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Public, 2-year

Sandhills Community College

Pinehurst, North Carolina · www.sandhills.edu

中文

Out-of-state tuition

$6,648

In-state $2,040

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

4,115

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

47.9%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 52.1%

Peer median 33.7%

“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Sandhills Community College (SCC), located in Pinehurst, North Carolina, is a renowned institution dedicated to providing quality education and training to a diverse student body. Established in 1963, SCC has developed a strong reputation for its commitment to student success, offering a wide range of programs that cater to the needs of the community. The college's mission emphasizes accessibility, affordability, and excellence in education, making it an ideal choice for students seeking to further their academic or professional careers.

The college boasts a vibrant campus culture, where students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletics. SCC's student life is enriched by a focus on community service and leadership development, fostering a supportive environment that promotes personal growth. The college also offers a variety of facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need for a well-rounded educational experience. Additionally, Sandhills Community College is known for its strong partnerships with local businesses and industries, which enhances job placement opportunities for graduates and contributes to the economic development of the region.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Sandhills Community College

The data from Sandhills Community College reveals several important trends that reflect both the challenges and successes of the institution. One of the most notable metrics is the graduation rate, which has shown a significant upward trajectory. From a mere 4.25% of students graduating on time in 2015, the rate increased to approximately 28.8% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college has implemented effective strategies to enhance student success and retention, ultimately fostering a more supportive educational environment.

In conjunction with graduation rates, student retention has also seen a positive trend. Retention rates climbed from about 57.5% in 2013 to approximately 74.3% in 2023. This increase indicates that more students are remaining enrolled and progressing toward completion, reflecting positively on the college's ability to engage and support its student body.

Conversely, the tuition costs have gradually risen over the years, particularly for out-of-state undergraduate students, which increased from $8,529 in 2014 to $8,908 in 2020 and slightly decreased to $8,792 in 2024. While tuition increases are often expected in higher education, the financial burden on students and their families is a growing concern. This could potentially impact enrollment in the long term if students seek more affordable options.

Lastly, the gender distribution among undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently making up a significant majority. This ongoing trend reflects broader demographic patterns in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.

In summary, while Sandhills Community College faces challenges related to tuition costs, the positive trends in graduation and retention rates suggest a commitment to improving student outcomes, which is critical for the institution's future success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
Durham, about 60 mi
Nearest international airport
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 60 mi
Pinehurst, North Carolina
Also known as
SCC, Sandhills
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Alexander Stewart (President)
Phone
9106926185
City
Pinehurst, North Carolina
Address
3395 Airport Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate6473 international (0.5%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
314
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
52
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other
29
Business Administration and Management, General
21
Information Technology
19
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
19
Medical Office Management/Administration
18
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer
17
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician
15
Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians
13

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Sandhills Community College in 2023

The graduation data from Sandhills Community College for 2023 reveals a strong emphasis on associate degree programs, particularly in the fields of health sciences and education. The highest number of graduates can be seen in Registered Nursing, with 56 graduates, highlighting the increasing demand for healthcare professionals. This trend is consistent with national workforce needs, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has emphasized the critical role of healthcare workers.

Interestingly, despite the robust numbers in associate degrees, there are no graduates reported for bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate programs across all the categories. This suggests a potential gap in the educational offerings at the college, possibly limiting pathways for students who might wish to pursue higher education levels within their fields. Furthermore, the absence of international graduates in all categories signifies a missed opportunity for the college to attract a diverse student body, which can enrich the educational environment.

Fields such as Business Administration and Information Technology, which traditionally have a high enrollment and graduation rate at many institutions, also show no graduates this year. This raises questions about student engagement in these programs and whether the college is effectively meeting the evolving demands of these industries.

Overall, while the data indicates solid performance in associate degrees, the lack of graduates at higher degree levels and the absence of international students may require the college to reassess its program offerings and recruitment strategies to remain competitive and fulfill market needs.

