City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College
Out-of-state tuition
$15,150
In-state $12,090
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
3,274
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
25.5%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 28.6%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Kennedy-King College, part of the City Colleges of Chicago, is a vibrant community college located in the heart of Chicago's Englewood neighborhood. Established in 1969, the college serves a diverse student population, offering a wide array of academic programs and vocational training designed to meet the needs of the local community and beyond. The college's mission emphasizes access to quality education, and it aims to empower students to achieve their academic and career goals. Kennedy-King College is particularly noted for its strong emphasis on workforce development, providing programs in fields such as healthcare, culinary arts, and technology, which align with the demands of the job market.
The campus boasts modern facilities that support a dynamic learning environment. Students have access to state-of-the-art resources, including computer labs, science laboratories, and a culinary kitchen, which enhances their practical learning experiences. The college also fosters a rich cultural and social atmosphere, encouraging student engagement through various clubs, organizations, and community service opportunities. Additionally, Kennedy-King College places a strong emphasis on student support services, offering resources such as tutoring, counseling, and career services to help students navigate their educational journeys successfully. This combination of quality education, dedicated support, and community involvement makes Kennedy-King College a significant contributor to the educational landscape of Chicago.
Analysis of Key Trends at Kennedy-King College
At Kennedy-King College, several significant trends emerge when examining tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and the student-to-faculty ratio. Over the years, the in-state tuition for undergraduate students has seen a substantial increase from $5,961 in 2014 to $11,520 in 2024, demonstrating a 93% rise. This escalation in tuition could potentially hinder access to higher education for many students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, and indicates a growing financial burden for families.
In parallel, student enrollment has steadily declined from 6,234 in 2013 to just 2,237 in 2023. This alarming trend suggests that the increasing cost of education may be a contributing factor to the decrease in student numbers. As fewer students enroll, the college faces challenges in sustaining its academic programs and resources necessary for a vibrant educational environment.
Graduation rates have shown some fluctuation but indicate a positive trajectory in recent years, with the on-time graduation rate climbing from 7.8% in 2013 to 23.6% in 2023. While this improvement is noteworthy, the rates remain low overall, highlighting the need for enhanced support services and academic interventions to bolster student success.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has been relatively high, standing at 15:1 in 2023, down from 35:1 in 2013. A lower ratio typically suggests more personalized attention for students, which can improve retention and graduation rates. However, the declining enrollment may strain faculty resources, making it essential for the college to address these challenges to maintain quality education while attracting more students.
In conclusion, Kennedy-King College faces critical challenges in managing tuition rates and student enrollment while concurrently striving to improve graduation rates. Continued investment in student support and financial aid programs will be essential to reverse these trends and foster a more accessible educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Chicago
- Nearest international airport
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 6 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Katonja Webb Walker (President)
- Phone
- 7736025000
- Address
- 6301 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60621-2709
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Kennedy-King College
The graduation data from Kennedy-King College reveals several noteworthy trends within the various academic programs. Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program stands out with the highest number of graduates, totaling 72, representing a significant interest in this field, which often serves as a foundation for further studies or diverse career paths.
Conversely, the data indicates a lack of graduates in bachelor’s and master’s programs across most disciplines, with numerous categories reporting no graduates at all. This trend may suggest a focus on associate degrees, which could be attributed to the community college's mission to provide accessible education and workforce training. Indeed, the total number of associate graduates reaches 72 across various programs, showcasing the institution's effectiveness in equipping students with practical skills for immediate employment.
Furthermore, the figures reveal a modest presence of international students, particularly in the Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation, and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology program, where one international student graduated with an associate degree. This highlights the potential for growth in attracting a more diverse student body, as the global landscape of education becomes increasingly competitive.
In summary, while Kennedy-King College appears to excel in associate degree offerings, the absence of graduates in higher-level programs suggests a need for potential curriculum development or marketing strategies to enhance enrollment in bachelor’s and master’s programs. As the job market evolves, aligning academic offerings with industry demands will be crucial for the college's continued relevance and success.
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. | $36,061 | |
| General Studies. | $36,061 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Baking and Pastry Arts/Baker/Pastry Chef. | $28,370 | |
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | $28,370 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | |
| Construction Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
Students
3,274 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 49.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 996
- First-year undergraduates 322
- Transfers and others 1,956
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,274)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Kennedy-King College in 2023
The student demographics at City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College for 2023 reveal significant insights into the composition and gender distribution among different categories of students. A total of 358 new undergraduate students were enrolled, with a notable male representation at 62.3%, while females accounted for 37.7%. This gender disparity among new entrants is indicative of trends seen in many higher education institutions, where male students often outnumber their female counterparts in certain fields.
In contrast, the continuing undergraduate population presents a different picture, with 840 students enrolled, where females dominate at 63.0% against 37.0% male representation. This reversal may reflect a growing trend of female students persisting in their studies, possibly influenced by increasing support systems and initiatives aimed at retaining women in higher education.
Additionally, the transfer student demographic includes 165 individuals, with 58.2% being male and 41.8% female. This category is crucial as it can indicate the shifting dynamics of students transitioning from other institutions, which often reflects broader societal trends in education, such as the pursuit of better opportunities or specific academic programs.
