Isothermal Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$6,638
In-state $2,030
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
1,918
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
48.7%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 51.8%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Isothermal Community College (ICC), located in Spindale, North Carolina, is a prominent institution dedicated to providing quality education and fostering community development. Established in 1964, ICC has built a reputation for its commitment to student success and workforce readiness. One of the college's key features is its diverse range of programs, including academic transfer degrees, vocational training, and continuing education opportunities. This variety allows students to tailor their educational experiences to meet their personal and professional goals, whether they are looking to transfer to a four-year university or enter the workforce directly after completing their studies.
The college prides itself on its supportive learning environment and strong emphasis on community engagement. With a dedicated faculty and staff, ICC focuses on providing personalized attention to students, ensuring that they receive the guidance and resources necessary to thrive. The college also boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, which enhance the educational experience. Beyond academics, ICC encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities, fostering a vibrant campus culture. With a commitment to inclusivity and diversity, Isothermal Community College has become a vital hub for learning and community involvement in the region, empowering students to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Isothermal Community College
The tuition trends at Isothermal Community College reveal significant fluctuations that reflect larger economic factors influencing higher education costs. Over the years, we see that in-state tuition for undergraduate students spiked from $2,342 in 2014 to $2,542 in 2017 before experiencing a decline to $1,934 in 2020, most likely due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This downward trend in 2020 was notable, as it was not just a temporary measure; tuition remained relatively stable in subsequent years at around $1,994 to $2,030. Such a pattern suggests an effort by the institution to maintain accessibility during economically challenging times.
Another vital statistic is the graduation rate, which has shown a remarkable improvement. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates rose from a mere 5.4% in 2014 to approximately 24.9% in 2023. This impressive increase indicates that the college has potentially implemented effective support systems for students, enhancing their chances of timely graduation. The 150% graduation rate also reflects this trend, increasing from 13.1% to 40.2% over the same period, suggesting that more students are not only graduating but doing so within an acceptable timeframe.
Student retention rates also highlight a positive development, climbing from about 51.5% in 2014 to 68.9% in 2023. This upward trend could be attributed to improved student services, academic advising, and community-building initiatives that foster a supportive environment for students.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable but shows a slight decline from 20 in 2013 to 11 in 2023. A lower ratio may enhance the educational experience by allowing for more personalized attention and support from faculty, which could further contribute to the increased retention and graduation rates observed.
Overall, Isothermal Community College appears to be navigating the complexities of higher education effectively, with strategic adjustments leading to improved outcomes for its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Greenville, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- ICC, Isothermal
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Margaret Annunziata (President)
- Phone
- 8282863636
- City
- Spindale, North Carolina
- Address
- 286 ICC Loop Road, Spindale, NC 28160-0804
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data at Isothermal Community College
The data from Isothermal Community College for 2023 highlights a significant trend in the distribution of graduates across various programs. Notably, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program stands out with 185 graduates, representing a substantial 42.6% of the total associate degree graduates. This figure indicates a strong interest in liberal arts education, which often provides a broader skill set that is appealing in various job markets.
In the health field, Registered Nursing and Emergency Medical Technology programs produced 16 and 4 graduates, respectively. These numbers reflect the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of recent global health crises, which have underscored the importance of having a robust healthcare workforce. However, the absence of international students in these programs points to potential barriers that could limit the diversity and influx of talent in this crucial sector.
Interestingly, programs in engineering and technology did not report any graduates this year, which raises concerns about the future workforce in these industries. Given the increasing reliance on technology and engineering solutions in today's economy, this lack of graduates could lead to skills shortages in the coming years.
Moreover, many programs, particularly in fields like education and social services, show little to no graduation rates, suggesting either a lack of interest or possible challenges in enrollment. As institutions navigate post-pandemic recovery, addressing these enrollment challenges will be critical in ensuring that all sectors meet workforce demands effectively. Overall, while certain programs thrive, others face significant hurdles that need to be addressed through targeted strategies and support systems.
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. | $22,616-$39,484 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Office Management/Administration. | $31,933 | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | |
| Pre-Nursing Studies. | - | |
| Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. | - | |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $68,223 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Accounting and Finance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician. | - | |
| Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - | |
| Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Computer Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Mechanical Drafting and Mechanical Drafting CAD/CADD. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial and Advertising Art. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
Students
1,918 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 71.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 801
- First-year undergraduates 152
- Transfers and others 965
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,918)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Isothermal Community College for 2023
The student demographic data from Isothermal Community College in 2023 provides insightful information regarding the composition and gender distribution of its student body. Notably, the institution has welcomed a total of 264 new undergraduate students, with 41.7% being male and 58.3% female. This indicates a healthy gender diversity, although females slightly outnumber males.
For returning undergraduate students, the numbers show 671 individuals enrolled, with a male representation of 35.5% and female representation at 64.5%. The consistent trend of higher female enrollment compared to males continues, emphasizing a growing trend in higher education where females are increasingly pursuing degrees.
The transfer undergraduate students count stands at 183, showing a more pronounced gender disparity with only 26.8% male and 73.2% female students. This stark difference raises questions about the factors influencing transfer decisions and whether they vary significantly between genders.