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

Liberal arts has 343 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$24,558
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.$24,558
Health professionshas 123 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Medical Office Management/Administration.-
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).$50,939
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist.$50,939
Surgical Technology/Technologist.$50,939
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.$50,939
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician.-
Pre-Nursing Studies.-
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other.-
Massage Therapy/Therapeutic Massage.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$67,267
Engineering technologieshas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Architectural Engineering Technologies/Technicians.-
Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians.-
Surveying Technology/Surveying.-
Computer Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Businesshas 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business Administration and Management, General.$42,995
Office Management and Supervision.$42,995
Accounting and Finance.-
Homeland security has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician.-
Culinary has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.-
Baking and Pastry Arts/Baker/Pastry Chef.-
Culinary Arts/Chef Training.-
Computer and information sciencehas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Information Technology.-
Educationhas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Mechanic and repair has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician.-
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Engineeringhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Pre-Engineering.-
Construction trades has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Building/Property Maintenance.-
Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection, Other.-
Agricultural has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Landscaping and Groundskeeping.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other.-
Transportation has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew.-

Students

4,115 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 80.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,115)

White
2,178 · 52.9%
Black
667 · 16.2%
Hispanic
604 · 14.7%
Unknown
290 · 7.0%
Two or more races
198 · 4.8%
Asian
64 · 1.6%
International
10 · 0.2%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Sandhills Community College in 2023

The student demographics at Sandhills Community College for 2023 reveal a diverse and vibrant academic community. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 602, with a notable gender distribution showing that 44.7% are male and 55.3% are female. This trend of higher female enrollment is echoed in the undergraduate seniors, where females make up 66% of the 1,571 students.

The trend continues with undergraduate transfer students, comprising 197 individuals, where 27.9% are male and a significant 72.1% are female. This consistent representation of female students across various categories highlights an important shift in higher education dynamics, where women are increasingly taking the lead in enrollment numbers.

The overall enrollment also includes a significant portion of minority groups. Among the freshmen, 295 students identify as White, while the breakdown for other ethnicities is not fully disclosed. However, it indicates that the college likely has a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, as seen in the growing representation of diverse student groups.

Interestingly, the statistics for graduate students and specific ethnic breakdowns in other categories remain unavailable, leaving a gap in understanding the full scope of diversity at the institution. As colleges and universities across the nation strive to enhance their inclusivity, data like this will be crucial for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement in student representation. The ongoing trends in gender and racial diversity in higher education reflect broader societal changes and underscore the importance of equitable access to educational opportunities.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Sandhills Community College 2023

The age demographics of students at Sandhills Community College in 2023 reveal a strong trend towards younger learners, particularly those under the age of 24. The largest group of students is those under 18, comprising 40.5% of the total student population, with 515 male undergraduates and 754 female undergraduates. This trend continues with the 18-19 age group, which accounts for 32% of the entire student body.

Interestingly, the data shows a significant drop in enrollment as age increases. For instance, students aged 20-21 make up only 10.0% of the total, and this percentage continues to decline in older age brackets. The 22-24 age group consists of just 5.7%, while students aged 25-29 represent 4.8%. The trend is starkly evident as we move further up the age scale, with only 1.3% in the 30-34 category and diminishing numbers in the 35-39 and older age brackets.

This demographic trend is reflective of broader national patterns in higher education, where traditional-age students dominate college campuses. The low enrollment in graduate programs, as evidenced by the absence of male graduate students and only a handful of female graduate students, suggests that Sandhills Community College primarily attracts undergraduate learners.

These insights are crucial for the college as they inform recruitment strategies and resource allocation to better support the distinct needs of a predominantly younger student population. As educational institutions adapt to changing demographics, understanding age composition will be key in fostering an inclusive and supportive 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.

