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Public, 2-year

Garden City Community College

Garden City, Kansas · www.gcccks.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$4,320

In-state $3,750

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

2,079

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

41.1%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 42.5%

Peer median 33.7%

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

About

Garden City Community College (GCCC) is a prominent institution located in Garden City, Kansas, known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. Established in 1919, GCCC has developed a strong reputation for its diverse range of academic programs and its dedication to student success. The college offers over 100 degree and certificate programs, including fields such as healthcare, business, technology, and the arts. This extensive curriculum is designed to meet the needs of a diverse student body and equips graduates with the skills necessary for successful careers.

The college prides itself on its vibrant campus culture and community engagement. GCCC actively promotes a sense of belonging among its students through various extracurricular activities, including athletics, student organizations, and cultural events. The college’s motto, “Empowering Lives Through Education,” reflects its mission to inspire students to achieve their personal and professional goals. With modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, advanced technology labs, and athletic complexes, GCCC provides an enriching environment for learning and personal growth. Furthermore, the college boasts a dedicated faculty who are committed to mentoring and guiding students throughout their academic journey. This supportive atmosphere, combined with a focus on practical experience and community involvement, makes Garden City Community College a great choice for students seeking a well-rounded education.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

The data from Garden City Community College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. First, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen from $2,560 in 2014 to $3,630 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 42% over this decade. For out-of-state students, the tuition has increased from $3,168 to $4,200, a rise of about 32%. This steady increase in tuition can be a significant burden on students and their families, especially as student debt continues to be a pressing issue nationwide.

In terms of graduation rates, there has been a notable improvement in the percentage of students graduating on time. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students increased from 23.33% in 2014 to 37.24% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the institution may be implementing successful strategies to enhance student support and academic success. Additionally, the 150% graduation rate also saw an increase, indicating that students are not only graduating but doing so in a more timely manner compared to previous years.

Retention rates have also shown a positive trend, with figures rising from approximately 55.43% in 2014 to 64.79% in 2023. This improvement implies that more students are choosing to continue their education at the institution, suggesting a growing sense of community and satisfaction among the student body.

Together, these factors highlight the college's ongoing efforts to balance affordability with academic success. As tuition costs rise, the institution's focus on improving graduation and retention rates is crucial for maintaining its reputation and ensuring that students receive a valuable education without incurring unmanageable debt.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Wichita, about 190 mi
Nearest international airport
Denver International Airport (DEN), about 240 mi
Garden City, Kansas
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Ryan Ruda (President)
Phone
6202767611571
City
Garden City, Kansas
Address
801 N Campus Dr, Garden City, KS 67846-6333

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate38233 international (8.6%)
Top 9 Associate majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
315
Agricultural Mechanics and Equipment/Machine Technology/Technician
17
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
17
General Studies
11
Agricultural and Food Products Processing
8
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic)
5
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General
4
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician
3
Agricultural Production Operations, General
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Garden City Community College

The graduation data from Garden City Community College in 2023 reveals some noteworthy insights into the distribution of degrees across various programs. A significant observation is the dominance of associate degrees, particularly in Liberal Arts and Sciences, which graduated 252 individuals, accounting for approximately 56% of the total associate degree graduates. This suggests a strong interest in general education, which may serve as a foundation for further academic pursuits or entry into diverse career fields.

In contrast, specialized programs such as Registered Nursing and Emergency Medical Technology have also produced a respectable number of graduates, with 18 and 9 individuals respectively. These figures indicate a continued demand for healthcare professionals, aligning with national trends that emphasize the importance of healthcare education in response to an aging population and increasing health service needs.

Interestingly, across all programs, there were no graduates reported for bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees. This could indicate a focus on associate degrees at the community college level, where students often pursue immediate employment opportunities or transfer to four-year institutions for further education. The absence of international students graduating in any category highlights a potential area for growth, as diversifying the student body can enhance the educational experience and contribute to a more global perspective within the college.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of associate degree programs in meeting local workforce needs, particularly in fields such as healthcare and liberal studies. The lack of higher degree graduates may reflect the community college's mission to provide accessible education and vocational training rather than advanced academic research or professional degrees.

