Seward County Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$5,408
In-state $4,160
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
2,092
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
46.4%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 47.6%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Seward County Community College (SCCC), located in Liberal, Kansas, is renowned for its commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering a vibrant learning environment. Established in 1967, the college serves as a crucial educational resource for the local community and surrounding areas. SCCC emphasizes accessibility and affordability, offering a range of academic programs, including associate degrees and certificates in various fields such as health sciences, business, and agriculture. The college's motto, "Your Future Starts Here," reflects its dedication to guiding students toward successful careers and further education.
The campus is equipped with modern facilities that support both academic and extracurricular activities. Students benefit from state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and a comprehensive library, which enhance their learning experience. SCCC also boasts a strong focus on student life, providing numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that encourage engagement and personal growth. The college's athletics teams, known as the Saints, compete in various sports, promoting teamwork and school spirit. With a diverse student body and a commitment to community involvement, SCCC fosters a welcoming atmosphere where students can thrive academically and socially, preparing them for a successful future.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Seward County Community College
Seward County Community College has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the past decade. One significant observation is the rising tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, in-state tuition was $2,432, which increased to $3,744 in 2023, marking a substantial rise of approximately 54%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition rose from $3,584 to $4,928, reflecting an increase of around 37%. This trend may pose challenges for students and families seeking affordable education, especially considering the overall inflation in educational costs across the country.
Another critical area of focus is the graduation rates, which indicate student success and institutional effectiveness. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated over the years, with a low of 25.68% in 2015 and a high of 36.08% in 2018. However, by 2023, the rate improved to 36.84%. This suggests that while there are challenges, the institution is making strides in enhancing student completion rates, which can be attributed to various support initiatives and academic programs.
Moreover, the retention rates have shown a slight decline, dipping from a high of around 66% in 2013 to approximately 59.71% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about student engagement and satisfaction, which are critical for maintaining enrollment numbers and ensuring successful educational outcomes.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shifted slightly, with male enrollment decreasing from 42.93% in 2014 to 36.32% in 2023. This could indicate broader societal trends in gender enrollment in higher education, where female students are increasingly pursuing higher education degrees.
Overall, while Seward County Community College faces challenges related to rising tuition and student retention, improvements in graduation rates show potential for positive change. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the college to attract and retain students effectively.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Wichita, about 200 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Denver International Airport (DEN), about 280 mi
- Also known as
- SCCC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Mr. Brad Bennett (President)
- Phone
- 6206241951
- Address
- 1801 N. Kansas Ave., Liberal, KS 67901
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Seward County Community College (2023)
The graduation data from Seward County Community College reveals interesting trends and highlights across various fields of study for the year 2023. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with the highest number of associate degree graduates, totaling 28. This indicates a robust interest in healthcare professions, which aligns with the ongoing demand for healthcare workers, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In contrast, several programs, particularly in the fields of Computer Information Sciences and Business Administration, did not yield any graduates this year. This raises questions about the enrollment levels and the appeal of these programs, especially considering the current job market where technology and business acumen are highly sought after.
Moreover, while the data shows a total of 134 graduates in Liberal Arts and Sciences, it is important to note that only 15 of these were international students. This suggests that while the program attracts a large number of domestic students, it may be less appealing to international students, possibly due to cultural or economic factors.
Interestingly, vocational programs such as Welding Technology and Automotive Mechanics also produced a modest number of graduates, indicating a continued interest in skilled trades. However, the absence of any graduate numbers in higher degree programs like bachelor's or master's degrees suggests a gap in advanced educational pathways at this institution.
Overall, the data illustrates a clear preference for certain fields, particularly nursing, while highlighting potential areas for growth and improvement in attracting students to other disciplines. As workforce needs evolve, community colleges like Seward County must adapt their programs to better align with industry demands and student interests.
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. | $33,283 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | $57,027 | |
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | $57,027 | |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Medium/Heavy Vehicle and Truck Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Metallurgical Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General. | - |
Students
2,092 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 66.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 722
- First-year undergraduates 328
- Transfers and others 1,042
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,092)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Seward County Community College in 2023
The student population at Seward County Community College in 2023 showcases a diverse and increasingly gender-diverse environment. The data reveals a total enrollment of 1,663 students across various categories, including first-year undergraduate students, continuing undergraduates, transfer students, and graduates.
Notably, the first-year students comprise 311 individuals, with a female representation of 58.2% and male representation of 41.8%. This trend continues among continuing undergraduate students, where females make up a significant 67.4% of the 585 students. Such a high percentage of female students in both categories underscores a broader trend in higher education, where female enrollment has often outpaced male enrollment in recent years.
In the transfer student category, which includes 56 students, the gender distribution is more balanced, with females at 57.1% and males at 42.9%. This suggests that while there is a strong female presence in both incoming and continuing undergraduate populations, the transfer demographic is slightly more balanced.
Moreover, the data indicates a notable diversity among the student body, with various ethnicities represented. While specific data for the ethnic breakdown is not fully available, it is essential to recognize the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that encourages participation from all backgrounds.
In conclusion, the gender distribution and diversity observed at Seward County Community College reflect broader trends in education, highlighting the need for institutions to adapt and support all students in their academic journeys, particularly as we navigate an era where inclusivity in education is paramount.
