Haywood Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$8,724
In-state $2,580
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
1,395
Student-faculty ratio 7:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
44.1%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 49.2%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Haywood Community College (HCC) is a prominent institution located in Clyde, North Carolina, nestled within the picturesque Smoky Mountains. The college offers a wide range of programs and courses, emphasizing practical skills and community engagement. With a mission to provide accessible, quality education, HCC serves a diverse student population and aims to meet the educational and workforce needs of the region. The college is known for its strong focus on career-oriented programs, including health sciences, technical fields, and arts, which prepare students for successful careers or transfer to four-year institutions.
One of the defining features of Haywood Community College is its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. The college promotes a vibrant campus culture where students can engage in various extracurricular activities, including clubs, student government, and community service projects. HCC also boasts modern facilities, such as state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and a wellness center, which enhance the learning experience. Additionally, the college's faculty members are highly qualified and dedicated to student success, providing personalized attention and mentorship. With a focus on experiential learning, HCC prepares students not only academically but also equips them with the skills necessary to thrive in their chosen careers, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking higher education in a nurturing environment.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Haywood Community College
The data from Haywood Community College presents several noteworthy trends, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.
Firstly, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a gradual increase from $2,394 in 2014 to $2,612 in 2024, reflecting a rise of approximately 9.1% over the ten-year period. For out-of-state students, tuition rose from $8,538 in 2014 to $8,756 in 2024, a more modest increase of 2.6%. This trend underscores the ongoing challenge of rising educational costs, which often outpace inflation and can deter potential students from enrolling, particularly those from out of state.
In terms of enrollment, there has been a significant decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 2,290 in 2014 to just 1,286 in 2023. This 43.9% decrease raises concerns about the college's appeal and accessibility. Factors such as tuition increases, demographic shifts, and competition from online education may be contributing to this decline.
Graduation rates have shown some improvement, with the percentage of students graduating on time rising from 4.7% in 2013 to 23.3% in 2023. However, this still indicates that a majority of students are not completing their degrees within the expected timeframe. The 150% graduation rate also reflects a similar trend, highlighting ongoing challenges in student success.
Retention rates have fluctuated over the years, with a peak of 73.4% in 2017 but a decline to 52.3% by 2023. This drop suggests difficulties in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, which are crucial for fostering a supportive educational environment.
Overall, while tuition increases and graduation rates show some positive trends, the significant drop in student enrollment and retention rates poses challenges for Haywood Community College moving forward. Addressing these issues will be essential for enhancing the institution's stability and reputation.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Greenville, about 60 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 110 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Shelley White (President)
- Phone
- 8286272821
- City
- Clyde, North Carolina
- Address
- 185 Freedlander Drive, Clyde, NC 28721-9901
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Haywood Community College
The graduation data from Haywood Community College for 2023 reveals significant insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields. Notably, the highest number of associate degrees was awarded in Liberal Arts and Sciences, with 69 graduates. This trend highlights the enduring popularity and importance of liberal arts education, which often serves as a foundational step for students pursuing further education or diverse career paths.
In the healthcare sector, Registered Nursing emerged as a robust program, yielding 22 graduates. This aligns with the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has underscored the critical need for skilled nursing staff. The absence of international students in this program may suggest either a lack of outreach to non-domestic students or stringent admission criteria.
Interestingly, technical programs such as Welding Technology and Automotive Mechanics showed lower graduation numbers, with 6 and 3 graduates, respectively. This could reflect a shift in career interests among students or a potential underrepresentation of these trades in community college curricula. As industries increasingly seek skilled tradespeople, colleges might consider expanding these programs to attract more students.
Moreover, the complete absence of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degree graduates across all programs indicates that Haywood Community College primarily focuses on two-year associate degrees. This specialization may cater to students aiming for immediate employment or those planning to transfer to four-year institutions. Overall, the data suggests a strong commitment to foundational education, particularly in liberal arts and healthcare, while also presenting opportunities for growth in technical fields.
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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Office Management/Administration. | - | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $77,925 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Accounting and Finance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $28,831 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Crafts/Craft Design, Folk Art and Artisanry. | - | |
| Fiber, Textile and Weaving Arts. | - | |
| Jewelry Arts. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Shop Technology/Assistant. | - | |
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electromechanical Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
Students
1,395 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 63.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 520
- First-year undergraduates 130
- Transfers and others 745
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,395)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Haywood Community College
The student demographic data for Haywood Community College in 2023 offers a revealing snapshot of the institution's composition. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 198 students, with a notable gender distribution where approximately 41.9% are male and 58.1% are female. This trend continues among upperclassmen, where the male percentage drops to 31.3%, indicating a predominance of female students within the institution's undergraduate population.
Interestingly, the transfer student category presents a similar trend, with a gender ratio of 29.7% male to 70.3% female. This could suggest that female students are more likely to pursue and succeed in their studies at Haywood, or it may reflect broader trends in higher education where women are increasingly enrolling in colleges and universities.
The total number of non-degree-seeking students stands at 483, further showcasing the diverse educational pathways students are exploring. The overall demographics also hint at a significant representation of white students, with 166 white freshmen, which comprises a substantial portion of the student body.
