Colby Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$5,830
In-state $4,290
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
1,409
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
57.3%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 58.2%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Colby Community College, located in Colby, Kansas, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. Established in 1966, the college offers a diverse range of academic programs, including associate degrees and certificates in various fields such as health sciences, business, agriculture, and liberal arts. This broad selection allows students to tailor their education to their career goals and interests. The college emphasizes practical learning experiences, and many programs include hands-on training that prepares students for the workforce or further education.
One of the standout features of Colby Community College is its dedication to student success and community engagement. The college prides itself on its small class sizes, which facilitate personalized attention from faculty members. This close-knit atmosphere contributes to a strong sense of community among students and staff alike. Additionally, the college is actively involved in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, cultural events, and clubs, which enrich the student experience. With a focus on holistic development, Colby Community College not only equips students with academic knowledge but also fosters life skills and leadership qualities, making it a valuable stepping stone for students pursuing their aspirations.
Analysis of Key Factors Influencing Student Experience at Colby Community College
Colby Community College has demonstrated notable trends in tuition fees, student retention rates, and graduation rates over recent years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a steady increase, rising from $3,136 in 2014 to $4,196 in 2024, which represents a significant burden on students and their families. This trend highlights the escalating costs associated with higher education, which can deter prospective students from pursuing their degrees, especially those from lower-income backgrounds.
In terms of student retention, Colby Community College has shown improvement, with retention rates climbing from approximately 57% in 2013 to around 69% in 2023. This upward trajectory suggests that the institution is becoming more effective in supporting students through their academic journeys. Retention is a critical metric, as higher rates often correlate with better student satisfaction and improved graduation outcomes.
Graduation rates, however, tell a more complex story. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has fluctuated significantly, reaching a low of about 15% in 2017 and rebounding to approximately 46% in 2023. This variability may reflect changes in institutional support, student engagement, or external factors affecting students’ abilities to complete their studies in the expected time frame.
Moreover, the gender ratio within the college has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently making up a larger proportion of the undergraduate population. This demographic trend could influence the campus culture and support systems in place, potentially fostering an environment that is more accommodating to female students.
In conclusion, while Colby Community College has made strides in enhancing retention and addressing the challenges of rising tuition costs, the fluctuations in graduation rates suggest a need for ongoing assessment and improvement of student support services. Balancing affordability and educational success remains crucial for the institution's future.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Colorado Springs, about 200 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Denver International Airport (DEN), about 200 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Seth Carter (President)
- Phone
- 7854623984
- Address
- 1255 S Range, Colby, KS 67701
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Colby Community College
The graduation data from Colby Community College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the distribution of associate degrees across various fields. Notably, the highest number of graduates with associate degrees comes from the Liberal Arts and Sciences, with 169 graduates, which represents a significant 32.4% of the total associate degrees awarded. This trend aligns with the broader educational landscape, where general studies often attract a diverse student body seeking foundational knowledge.
In contrast, fields such as Veterinary Technology and Physical Therapy Assistant also show notable graduation numbers, with 29 and 14 graduates, respectively. These programs reflect the increasing demand for skilled professionals in healthcare, a trend accelerated by the ongoing focus on health services following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interestingly, there are no international students graduating from any of the programs, indicating a potential area for growth in attracting global talent. This could be a strategic focus for the college, particularly in programs that are traditionally popular among international students, such as Business and Health Sciences.
Moreover, the absence of graduates in bachelor, master, and doctorate programs suggests that Colby Community College primarily serves as a stepping stone for students aiming for associate degrees. This emphasizes the college's role in providing accessible education and vocational training, which is crucial for workforce development in various industries.
Overall, while the data showcases strengths in certain associate programs, it also highlights areas where the college could enhance 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. | $28,719 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Farm/Farm and Ranch Management. | - | |
| Horse Husbandry/Equine Science and Management. | - | |
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant. | $38,494 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Systems Installation and Repair Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - |
Students
1,409 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 65.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 456
- First-year undergraduates 195
- Transfers and others 758
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,409)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Colby Community College in 2023
In 2023, Colby Community College showcases a diverse student body with a noteworthy gender distribution. The total number of students categorized as new undergraduates is 242, with a male representation of 46.3% and female representation of 53.7%. This slight female majority is indicative of a broader trend seen in higher education, where female enrollment often exceeds that of males.
The continuing undergraduate students number 493, exhibiting a more pronounced gender disparity, where only 21.9% are male and a substantial 78.1% are female. This trend raises questions about retention rates and the factors impacting male students' continued enrollment in community college settings.
For undergraduate transfer students, the gender ratio is more balanced but still leans towards female, with males at 31.1% and females at 68.9%. Overall, the data reflects a growing female presence in higher education, which could be attributed to various socioeconomic factors influencing educational attainment.
Additionally, the racial composition indicates that among the new undergraduates, 144 are White, representing 31.3% of their group, while detailed demographics for other student categories remain unreported. This suggests an opportunity for the college to enhance its outreach efforts to underrepresented groups to foster a more inclusive environment.
The overall student demographic trends at Colby Community College mirror national patterns in higher education, where increasing female enrollment and diversity are critical areas of focus for institutions aiming to address equity and access in education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Colby Community College
The age distribution data for students at Colby Community College in 2023 reveals some interesting trends regarding the demographics of the student body. Notably, the largest age group among both male and female students is under 18, with 95 male and 211 female students. This suggests that Colby attracts a significant number of high school graduates, indicating its role as a gateway for young learners entering higher education.