Age Composition of Seward County Community College Students in 2023
The age demographic data from Seward County Community College reveals significant trends regarding the student population. A striking characteristic of this data is the overwhelming presence of students under the age of 18, accounting for approximately 35.7% of the total enrollment. This indicates a strong interest in higher education among younger individuals, possibly reflecting the increasing trend of dual-enrollment programs allowing high school students to earn college credits.
In the 18-19 age bracket, students make up around 31.3% of the total, further emphasizing the youthful nature of the college's student body. However, as the age increases, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. For example, only about 9.5% of students are aged 20-21, and this figure continues to decrease with age, with those aged 50-64 and above 65 comprising only 2.3% and 1.5% of the total, respectively.
The absence of graduate students in the data highlights a potential area for growth. Many community colleges struggle to attract graduate-level students, which could indicate a need for more advanced degree programs or partnerships with universities to encourage further education for those seeking higher qualifications.
Overall, the data showcases a vibrant, younger student population while also reflecting challenges in attracting older or graduate students, a trend that is echoed in many community colleges across the nation as they aim to diversify their offerings and reach a wider audience.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
83 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Seward County Community College
The data from Seward County Community College reveals interesting trends in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting from a modest representation in 2009, the percentage of international students among undergraduates peaked in 2011 at 6.90%. This spike indicates a possible increase in the college's appeal to international students, likely due to enhanced academic offerings or recruitment strategies. However, this trend was not sustained, as the percentage dropped significantly in subsequent years, often fluctuating around 1-3%.
The decline in international enrollment could reflect broader national trends in international student mobility, influenced by factors such as visa regulations, global economic conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel and education. For instance, the year 2020 saw a slight increase in international students, perhaps as institutions adapted to remote learning, but the overall percentage remained low.
Despite these fluctuations, the college's consistent commitment to attracting international students remains evident. The data shows that even during years of lower enrollment, efforts were made to maintain a diverse student body. The challenge for Seward County Community College will be to develop strategies that not only attract but also retain international students in the coming years, particularly as competition among U.S. colleges intensifies. Overall, while international student enrollment has experienced ups and downs, the college's ongoing efforts to foster a global learning environment are crucial for its future growth and diversity.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$13,188
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $5,408
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,160
- Room and board
- $7,780
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 66%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$28.9M
Expenses$29.9M
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 43 | 26 |
| Basketball | 24 | 15 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Tennis | 16 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 38 | 15 |
| Basketball | 17 | 14 |
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Tennis | 12 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 22 | 14 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Tennis | 5 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
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Wichita State UniversityWichita · 204.1 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 223.0 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 232.2 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Colorado CollegeColorado Springs · 246.0 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock · 246.2 mi
U.S. News #186
-
United States Air Force AcademyUSAF Academy · 254.8 mi
Liberal Arts #11
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 277.8 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Colorado DenverDenver · 281.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 282.8 mi
U.S. News #148
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Seward County Community College:
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 185, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, renowned for its commitment to student success.
-
Texas Tech University - Ranked 216, this comprehensive university is recognized for its impressive engineering and business programs, as well as its vibrant campus life.
-
University of Kansas - Also ranked 151, this university offers a comprehensive range of programs and is well-known for its research initiatives and academic excellence.
-
University of Denver - This comprehensive university, ranked 124, is noted for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to experiential learning.
-
Colorado School of Mines - With a rank of 76, this university specializes in engineering and applied sciences, making it a top choice for students interested in these fields.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their quality education and diverse programs.
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 Seward County Community College
The crime data for Seward County Community College over the past decade presents a fluctuating trend, underscoring the complexities of campus safety. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students has varied significantly, peaking in 2016 at 9.44 incidents. This peak could be indicative of various underlying issues, such as increased reporting, campus policy changes, or even social factors affecting student behavior.
The most notable decline in crime rates occurred between 2021 and 2022, where the rate dropped to just 1.44 incidents per 1,000 students. This reduction may reflect improved safety measures, heightened awareness, or a shift in student culture towards more responsible behavior. However, the subsequent rise in 2023 to 6.98 incidents suggests that the college must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing safety concerns.
Particularly concerning are the statistics related to drug-related arrests and incidents of violence, which can have a profound impact on the campus environment. As issues like substance abuse and domestic violence continue to be prevalent in society, community colleges must implement effective educational and preventive programs to mitigate these risks.
Overall, while the data suggests improvements in certain years, the fluctuations indicate that Seward County Community College needs to continuously adapt its safety strategies to ensure a secure learning environment for its students. The focus should remain on fostering a culture of safety, responsibility, and awareness on campus. For more information on calculating crime rates, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Seward County Community College include Martin Lewis (Former Toronto Raptors basketball player), Melvin Sanders (Former San Antonio Spurs basketball player) and Kelby Tomlinson (Former San Francisco Giants baseball player).
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Martin Lewis 1975–
Former Toronto Raptors basketball player
-
Melvin Sanders 1981–
Former San Antonio Spurs basketball player
-
Kelby Tomlinson 1990–
Former San Francisco Giants baseball 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.