has made commendable strides in improving graduation and retention rates, it faces ongoing challenges related to the rising costs of education. Addressing these financial barriers will be crucial for maintaining enrollment levels and ensuring that students can successfully complete their studies.
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Honolulu, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), about 6 mi
- Also known as
- Leeward CC / LeeCC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Carlos G. Peñaloza, PhD (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 8084550011
- City
- Pearl City, Hawaii
- Address
- 96-045 Ala Ike, Pearl City, HI 96782-3366
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Leeward Community College
The graduation data from Leeward Community College for 2023 presents a clear picture of the trends in various academic fields. Notably, the highest number of graduates is seen in the Liberal Arts and Sciences, with an impressive total of 574 graduates. This reflects the ongoing importance and popularity of liberal arts education, which equips students with critical thinking and communication skills essential in today's job market.
In the field of Health Information and Medical Records Technology, there were 17 graduates, indicating a steady interest in healthcare-related professions. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in data management and record-keeping roles, which are vital for efficient healthcare delivery.
Interestingly, the data shows a significant number of graduates in the Mechanical Technology category, with 29 students completing their studies. This is indicative of a growing interest in technical and engineering fields, which can be attributed to the ongoing advancements in technology and manufacturing processes.
On the other hand, the data reveals a lack of graduates in the bachelor's and master's degree programs across various disciplines, as all entries for these categories show zero graduates. This could suggest a potential area for growth and development for the institution, as expanding these programs might attract more students looking for advanced education opportunities.
Furthermore, the presence of international students in certain associate degree programs, such as the one in Office Management, highlights the global appeal of these courses. However, the overall low numbers of international graduates may point to challenges the college faces in attracting students from abroad, which could be addressed through enhanced marketing strategies and support services.
In summary, while the data reflects strong enrollment in certain associate degree programs, there are clear opportunities for Leeward Community College to expand its offerings and attract a more diverse student population.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $31,214 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $23,524 | |
| Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Office Management and Supervision. | $42,731 | |
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | |
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| High Performance and Custom Engine Technician/Mechanic. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Teacher Assistant/Aide. | $28,107-$72,275 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking and Related Culinary Arts, General. | $51,380 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Automation Engineer Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| American Indian/Native American Studies. | - |
Students
6,471 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 71.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,133
- First-year undergraduates 566
- Transfers and others 3,772
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,471)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at Leeward Community College in 2023
In 2023, Leeward Community College exhibited a diverse student body with specific trends in gender and ethnic representation. The total number of undergraduate freshmen was 825, with a notable gender distribution where 46.4% were male and 53.6% were female. This indicates a slight female majority, a trend that is becoming increasingly common in higher education institutions across the United States.
Among the undergraduate juniors, the enrollment was significantly higher at 2,404 students. The gender ratio shifts further, with only 38.9% male and 61.1% female students, emphasizing the growing female presence in undergraduate programs. The trend continues with undergraduate transfer students, where 34.9% were male and 65.1% female, reinforcing the observation of a strong female demographic in higher education.
Additionally, the overall student population included 2,600 non-degree seeking students, exhibiting the lowest male representation at 33.5%. The increasing participation of female students across all categories raises important discussions about gender dynamics within educational environments and the potential implications for future workforce participation.
While the data lacks specific details on ethnic breakdowns for certain categories, it is essential to consider the broader context of educational equity and representation. As institutions strive for inclusivity, understanding the intersectionality of gender and race will be crucial in shaping policies and practices that support all students. Overall, the student demographic data from Leeward Community College highlights the ongoing evolution of student populations and the importance of fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Leeward Community College
The age demographic data from Leeward Community College presents a clear picture of the student body composition in 2023. The majority of students are under 24 years old, with a significant number of them under 18, aged 18-19, and in the 20-21 bracket. Specifically, students under 18 constitute approximately 30.9% of the total student population, while those aged 18-19 account for around 37.5%. These figures highlight the college's role in catering to younger students, likely transitioning from high school to higher education.
Interestingly, there are no graduate male or female students reported, indicating that the institution may primarily serve undergraduate students or that graduate programs are not offered. This absence of graduate demographics may suggest a need for broader program offerings to attract non-traditional students or those seeking advanced degrees.
