College of the Albemarle
Out-of-state tuition
$7,652
In-state $2,242
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
2,905
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
39.0%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 42.9%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The College of the Albemarle (COA) is a distinguished community college located in northeastern North Carolina, with its main campus situated in Elizabeth City. Established in 1961, COA serves a diverse population of students, offering a broad range of academic programs and services aimed at fostering educational and professional development. One of the notable features of COA is its commitment to accessibility and affordability, making higher education attainable for a wide array of learners. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and provides various vocational and technical training programs that cater to the needs of local industries, enhancing employability and workforce readiness.
COA is known for its supportive learning environment and dedicated faculty, who prioritize student success. The college promotes a strong sense of community through various extracurricular activities and cultural events, allowing students to engage with their peers and develop leadership skills. With a focus on holistic education, COA encourages its students to participate in sports, arts, and community service, fostering well-rounded individuals. The college's commitment to excellence is reflected in its motto, "Learning for Life," which encapsulates its mission to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary for lifelong success in their careers and personal lives.
Analysis of Key Metrics at College of the Albemarle
The College of the Albemarle, a public institution, has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the years. One significant aspect is the tuition costs, particularly for in-state undergraduates. From 2014 to 2024, the in-state tuition increased from $2,037 to $2,249, reflecting a steady upward trajectory. This increase, although modest, emphasizes the ongoing challenge of rising educational expenses, which can deter prospective students, particularly from lower-income backgrounds.
Another area of concern is the graduation rates. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates dropped dramatically from approximately 27.4% in 2013 to a concerning 10.1% in 2023. This decline raises questions about student support services and the effectiveness of educational programs. The significant drop in graduation rates could be indicative of various factors, including financial strain, lack of academic advising, or inadequate resources, which could lead to students dropping out before completing their degrees.
Retention rates have also fluctuated, with a low of about 52.9% in 2022 and a slight increase to 53.6% in 2023. Retention is crucial as it reflects student satisfaction and the institution’s ability to support students through their educational journey. A low retention rate often correlates with low graduation rates, suggesting that students who remain enrolled are more likely to finish their degrees.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently outnumbering male students, comprising about 64% of the undergraduate population in 2023. This gender disparity in enrollment may have implications for program development and student services tailored to diverse needs.
In summary, while the College of the Albemarle has maintained stability in some areas, the notable declines in graduation rates and retention highlight critical areas for improvement. Addressing these challenges will be essential for enhancing student outcomes and ensuring the institution remains a viable option for future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Virginia Beach, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Norfolk International Airport (ORF), about 40 mi
- Also known as
- COA
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Jack Bagwell (President)
- Phone
- 25233508210
- Address
- 1208 N Road St, Elizabeth City, NC 27906-2327
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at College of the Albemarle
The graduation data from the College of the Albemarle in 2023 reveals some noteworthy trends, particularly in the realm of associate degrees. The most significant number of graduates was in the Liberal Arts and Sciences category, with 205 graduates, indicating a strong interest in general education and versatility in academic pursuits. This could reflect a broader trend in higher education where students seek foundational knowledge that can be applied across various fields.
In the health-related programs, such as Registered Nursing and Medical Office Management, the graduation numbers were relatively modest, with 26 and 7 graduates, respectively. This may highlight the ongoing challenges in the healthcare sector, where the demand for qualified professionals continues to outpace supply. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of robust healthcare education, making these figures particularly relevant as institutions strive to meet growing workforce needs.
Interestingly, the data shows no graduates in bachelor's, master's, or doctorate programs across the various fields, which raises questions about the availability of these programs at the institution. This could suggest a potential gap in offerings that could limit advanced educational opportunities for students, especially in a competitive job market where higher degrees are often favored.
Moreover, the presence of international students earning associate degrees, though limited, indicates a growing diversity within the college's student body. This aligns with national trends of increasing international student enrollment, which enriches the educational environment and fosters cross-cultural understanding.
Overall, the data paints a picture of a community college focused on foundational education, with a need to enhance offerings in advanced degrees and health-related fields to better serve its students and the broader community.
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. | $24,708 | |
| General Studies. | $24,708 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $24,708 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Office Management/Administration. | - | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | $55,025 | |
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | $55,025 | |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | |
| Pre-Nursing Studies. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $79,437 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $43,818 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
Students
2,905 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 71.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,489
- First-year undergraduates 186
- Transfers and others 1,230
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,905)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at College of the Albemarle in 2023
In 2023, the College of the Albemarle has shown a diverse student body, particularly in the undergraduate categories. The number of first-time undergraduate students stands at 298, with a notable gender distribution where 44.3% are male and 55.7% are female. This gender balance reflects a growing trend in higher education, where female students often outnumber their male counterparts.
The undergraduate continuing students, totaling 785, exhibit a more pronounced gender disparity, with only 25.4% identifying as male and a substantial 74.6% as female. This significant difference may indicate a shift in the traditional demographics of college attendance, with more women pursuing higher education than men.
Transfer students, which include 78 individuals, also show a similar trend with 30.8% male and 69.2% female students. This consistency across categories may suggest that the college is attracting and retaining female students effectively, contributing to an increasingly diverse educational environment.