The overall data highlights the importance of understanding gender dynamics in educational settings. The variation in male and female ratios across different student categories may inform college policies aimed at promoting inclusivity and support for underrepresented groups. As educational institutions continue to evolve, recognizing these trends will be essential for fostering a balanced and equitable learning environment.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Kennedy-King College
The age distribution of students at City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal patterns in higher education. The largest group of students is under 18 years old, comprising 42.4% of the total male population and 60.5% of the female population. This significant presence of younger students suggests that the college serves as a viable option for high school graduates looking to transition into higher education.
In the age category of 18-19, male students account for 32.9% of the total male enrollment, while female students represent 18.7% of the female enrollment. This disparity indicates that while many young men are enrolling immediately after high school, a notable number of young women are also pursuing their studies, albeit in smaller proportions.
The trend continues as we analyze older age groups; for instance, students aged 25-29 and 30-34 show a particularly high percentage of female enrollment (64.7% and 72.5%, respectively). This could reflect a growing trend of adult women returning to education, possibly driven by changing job market demands and the need for higher qualifications.
Interestingly, the enrollment of students aged 40 and above is relatively modest, yet they still represent a vital demographic in lifelong learning. The college's ability to cater to this diverse age range is crucial, as it aligns with the increasing emphasis on lifelong education and skills development in today’s fast-evolving job market.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of making higher education accessible to students of all ages, particularly as the landscape of the workforce demands continuous learning and adaptability.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
17 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Kennedy-King College
The data from Kennedy-King College reveals a notable trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting from 2009, the number of international undergraduate students was quite low, with only 8 out of 6,873 students, resulting in a mere 0.12% representation. This figure fluctuated in the following years, reaching a low of just 3 international students in 2011.
However, a significant increase occurred in 2014, where the percentage of international students surged to 0.24%, indicating a potential shift in the institution's appeal to international scholars. The most remarkable growth was observed in 2016, with 20 international students representing 0.50%. This upward trend continued, peaking in 2023, when international students accounted for 0.72% of the undergraduate population with 16 students.
This increase in international student enrollment could be attributed to various factors, including the college's efforts to enhance its global outreach, improve academic programs, and create a more inclusive environment for diverse students. It is essential to note that while the percentages reflect an improvement, they still indicate a relatively low representation of international students in the overall student body.
Given the current global climate and the importance of diversity in educational settings, Kennedy-King College might consider implementing strategies to further attract international students. This could include expanding partnerships with foreign institutions, offering scholarships, and improving support services for international students to enhance their academic experience. Overall, the growth in international enrollment is a positive indication of the college's evolving appeal, but there remains significant room for growth to achieve a more diverse student body.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$23,278
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $15,150
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $12,090
- Room and board
- $8,128
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 6%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$62.2M
Expenses$63.2M
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 NJCAA
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 30 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Soccer | 24 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Baseball | 23 | - |
| Soccer | 20 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Baseball | 24 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of ChicagoChicago · 2.3 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Illinois Institute of TechnologyChicago · 3.6 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago · 6.3 mi
U.S. News #95
-
DePaul UniversityChicago · 6.8 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 15.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 18.8 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 24.3 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 33.8 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Aurora UniversityAurora · 36.4 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College:
-
University of Chicago - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
-
Northwestern University - With a rank of 9, Northwestern is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and its diverse academic programs.
-
University of Illinois Chicago - Ranked 82nd, UIC offers a variety of programs and is recognized for its commitment to community service and engagement.
-
DePaul University - This university ranks 151st and is known for its strong focus on the arts, business, and education.
-
Loyola University Chicago - With a rank of 142, Loyola emphasizes social justice and community service as part of its educational mission.
-
University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th, Notre Dame is a highly prestigious institution known for its strong programs in business, law, and engineering.
These universities provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in various fields of study.
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 Kennedy-King College
The crime statistics at Kennedy-King College over the years reveal a notable trend in the safety of the campus environment. In 2013, the crime rate per 1000 students was alarmingly high at 13.03, but it has shown a significant decline in subsequent years, reaching a low of 2.63 in 2022. This downward trajectory is encouraging, indicating that measures taken to improve campus safety have been effective.
A closer look at the types of offenses shows fluctuations in the occurrences of serious crimes such as assault and robbery. Notably, the number of gun arrests and drug-related offenses has varied, with gun arrests peaking in 2019 at a rate of 15.31 per 1000 students. However, it is important to highlight that the trend appears to stabilize with fewer incidents reported in the later years, particularly in 2022, where only a few crimes were recorded.
The reduction in crime rates can be attributed to various factors such as increased campus security, community outreach programs, and preventive measures focusing on student wellbeing. Furthermore, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 may have influenced these statistics, as fewer students were on campus during this period.
Overall, the data suggests that Kennedy-King College has made significant strides in enhancing campus safety. Continued efforts to maintain low crime rates will be crucial in fostering a secure and supportive environment for students. For more insights on crime rate calculations, you can refer to the following 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.