Lastly, the overall enrolled students count of 758, which includes various categories, maintains a gender ratio where females represent a larger portion of the student population. This ongoing trend could reflect broader societal changes in educational pursuits and career aspirations among young women.
In summary, Isothermal Community College's demographics in 2023 reveal a predominantly female student body, particularly among transfer students. This trend aligns with national patterns in higher education, where institutions are witnessing increasing female participation. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing programs and services that cater to the diverse needs of all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Isothermal Community College in 2023
The age composition data from Isothermal Community College reveals insightful trends regarding the demographic distribution of its student body. The most populous age group is under 18 years, with a total of 670 students, comprising 39.2% of the total student population. This significant proportion suggests that the college has a strong appeal to younger students, likely influenced by dual enrollment programs or local high school graduates seeking immediate post-secondary education.
As we move into the 18-19 age bracket, we see a slight decline in numbers, with 379 students, indicating that the transition from high school to college could be a challenging phase. The numbers continue to decrease in older age groups, with only 79 students aged 20-21 and even fewer in the 22-24 range, suggesting that many students may opt for a quicker pathway to employment or might not pursue further education.
Interestingly, there are no male graduate students, which raises questions about gender representation in graduate programs at the college. The data shows a consistent trend where female students outnumber male students across all age categories, reaching a peak in the 25-29 age group with 111 female students. This indicates a growing trend of women pursuing higher education, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equity in education.
In the older age categories, there is a notable presence of students aged 40 and above, which could reflect the institution's role in providing lifelong learning opportunities. The presence of a few students over 65 years old highlights the college's inclusivity and commitment to serving diverse age groups, promoting the idea that education is a lifelong pursuit. Overall, this age demographic data underlines the importance of community colleges in catering to a wide range of learners, from traditional high school graduates to adult learners seeking to enhance their skills.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
6 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Isothermal Community College
The data on international student enrollment at Isothermal Community College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly at the undergraduate level. Starting with just six international students in 2004, the numbers gradually increased, peaking at 28 students in 2013, which represented a remarkable growth in the proportion of international students to 1.10%. However, this upward trend was not sustained, as the following years saw a notable decline, with the number of international students dropping to just two in both 2015 and 2017.
This pattern of fluctuation may reflect broader trends in higher education, particularly the factors that influence international student mobility, such as visa regulations, global economic conditions, and competition from other countries for attracting foreign students. The decline in recent years, particularly in 2023 where the percentage of international students dropped to 0.37%, warrants attention. It could indicate challenges that the college may face in maintaining its appeal to prospective international students.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global travel and education must also be considered, as many institutions experienced significant drops in international enrollment during this period. Moving forward, it is crucial for Isothermal Community College to assess its recruitment strategies and support systems for international students to reverse this downturn and foster a more diverse academic environment. The enrollment trends underscore the importance of adapting to the evolving landscape of international education to ensure sustained growth and inclusivity.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$26,523
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $6,638
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $2,030
- Room and board
- $19,885
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -22% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 47%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$29.5M
Expenses$27.6M
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
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 26.1 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 41.3 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 61.2 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North Carolina at CharlotteCharlotte · 66.6 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 69.2 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 105.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 106.9 mi
U.S. News #34
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 120.8 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 126.5 mi
U.S. News #52
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Isothermal Community College:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is renowned for its strong research programs and excellent faculty. Learn more about Duke University.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This prestigious institution ranks 22nd and is known for its comprehensive programs in various fields and its vibrant campus life. Learn more about UNC Chapel Hill.
-
Emory University - With a rank of 24, Emory University is recognized for its rigorous academics and commitment to research and service. Learn more about Emory University.
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Wake Forest University - Ranking 51st, Wake Forest is a private university known for its liberal arts education and small class sizes. Learn more about Wake Forest University.
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Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly noted for its engineering and business programs. Learn more about Clemson University.
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Furman University - This liberal arts college ranks 46th and is celebrated for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs. Learn more about Furman University.
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Davidson College - With a rank of 16, Davidson is known for its rigorous academic environment and commitment to developing students' leadership skills. Learn more about Davidson College.
These institutions provide a wide range of academic opportunities and are known for their excellence in education.
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 Isothermal Community College
The crime statistics at Isothermal Community College over the past decade reveal a notable trend in campus safety. The data indicates a significant decline in the overall crime rate from 2013 to 2023, with the highest rate recorded in 2013 at 1.57 incidents per 1,000 students. By 2016, this rate dropped to 0.50, and the following years saw a remarkable decrease, culminating in 2023 with an average of just 0.11 incidents per 1,000 students.
Among the various crime categories, arrests related to firearms were present in the earlier years, particularly in 2013 and 2014, but have since diminished significantly. The absence of any recorded incidents in the years from 2018 to 2022 highlights the effective measures implemented to enhance campus security and student welfare. Even in 2023, only a minor incident related to firearms was reported, suggesting a continued commitment to maintaining a safe educational environment.
This downward trend in crime rates can reflect broader societal changes, including increased awareness around safety on campuses, improved security protocols, and possibly a more engaged student body. Ultimately, the data presents a positive outlook for Isothermal Community College, reinforcing the institution's dedication to providing a safe space for learning. For calculating crime rates, more detailed methods can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.