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 326 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$31,347
General Studies.$31,347
Agricultural has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Agricultural Mechanics and Equipment/Machine Technology/Technician.$60,547
Agricultural Production Operations, General.-
Agricultural and Food Products Processing.-
Health professionshas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Culinary has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.$22,148
Mechanic and repair has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-

Students

2,079 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 67.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,079)

Hispanic
983 · 47.3%
White
675 · 32.5%
Black
131 · 6.3%
International
110 · 5.3%
Unknown
57 · 2.7%
Two or more races
51 · 2.5%
Asian
50 · 2.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
25.4%
18–19
39.2%
20–21
14.7%
22–24
6.3%
25 and over
14.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Garden City Community College in 2023

In 2023, Garden City Community College has showcased a diverse student body across various classifications. The total enrollment of undergraduate freshmen stands at 546 students, with a slight male majority at 51.3% compared to 48.7% female students. This balance reflects a growing inclusion of both genders in higher education, aligning with broader trends seen across colleges nationwide.

Among undergraduate seniors, the enrollment is significantly higher, with 723 students. Interestingly, the gender ratio here shifts, showing a more substantial female presence at 58.4%, compared to 41.6% males. This trend could suggest that female students are more likely to persist in their studies and complete their undergraduate degrees, contributing to the ongoing conversation about gender dynamics in education.

The undergraduate transfer student population consists of 107 students, with a majority of 54.2% males. This group’s presence indicates a healthy influx of students seeking to further their education, possibly influenced by transfer-friendly policies that many institutions have adopted.

Though the data on graduate students and specific ethnic compositions is incomplete, the overall figures suggest a trend towards increasing diversity in higher education. As institutions strive to promote inclusivity, understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by different demographics will be crucial. The shifts in gender ratios and the total number of students enrolled reflect ongoing changes in educational priorities and societal norms, which are critical for institutions aiming for equitable educational environments.

Demographic Analysis of Garden City Community College Students in 2023

The age composition of students at Garden City Community College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. Notably, the largest group is comprised of students under 18, with a total of 347 students, which accounts for approximately 34% of the entire student population. This suggests that the college is a favored choice for younger students, potentially due to its community-oriented environment and accessible programs.

The 18-19 age group follows closely, making up about 40% of the student population, with 824 students between undergraduate males and females. This age range typically represents first-year college students, indicating a healthy influx of new students into the institution.

As we move into older age brackets, the number of students begins to decline significantly. For instance, students aged 20-21 constitute around 10% of the population, while the groups aged 22-24 and older show a noticeable decrease. This pattern could be attributed to various factors, including the increasing responsibilities and life events that may prevent older individuals from pursuing higher education full-time.

Moreover, the data highlights a stark gender disparity in certain age groups, particularly in the older demographics, where the number of male students is consistently lower than that of female students. This trend is reflected across various age categories, raising questions about the factors influencing these patterns, such as societal expectations or the availability of flexible learning options for women.

Overall, the demographic data from Garden City Community College presents a young and predominantly female student body, with implications for the institution's future programming and support services tailored to diverse age groups and needs.

International Students

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

Undergraduates5.3%

110 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.0%2017: 2.0%2018: 1.9%2019: 1.0%2020: 2.3%2021: 1.9%2022: 3.4%2023: 3.2%2024: 4.3%2025: 5.3%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Garden City Community College

The data on international student enrollment at Garden City Community College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. From 2007 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has varied considerably, ranging from a mere 2 students in 2015 to a peak of 88 in 2013. This peak indicates that the institution likely made strategic efforts to attract more international students during that year, possibly through enhanced recruitment campaigns or partnerships with foreign educational institutions.

The international student percentage among undergraduates has also shown a notable increase, especially from 2013 onward, where it reached as high as 4.27% in 2013. This growth suggests a rising interest in the college among international students, possibly due to its academic offerings or supportive environment for diverse populations.

However, the data also shows a decline in the total number of international students enrolled in subsequent years, despite some recovery in the last few years. For instance, the percentage of international students remained above 3% in 2022 and 2023, which indicates a stable, albeit smaller, international student community compared to the peak.