Moreover, the overall student population, which includes 1,153 non-degree-seeking students, underscores the importance of supporting various educational paths and demographics. The significant representation of different ethnic backgrounds among the student body, particularly among white students, highlights the need for ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and support for minority groups.
As educational institutions continue to evolve, the data from the College of the Albemarle exemplifies the shifting landscape of higher education, emphasizing the importance of diversity and gender balance in fostering a rich academic community.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at College of the Albemarle in 2023
The age composition of students at the College of the Albemarle in 2023 reveals significant trends that reflect broader societal patterns in education. A notable aspect is the overwhelming representation of students under the age of 18, accounting for approximately 40% of the total student body. This demographic suggests that the college is attracting a younger audience, possibly due to its accessibility and programs tailored for high school graduates.
As age increases, there is a sharp decline in enrollment numbers. For instance, students aged 18-19 represent about 24% of the total, while those aged 20-21 drop to 10%. This trend continues, with individuals aged 22-24 and 25-29 comprising 6% and 7% of the student population, respectively. The data indicates a significant decrease in engagement as students transition into their mid-twenties, which may reflect the challenges of balancing work and study or a preference for entering the workforce immediately after high school.
Furthermore, the absence of graduate students in the male category highlights a potential gap in graduate enrollment, suggesting that the institution may need to explore strategies to attract more graduate students, particularly men. The gender distribution also shows a consistent pattern, with female students generally outnumbering their male counterparts across all age categories, a trend that aligns with national statistics in higher education.
Overall, the data from the College of the Albemarle underscores the importance of addressing the needs and preferences of diverse age groups within the student population to foster a more inclusive learning environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
116 in 2025 · 4.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at College of the Albemarle
The data reveals a discernible trend in the enrollment of international students at College of the Albemarle over the years. Starting from a mere 0.07% of the undergraduate population in 2010, the percentage of international students has seen fluctuations, peaking at 5.11% in 2015. This increase reflects a growing interest in the college as a destination for international education, likely influenced by various factors such as academic offerings, campus environment, and support services for foreign students.
However, the subsequent years indicate a decline, with the proportion of international undergraduates dropping to 2.38% in 2022 and slightly recovering to 2.85% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to several external factors, including changes in immigration policies, the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on travel and academic plans, and heightened competition from other institutions aiming to attract international talent. The significant drop in numbers from 123 international students in 2015 to 56 in 2022 suggests that the college may need to reassess its strategies for attracting and retaining international students.
In light of recent global events, including the ongoing recovery from the pandemic, the college has an opportunity to enhance its international recruitment efforts. By fostering partnerships with overseas institutions and improving support services for international students, College of the Albemarle could create a more welcoming environment that may boost enrollment figures in the coming years. Overall, the trends highlight the importance of adaptability in the face of global educational dynamics.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$20,565
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $7,652
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $2,242
- Room and board
- $12,913
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 3% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 36%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$41.6M
Expenses$28.1M
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 NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
College of William and MaryWilliamsburg · 70.6 mi
U.S. News #52
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 81.1 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond · 108.6 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of RichmondUniversity of Richmond · 113.1 mi
Liberal Arts #21
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 142.1 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 153.2 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 160.6 mi
U.S. News #27
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 172.5 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville · 172.5 mi
U.S. News #26
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near the College of the Albemarle:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, Duke offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
-
University of Virginia-Main Campus - With a ranking of 24, the University of Virginia is a public research university in Charlottesville, Virginia. It is renowned for its historic foundations, rigorous academics, and commitment to student self-governance.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Ranked 22nd, this public university is located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and offers a diverse range of programs across various fields.
-
William & Mary - As the second oldest college in the United States, William & Mary is ranked 53rd and is known for its strong liberal arts education and commitment to research.
-
University of Richmond - This liberal arts university ranks 25th and is located in Richmond, Virginia. The University of Richmond is known for its small class sizes and personalized education.
-
St. Mary's College of Maryland - Ranked 82nd, this public honors college emphasizes a liberal arts education and offers a close-knit community for its students.
These institutions offer a range of programs and opportunities for students in the region, making the area a vibrant educational hub.
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
Crime Trends at College of the Albemarle
The crime statistics from College of the Albemarle reveal a significant decline in reported offenses over the years. In 2013, the campus had a crime rate of 1.69 per 1,000 students, primarily driven by incidents related to gun arrests. However, by 2017, the figures showed a notable decrease, with no reported crimes recorded from 2017 to 2022. This positive trend suggests a successful implementation of safety measures and community engagement strategies aimed at fostering a secure environment for students.
The past few years indicate a sharp drop in incidents, as the crime rate plummeted to 0.00 by 2019 and remained at that level until 2023. This trend aligns with broader national patterns where many educational institutions are experiencing similar decreases in campus crime rates, particularly in the wake of increased awareness and preventive measures against violence, substance abuse, and other criminal activities.
It's important to recognize that while these statistics are encouraging, they should be contextualized within the broader societal landscape. The overall decline in crime can also be attributed to heightened vigilance in community policing, educational programs on safety, and a cultural shift toward promoting non-violence and respect within academic environments. Continued efforts are necessary to maintain this positive trajectory and ensure the safety and well-being of all students on campus.
For a more detailed understanding of crime rates calculation, refer to this 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.