The 18-19 age group also comprises a substantial portion of the student population, with 163 male and 273 female students. This pattern continues to show a predominance of female students, with females consistently outnumbering males across all age categories. This aligns with broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been rising, reflecting societal shifts in higher education participation.
Interestingly, as age increases, the number of students decreases significantly. For instance, only 12 male students and 78 female students fall within the 25-29 age range, indicating that older students may be less represented at Colby. This could reflect the challenges faced by non-traditional students, such as balancing work and family responsibilities while seeking higher education.
Furthermore, the data shows that the graduate student population is non-existent in this dataset, indicating that Colby Community College primarily serves undergraduate students. This reinforces the institution's mission to provide foundational education rather than advanced degrees.
Overall, these insights underscore the importance of community colleges in providing accessible education to young students while also highlighting the need for strategies to attract and retain older, non-traditional students. As higher education continues to evolve, understanding these demographics will be crucial for colleges aiming to meet the diverse needs of their student populations.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
77 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Colby Community College
The data on international student enrollment at Colby Community College reveals interesting trends over the years, particularly in the undergraduate program. Starting in 2004, the percentage of international students among undergraduates has seen a generally increasing trend, peaking at 4.47% in 2020. This indicates a growing diversity within the student body, which can enhance the educational experience for all students by fostering a multicultural environment.
The early years show modest numbers, with percentages below 2%, but by 2016, there was a noticeable increase, culminating in the highest percentage in 2020. The fluctuations in enrollment numbers could reflect broader global trends, such as changes in immigration policies, economic factors, or shifts in the international education landscape, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted student mobility worldwide.
In contrast, the data does not provide information on graduate student enrollment, leaving a gap in understanding the overall diversity at the graduate level. It would be beneficial for the college to track and report these figures to present a more comprehensive picture of its international engagement.
Overall, the increase in international undergraduate students is a positive trend for Colby Community College, showcasing its commitment to attracting diverse talent. As global education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for the college to adapt and respond to these changes to maintain and further enhance its international presence.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$14,392
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $5,830
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,290
- Room and board
- $8,562
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 53%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$24.2M
Expenses$20.4M
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 25 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 24 | 14 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Basketball | 12 | 12 |
| Wrestling | 16 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Equestrian | - | 11 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 4 |
| Rodeo | - | - |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 56 | 35 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Wrestling | 21 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| Rodeo | - | - |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 58 | 31 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 12 | 11 |
| Wrestling | 18 | - |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| Rodeo | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Colorado DenverDenver · 203.2 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Colorado CollegeColorado Springs · 205.4 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
United States Air Force AcademyUSAF Academy · 207.1 mi
Liberal Arts #11
-
University of DenverDenver · 209.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Regis UniversityDenver · 213.7 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Colorado School of MinesGolden · 223.6 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of Colorado BoulderBoulder · 228.4 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Colorado State University-Fort CollinsFort Collins · 228.7 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 233.3 mi
U.S. News #288
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Colby Community College:
-
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus - Ranked 236 in the 2024 US News rankings, this institution offers a unique combination of urban campus life with a focus on health sciences and professional education.
-
Colorado College - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 33rd. Known for its innovative Block Plan, it allows students to immerse themselves fully in one subject at a time.
-
United States Air Force Academy - Ranked 7th, this prestigious military academy offers a rigorous academic program combined with military training and leadership development.
-
University of Denver - With a ranking of 124, this comprehensive university is recognized for its commitment to research and a diverse range of academic programs.
-
Colorado School of Mines - Ranked 76th, this institution specializes in engineering and applied sciences, particularly related to natural resources and energy.
-
University of Nebraska-Lincoln - This university, ranked 159th, offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing research and community engagement.
-
Creighton University - A Jesuit institution ranked 124th, known for its strong programs in health sciences, business, and law.
These schools provide a range of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence 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 Trends at Colby Community College
The crime rates at Colby Community College have shown a significant downward trend from 2013 to 2018. The highest recorded rate was in 2013, with an average of 24.24 incidents per 1000 students, which is concerning. However, from 2014 onward, there has been a consistent decline, reaching a low of 0.89 incidents per 1000 students in 2018. This notable decrease can be attributed to various factors, including increased safety measures, better campus security, and community outreach programs.
Despite the overall decline, crime rates experienced a slight uptick in the following years, particularly in 2023, where the rate rose to 9.28 incidents per 1000 students. This resurgence might warrant further investigation into the underlying causes, such as changes in campus policies or external factors affecting student behavior. Notably, the incidences of gun-related arrests have remained a concern throughout the years, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure student safety.
It is also essential to consider the broader context of campus safety across the United States. Many colleges and universities are grappling with similar issues, reflecting a nationwide trend that requires a collaborative approach to address effectively. Continuous evaluation of safety protocols, educational programs on substance abuse, and mental health support can contribute to further reducing crime rates in the future.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Colby Community College include Daniel Cormier (Former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion), Bekzod Abdurakhmonov (Uzbekistani freestyle wrestler and MMA fighter) and CB Dollaway (Retired mixed martial artist formerly in the UFC).
-
Daniel Cormier 1979–
Former UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight champion
-
Bekzod Abdurakhmonov 1990–
Uzbekistani freestyle wrestler and MMA fighter
-
CB Dollaway 1983–
Retired mixed martial artist formerly in the UFC
-
Mark Schultz 1970–
Contemporary Christian music artist
-
Brennan Ward 1988–
Mixed martial artist and bare knuckle boxer
-
Corey Hill 1978–2015
American mixed martial artist
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.