Undergraduates0.2%

10 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.2%2017: 0.3%2018: 0.2%2019: 0.2%2020: 0.8%2021: 0.3%2022: 0.4%2023: 0.1%2024: 0.2%2025: 0.2%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Sandhills Community College

The data from Sandhills Community College reveals a fluctuating trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting in 2004, the college had a relatively modest number of international undergraduates, with 39 students representing just 1.08% of the total undergraduate population. This percentage saw a gradual increase until 2006, where it reached a peak of 1.32% with 48 international students.

However, a significant decline is observed from 2011 onward. The percentage of international students dropped dramatically, hitting an alarming low of just 0.02% in 2011, with only one international undergraduate enrolled. The subsequent years showed only slight improvements, with the highest percentage in this later period being 0.79% in 2020, when 32 international students were recorded.

The data also indicates that enrollment numbers have not fully recovered, with only 4 international students in 2023, resulting in a mere 0.11% of the total undergraduate population. This decline may reflect broader trends in international student mobility, possibly influenced by visa restrictions, global events, or changes in the perception of studying in the U.S.

Overall, the international student representation at Sandhills Community College has experienced significant challenges over the years, emphasizing the need for targeted recruitment strategies and support systems to enhance the college's appeal to prospective international students. As educational institutions worldwide adapt to changing circumstances, it is crucial for Sandhills Community College to engage actively in promoting its programs to attract a diverse student body.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$24,428

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$6,648
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$2,040
Room and board
$17,780
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

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 84%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$54.8M

Government grants and contracts
$34.8M63.6%
Investment return
$6.9M12.6%
Gifts and private grants
$4.1M7.5%
Tuition and fees
$3.9M7.1%
Sales and services of educational activities
$365K0.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$320K0.6%
Other
$4.3M7.9%

Expenses$51.1M

Instruction
$21.6M42.3%
Institutional support
$7.9M15.6%
Scholarships
$5.9M11.6%
Academic support
$3.9M7.6%
Student services
$3.6M7.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$44K0.1%
Other
$8.1M15.9%

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.

All faculty
$56,803peers $68,588

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
2025
NJCAA Division III MENWOMEN
Volleyball-17
Basketball16-
Beach Volleyball-14
Golf10-
2024
NJCAA Division IIIMENWOMEN
Basketball20-
Volleyball-18
Beach Volleyball-17
Golf102
2023
NJCAA Division IIIMENWOMEN
Basketball21-
Golf143
Volleyball-13
Beach Volleyball-12

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Sandhills Community College:

  1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious private university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a rank of 22, this public university is recognized for its strong commitment to research and public service. It is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. North Carolina State University at Raleigh - Ranked 60th, this public university is known for its engineering, agriculture, and life sciences programs, making it a great choice for students interested in these fields.

  4. Wake Forest University - This highly regarded private university, ranked 47th, offers a liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on research and service.

  5. Davidson College - A highly selective liberal arts college ranked 16th, Davidson College is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to fostering student development.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Sandhills Community College

The crime data from Sandhills Community College reveals a notable trend in campus safety over the years. From 2013 to 2015, there were recorded incidents of gun arrests, with an average crime rate of 0.53 per 1,000 students in 2013, peaking at 0.80 in 2015. However, starting in 2016, there has been a striking decline in reported incidents, resulting in zero crime rates from 2016 through 2023. This significant drop suggests effective safety measures and policies that may have been implemented by the college to enhance student security and prevent criminal activities.

The absence of recorded crimes in recent years could reflect positively on the institution's environment, promoting a sense of safety among students and staff. This absence of crime could also lead to increased enrollment as prospective students often consider campus safety a critical factor in their decision-making process.

In light of national trends, many educational institutions face challenges related to campus safety. The decline in crime rates at Sandhills Community College stands out as an exception, potentially serving as a model for other colleges aiming to improve their safety records. Overall, the data indicates a favorable situation regarding campus safety, which is essential in fostering a conducive learning environment.

For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, you can find more information here: 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.