As students age, their numbers gradually decline. For instance, the 25-29 age group makes up about 12.6% of the total, while those aged 30-34 and older have even fewer participants, constituting around 5.1% and 1.5% respectively. This trend is common in community colleges, which often attract younger individuals or those seeking a career change rather than older, established professionals returning for further education.
In conclusion, the student age distribution at Leeward Community College reflects broader trends in community colleges across the United States, emphasizing younger students while revealing potential opportunities for expanding graduate programs to engage a wider demographic.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
85 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Leeward Community College
The data reveals notable trends in the enrollment of international students at Leeward Community College over the years from 2004 to 2023. Initially, the number of international undergraduate students was relatively low, peaking at just 0.50% of the total undergraduate population in 2004. However, a gradual increase can be observed, with international students constituting about 1.46% of the undergraduate body by 2023.
The most significant growth occurred between 2015 and 2018, where the percentage of international students rose from 1.05% to 1.91%. This increase may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are actively promoting diversity and global engagement within their campuses. The upward trajectory in international student enrollment aligns with the increasing globalization of education, which has been accelerated by developments in technology and communication.
Interestingly, the data shows some fluctuations, particularly in 2016 and 2017, where international student numbers reached their highest percentage at 1.67%. This spike may have been influenced by various factors, including marketing initiatives targeting international students or changes in immigration policies that made studying in the U.S. more attractive.
The decline in numbers noted in the recent years, especially in 2022 and 2023, raises concerns about potential challenges faced by international students, such as travel restrictions and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global mobility. Overall, while the college has witnessed a positive trend in international student enrollment, maintaining this growth will require ongoing efforts to create a welcoming environment and address the challenges that international students may encounter.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$30,851
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $8,350
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $3,214
- Room and board
- $22,501
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 5% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 70%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$75.7M
Expenses$75.2M
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
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 universities surrounding Leeward Community College:
-
University of Hawaii at Manoa - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, this institution is part of the University of Hawaii system and offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of California-Berkeley - With a prestigious rank of 15, UC Berkeley is renowned for its research and academic excellence across various disciplines.
-
Stanford University - As one of the top universities in the world, Stanford holds a rank of 3. It is known for its strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - UCLA is ranked 15 and is famous for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs, particularly in the arts and sciences.
-
University of San Francisco - Ranked 115, this private university is known for its commitment to social justice and offers a diverse range of programs.
These institutions represent a mix of strong academic programs and vibrant campus communities, making them significant educational resources in the area.
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 Statistics at Leeward Community College
The crime statistics at Leeward Community College over the years reveal fluctuating patterns in arrest and incident rates among students. In 2013, the college reported a notable crime rate of 0.75 per 1,000 students, which peaked in 2016 at 0.96, indicating a concerning spike in criminal activity. However, the subsequent years saw a downward trend, with rates dropping to as low as 0.16 in both 2021 and 2023, suggesting improvements in campus safety and crime prevention measures.
The data highlights significant variations in specific crime categories. For instance, the number of gun-related arrests appears to have fluctuated, with no recorded incidents in multiple years, indicating a potential focus on reducing gun violence on campus. Conversely, drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents seem to have remained relatively low, which may reflect the college's commitment to fostering a safe learning environment.
Overall, the consistent reduction in crime rates in recent years is promising and may suggest effective interventions and a growing awareness of safety among the student body. Nevertheless, continuous monitoring and proactive strategies are essential to maintain and further improve campus safety. Engaging students in safety initiatives and encouraging a culture of reporting can further enhance the security of the campus community. For anyone interested in understanding crime rates better, more information can be found through resources such as the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Leeward Community College include Tulsi Gabbard (Former US Director of National Intelligence), Jennifer Carroll (18th Lieutenant Governor of Florida) and Reggie Cross (Former professional basketball player).
-
Tulsi Gabbard 1981–
Former US Director of National Intelligence
-
Jennifer Carroll 1959–
18th Lieutenant Governor of Florida
-
Reggie Cross 1966–
Former 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.