CUNY LaGuardia Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$8,098
In-state $5,218
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
14,494
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
25.3%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 29.5%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
CUNY LaGuardia Community College, located in Long Island City, New York, is a prominent institution within the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Established in 1971, LaGuardia is known for its diverse student body and commitment to providing accessible education. The college offers over 50 degree and certificate programs, ranging from liberal arts to health sciences, business, and technology. LaGuardia emphasizes experiential learning, and many programs include internships and hands-on training that prepare students for the workforce. The college is particularly recognized for its strong focus on community engagement and its efforts to support immigrant populations, fostering an inclusive environment where students from various backgrounds can thrive academically and socially.
In terms of campus culture, LaGuardia is vibrant and dynamic, offering numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. The college's commitment to student success is reflected in its robust support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, which help students navigate their educational journeys and prepare for future employment. The college encourages students to participate in athletics, with various sports teams and recreational activities available. Additionally, LaGuardia's faculty is comprised of experienced educators and industry professionals dedicated to student development, ensuring a high-quality learning experience. Overall, CUNY LaGuardia Community College stands out as a valuable educational institution dedicated to fostering growth, learning, and community involvement.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at CUNY LaGuardia Community College
CUNY LaGuardia Community College has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained stable at approximately $5,218 since 2016, while out-of-state students pay around $8,098. However, the cost of room and board has escalated significantly, from about $13,554 in 2014 to $24,209 in 2024. This drastic increase in living expenses may deter prospective students from enrolling, especially as undergraduate enrollment has seen a decline from 19,564 students in 2014 to just 13,064 in 2023, indicating a 33% drop.
Moreover, graduation rates have shown a positive trend, with the timely graduation rate for undergraduates climbing from 3.97% in 2014 to 14.44% in 2023. This increase suggests that the college is making efforts to support student success, potentially offsetting some of the adverse effects of rising living costs.
Another alarming trend is the retention rate, which has decreased from about 66% in 2013 to approximately 57% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about student satisfaction and the college's ability to retain students through to graduation.
In conclusion, while CUNY LaGuardia Community College has made strides in improving graduation rates, the simultaneous increase in living costs and decreasing enrollment and retention rates present significant challenges. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's future sustainability and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 6 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), about 10 mi
- Also known as
- LaGuardia, LaGuardia CC, LaGuardia Community College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kenneth Adams (President)
- Phone
- 7184827200
- City
- Long Island City, New York
- Address
- 31-10 Thomson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data for CUNY LaGuardia Community College
The graduation data from CUNY LaGuardia Community College presents a unique insight into the demographics of students completing their studies in various fields. Notably, the healthcare-related programs, particularly in areas like Registered Nursing and Occupational Therapist Assistant, showcase significant graduation numbers, with 81 and 28 students respectively receiving their degrees. This trend aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in urban settings like New York City, where such skills are highly sought after.
Moreover, the data reflects a strong interest in business and technology programs, with Business Administration and Management graduating 270 students and Computer Science yielding 77 graduates. This mirrors the broader employment trends, as these sectors are increasingly critical in today’s economy, especially post-pandemic, where digital transformation and business agility have become essential.
Interestingly, the data reveals a considerable number of international students achieving their associate degrees, particularly in psychology and health-related fields. This suggests that CUNY LaGuardia serves as an attractive option for international students looking to enter the U.S. workforce, particularly in high-demand sectors.
However, the absence of bachelor’s and master’s degree graduates in most programs raises questions about the college's role in the higher education pathway. It may indicate a focus on associate degrees, which are pivotal in providing accessible education but could also reflect a need for stronger transfer partnerships with four-year institutions.
Overall, the data underscores the college's strengths in meeting workforce needs while highlighting areas for potential growth in advanced degree offerings and international student support.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $41,308 | |
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | $40,515 | |
| Tourism and Travel Services Management. | $37,388 | |
| Restaurant/Food Services Management. | $37,388 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | $51,078 | |
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | $51,078 | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | $84,467 | |
| Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist. | $84,467 | |
| Psychiatric/Mental Health Services Technician. | $41,154 | |
| Public Health, General. | - | |
| Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $94,471 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - | |
| Computer Science. | $27,384 | |
| Computer Software and Media Applications, Other. | $23,862 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $33,275 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $34,749 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial and Product Design. | $27,921 | |
| Commercial Photography. | $27,921 | |
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $23,931 | |
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $26,322 | |
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $31,183 | |
| Teacher Assistant/Aide. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $34,476 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | - | |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | |
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Installation and Repair Technology/Technician. | $43,845 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | $22,665 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | $25,224 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Systems Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
14,494 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 57.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 7,225
- First-year undergraduates 1,893
- Transfers and others 5,376
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (14,494)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at CUNY LaGuardia Community College
The data from CUNY LaGuardia Community College in 2023 reveals some interesting insights into the composition of its student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 2,245 students, with females making up a slight majority at 53.8%. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors, where females represent an even larger proportion at 59.3% of the 6,486 students. This indicates a strong female presence in the undergraduate population, suggesting that the college may be attracting and retaining more female students compared to their male counterparts.
In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students show a more pronounced gender disparity, with only 37.5% being male and 62.5% female among 1,184 students. This could point to various factors, including the academic fields that are popular among transfer students or social influences that affect the decision to pursue further education.
Interestingly, the total number of non-degree seeking students stands at 3,149, with a significantly higher male population at 64.6%. This may reflect the diverse motivations of non-degree students, possibly including vocational training or personal development, which could attract a different demographic profile.