In light of current discussions around diversity and inclusion in higher education, it is crucial for institutions like Haywood Community College to analyze these trends continuously. Understanding the gender disparities and ethnic compositions can help the college tailor programs and services to support all students effectively. As the educational landscape evolves, so too must the approaches to fostering an inclusive environment for every student, regardless of their background.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Haywood Community College
The age composition of students at Haywood Community College in 2023 reveals significant trends in enrollment across different age groups. A striking observation is the predominance of younger students, particularly those under 18, who make up a substantial portion of the total enrollment. With 139 male undergraduates and 209 female undergraduates in this category, it is clear that the college attracts a significant number of high school graduates seeking further education.
As we examine older age groups, the numbers begin to taper off. Students aged 18-19 still show a strong presence with a total of 255, but as we move into the 20-21 age range, the enrollment drops sharply to 133. This decline continues with older age brackets, where the 22-24 age group sees only 103 total students. Interestingly, there are no graduate students in any of the age categories, which may suggest that the college primarily caters to undergraduates.
Another noteworthy aspect is the gender distribution among students. While the number of female students consistently exceeds that of male students across all age categories, particularly among those aged 25-29 and 30-34, this trend mirrors broader societal patterns in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of understanding demographic trends in community college settings, as institutions must tailor their programs and support services to meet the needs of a diverse student body. With this focus, Haywood Community College can continue to foster an inclusive and supportive environment that caters to the educational aspirations of all its students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
1 in 2025 · 0.1% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Haywood Community College
The data regarding international student enrollment at Haywood Community College reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. Starting from 2004, the number of undergraduate students has shown a general decline, dropping from 1,972 to 1,286 by 2023. Notably, the proportion of international students has also seen significant variability, peaking at 0.49% in 2006 but plummeting to as low as 0.04% in several subsequent years.
This decline in both total and international enrollment may be attributed to various factors, including global events, changes in immigration policies, and shifts in the perception of U.S. higher education. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted international student mobility worldwide, causing many students to reconsider their study abroad plans.
The peak in international student enrollment in 2006 may reflect a period when U.S. institutions were actively promoting their programs overseas, coupled with favorable visa regulations. However, the recent years indicate a concerning trend where only a few international students are enrolling, with only 0.08% of undergraduates being international in 2023.
This situation raises questions about the college's outreach strategies and support systems for international students. As competition among colleges intensifies globally, Haywood Community College may need to reevaluate its approach to attract and retain international students, ensuring it remains a viable option in the increasingly competitive landscape of higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$21,538
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $8,724
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $2,580
- Room and board
- $12,814
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 2% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 63%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$24.5M
Expenses$21.7M
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
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 49.8 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 58.7 mi
U.S. News #80
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 63.2 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 68.4 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 111.4 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 117.2 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 124.6 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 143.8 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 144.1 mi
Liberal Arts #62
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Haywood Community College:
-
Furman University - Ranked 46 in the 2024 US News rankings, Furman University is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus located in Greenville, South Carolina.
-
Clemson University - With a rank of 86, Clemson University is a comprehensive university in South Carolina, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, renowned for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
-
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville - This university ranks 105 and is recognized for its strong programs in various fields, including engineering and the sciences, along with its spirited athletic culture.
-
Wofford College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Wofford ranks 59 and is known for its commitment to undergraduate education and a close-knit campus community in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
-
University of Georgia - Ranked 47, the University of Georgia is a comprehensive university known for its research, public service, and vibrant student life in Athens, Georgia.
-
Davidson College - With an impressive rank of 16, Davidson College is a prestigious liberal arts college that emphasizes academic excellence, community service, and leadership.
-
Emory University - Ranked 24, Emory University is a top-tier research university in Atlanta, Georgia, known for its outstanding health sciences programs and strong liberal arts curriculum.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - This highly ranked institution (33) is known for its technology and engineering programs, fostering innovation and research in various fields.
-
Spelman College - Ranked 39, Spelman College is a historically black liberal arts college for women, recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and social justice.
These institutions offer diverse academic programs and vibrant campus experiences, making them excellent choices for students in the region.
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 Data at Haywood Community College
The crime statistics at Haywood Community College over the past decade reveal a significant decline in the number of reported incidents. From 2013 to 2022, the average crime rate per 1,000 students has notably decreased, with the highest rate recorded in 2013 at 0.88, which then plummeted to 0.00 in several subsequent years. This trend indicates a positive shift towards a safer campus environment.
Particularly striking is the complete absence of reported incidents from 2017 to 2019, suggesting effective measures in crime prevention and community safety engagement. However, a few incidents resurfaced in 2020 and 2022, primarily involving gun-related arrests, which slightly raised the crime rate. The sporadic nature of these incidents emphasizes the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure safety on campus.
This decline in crime rates aligns with broader national trends in many educational institutions, where increased awareness and preventive programs have contributed to enhanced safety. Nevertheless, it is essential for Haywood Community College to continue fostering a secure and supportive environment, encouraging students to report incidents and remain vigilant.
Overall, the data suggests that while Haywood Community College has made commendable strides in reducing crime, continuous efforts are necessary to maintain this positive trajectory. For those interested in understanding crime rates better, additional information on calculating these statistics can be found here.
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.