This trend can be influenced by various external factors, including changes in U.S. immigration policies, global economic conditions, and shifts in international student preferences. The pandemic, for instance, has drastically affected international travel and education, impacting enrollments across many institutions. As colleges and universities continue to adapt to these changes, maintaining a diverse student body remains a crucial aspect of their strategy for providing a rich educational experience.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$11,120

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$4,320
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$3,750
Room and board
$6,800
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 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 16%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$36.4M

Government grants and contracts
$30.2M82.9%
Tuition and fees
$3.0M8.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.3M3.5%
Gifts and private grants
$1.0M2.7%
Investment return
$499K1.4%
Other
$451K1.2%

Expenses$41.7M

Instruction
$13.0M31.1%
Student services
$8.5M20.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.8M13.9%
Institutional support
$5.2M12.5%
Academic support
$3.7M8.9%
Scholarships
$1.8M4.3%
Public service
$173K0.4%
Other
$3.5M8.5%

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
$64,491peers $68,588
Professor
$73,183peers $79,972
Associate professor
$63,024peers $69,677
Assistant professor
$63,310peers $62,785

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
2025
NJCAA Division I MENWOMEN
Football74-
Soccer3219
Baseball45-
Track and Field (Indoor)2416
Track and Field (Outdoor)2415
Basketball1212
Softball-21
Rodeo144
Cross Country115
Volleyball-16
Golf84
2024
NJCAA Division IMENWOMEN
Football59-
Baseball43-
Soccer2518
Track and Field (Indoor)2417
Track and Field (Outdoor)2215
Softball-21
Basketball128
Rodeo812
Golf73
Cross Country64
Volleyball-10
2023
NJCAA Division IMENWOMEN
Football65-
Track and Field (Outdoor)3516
Soccer2622
Baseball31-
Cross Country1413
Basketball1113
Rodeo1211
Softball-19
Volleyball-11
Golf6-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Garden City Community College:

  1. United States Air Force Academy - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious academy is known for its rigorous academic program and military training, preparing students for leadership roles in the U.S. Air Force.

  2. Colorado College - With a ranking of 33, Colorado College is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes experiential learning and offers a unique block plan for courses.

  3. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124th, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in areas such as meteorology, engineering, and business.

  4. University of Colorado Boulder - With a ranking of 105, this university is recognized for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  5. Kansas State University - Ranked 170th, K-State is known for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and business, providing a strong foundation for students in various fields.

These institutions not only contribute to the educational landscape of the region but also offer diverse opportunities for students pursuing higher education.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
87
Drug referrals
32
Drug arrests
5
Burglary
4
Weapons referrals
3
Aggravated assault
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Garden City Community College

The crime statistics from Garden City Community College over the years reveal significant fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 students. Notably, the highest recorded rate occurred in 2016 at 17.34 incidents per 1,000 students, while the lowest was in 2022 at just 5.91. This suggests a general downward trend in crime rates over recent years, particularly from 2021 to 2022, where there was a dramatic decrease from 10.60 to 5.91.

The data indicates that incidents of gun arrests have been a consistent issue, contributing notably to the overall crime statistics. In contrast, drug and alcohol-related arrests also show varying trends, highlighting the need for ongoing attention to these areas. For instance, in 2018, there was a spike in gun-related incidents, reflecting a potential area of concern for campus safety.

These trends could be reflective of broader societal changes, such as enhanced safety protocols, community engagement efforts, or even the impact of external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have influenced student behavior and campus life.

Overall, while the decrease in crime rates is encouraging, the college must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the underlying issues contributing to these incidents. Continuous monitoring and community involvement are essential to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. For further insights into crime rate calculations, please refer to this link.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Garden City Community College include Darvis Patton (Sprinter, 2003 World Championships 200m silver medalist), Tyreek Hill (NFL wide receiver drafted by the Chiefs in 2016) and Keith Smart (Former basketball player and coach).

More alumni (7, by field)

Sports

  • Raphaël Desroses 1980–

    French former professional basketball player

    Also attended: College of Central Florida

  • Amir Abdur-Rahim 1981–2024

    Head coach of South Florida men's basketball

    Also attended: Southeastern Louisiana University

  • Phil Loadholt 1986–

    Former NFL offensive tackle and college line coach

    Also attended: University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

  • Nick Marshall 1992–

    Former NFL and CFL cornerback

    Also attended: Auburn University

  • C. J. Jones 1980–

    Former professional football wide receiver

    Also attended: University of Iowa

  • Derrick Pope 1982–

    Former NFL linebacker drafted by the Miami Dolphins

  • Tyson Thompson 1981–

    Former Dallas Cowboys running back

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.