The overall gender ratios suggest a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education, which is consistent with national statistics indicating a rise in female college attendance. As institutions like CUNY LaGuardia continue to evolve, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for tailoring programs and support services that cater to the unique needs of their diverse student population.
Age Distribution of Students at CUNY LaGuardia Community College
The age distribution data for students at CUNY LaGuardia Community College reveals significant insights into the demographics of its student body. The largest group of students is found in the 18-19 age category, comprising 29.6% of the total male students and 29.4% of the total female students. This suggests that the college attracts a substantial number of recent high school graduates, a trend seen at many community colleges across the United States, where the traditional college age range is often represented.
Interestingly, the enrollment steadily decreases as age increases. The 20-21 age group accounts for 23.5% of male and 24.3% of female students, while the 22-24 age group shows a similar trend. This decline continues, with only 8.9% of male students and 12.3% of female students aged 25-29. The data indicates that the college primarily serves younger adults, with minimal representation from older age brackets. For instance, only 3.1% of male and 4.5% of female students are aged 30-34, which diminishes further in the 35-39, 40-49, and 50-64 age categories.
This age distribution may reflect broader trends in higher education, where younger individuals typically seek to enter the workforce equipped with relevant skills without a prolonged absence from academia. Additionally, the low enrollment of students over 40 years old could indicate barriers to access, such as financial constraints or family responsibilities. Overall, this data underscores the importance of understanding student demographics to tailor educational programs and services that meet their needs effectively.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
1,672 in 2025 · 6.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at CUNY LaGuardia Community College
The data on international student enrollment at CUNY LaGuardia Community College over the years reveals significant trends and fluctuations. Notably, from 2004 to 2007, there was a remarkable increase in the number of international students, peaking at 3,012 in 2007, which constituted 21.23% of the total undergraduate population. This period marked an era of growing interest in U.S. education among international students, likely influenced by favorable immigration policies and the global appeal of American institutions.
However, the subsequent years saw a decline in both the absolute number and the percentage of international students. By 2023, the percentage dropped to 6.67%, with only 871 international students enrolled. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including stricter immigration policies, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased competition from other countries offering quality education at competitive prices.
The declining trend raises concerns about the diversity and global engagement of the student body, which are crucial for creating a rich educational experience. It is essential for institutions like LaGuardia to explore strategies to attract and retain international students, such as enhancing support services, promoting academic programs, and fostering a welcoming campus environment. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, there is an opportunity for U.S. colleges to reestablish their global presence and appeal to a diverse student demographic once again.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$32,829
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $8,098
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,218
- Room and board
- $24,731
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 0% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 81%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$309M
Expenses$276M
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 III | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | - |
| Basketball | 12 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Cross Country | 2 | 1 |
| NJCAA Division III | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 13 | 9 |
| Soccer | 22 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Cross Country | 2 | 1 |
| NJCAA Division III | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 12 | 10 |
| Soccer | 13 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
New York UniversityNew York · 3.4 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 4.6 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 4.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 4.8 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 12.6 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 31.7 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 44.2 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 44.5 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 46.8 mi
U.S. News #2
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near CUNY LaGuardia Community College:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia University is an Ivy League institution known for its rigorous academics and diverse programs.
-
New York University - With a rank of 35, NYU is a prestigious global university located in the heart of Manhattan, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard is a highly regarded women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education.
-
Pace University - This university ranks 249th and is known for its strong connections to the business community and offers various undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Fordham University - With a ranking of 89, Fordham is a Jesuit university that emphasizes a well-rounded education with a focus on ethics and social justice.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students in the New York 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 Campus Crime Rates at CUNY LaGuardia Community College
The crime statistics at CUNY LaGuardia Community College over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate was relatively low at 0.32, but it steadily increased, peaking in 2020 with a rate of 0.96. This spike may be attributed to various factors, including rising tensions and challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased anxiety and uncertainty within campus communities.
Interestingly, the year 2021 saw a dramatic drop in crime rates, plummeting to just 0.09. This decline could suggest a combination of improved campus safety measures, increased awareness, and possibly lower on-campus activity due to ongoing pandemic restrictions. However, the numbers rebounded in 2022 and 2023, indicating that crime remains a persistent issue that requires continual attention and action from campus authorities.
The data also highlights specific areas of concern, such as drug-related arrests and domestic violence incidents, which often reflect broader societal issues. It is imperative for educational institutions to address these challenges proactively through community engagement, educational programs, and support services.
While CUNY LaGuardia Community College has made strides in maintaining campus safety, the variability in crime rates emphasizes the need for ongoing vigilance and responsive strategies to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. For further details on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of CUNY LaGuardia Community College include Jennifer Aniston (Actress and Emmy and Golden Globe winner), Reby Sky (Professional wrestler, model and actress) and Ricky Powell (Photographer documenting hip hop and pop culture).
-
Jennifer Aniston 1969–
Actress and Emmy and Golden Globe winner
-
Reby Sky 1986–
Professional wrestler, model and actress
-
Ricky Powell 1961–2021
Photographer documenting hip hop and pop culture
-
Asha Ahmed Abdalla 1958–
Somali politician and first female presidential candidate
-
Salimah Ali 1954–
Photographer and Kamoinge Workshop member
-
Rubén Díaz, Jr. 1973–
13th Bronx Borough President
-
Elliott Wilson 1971–
Journalist and founder of Rap Radar
-
Elly Gross 1929–2022
Holocaust survivor and author
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.