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Public, 2-year

Lamar State College-Port Arthur

Port Arthur, Texas · www.lamarpa.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$8,070

In-state $1,770

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

4,680

Student-faculty ratio 29:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

30.2%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 34.3%

Peer median 33.7%

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

About

Lamar State College-Port Arthur (LSCPA) is a vibrant educational institution located in Port Arthur, Texas, that offers a unique blend of academic programs and a supportive community atmosphere. Established in 1909, LSCPA is part of the Texas State University System and serves as a crucial educational resource in the region. The college is characterized by its commitment to student success, offering a variety of programs in fields such as nursing, business, and technology. The school's motto, "Success Starts Here," reflects its dedication to providing students with the tools and resources they need to achieve their academic and career goals.

The campus of Lamar State College-Port Arthur is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and a library that supports a diverse range of learning activities. The college boasts a strong faculty composed of experienced educators and industry professionals who are dedicated to fostering an engaging and interactive learning environment. Beyond academics, LSCPA promotes a rich campus culture with various student organizations, athletics, and community engagement opportunities. This inclusive and dynamic environment encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, enhancing their college experience and preparing them for future endeavors. With a focus on both academic excellence and personal growth, Lamar State College-Port Arthur is well-positioned to empower its students for success in an ever-evolving world.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Lamar State College-Port Arthur

The tuition fees at Lamar State College-Port Arthur have experienced significant fluctuation over the years. From 2014 to 2019, in-state tuition steadily increased, reaching $6,013. However, a drastic drop occurred in 2020, where it fell to $4,331, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic implications. This reduction in costs may have been an effort to support students during a challenging time. As of 2023, the in-state tuition has remained at $1,770, which is significantly lower than previous years, indicating a strategic move to attract more students in light of changing enrollment trends.

The student enrollment figures mirror these trends, showing a peak of 2,537 students in 2020. Since then, numbers have fluctuated, culminating in 2,600 students in 2023. This slight increase, compared to the previous years, could indicate a stabilizing interest in the institution, potentially bolstered by lower tuition fees.

Moreover, the retention rates have shown a notable increase, jumping from around 53% in 2013 to approximately 72% in 2023. This positive trend suggests that the college has made effective improvements in student support and academic success initiatives, fostering a more engaging learning environment that encourages students to continue their studies.

Lastly, the graduation rates, while showing some volatility, have seen a general improvement. The timely graduation rate for the most recent year reported is around 13.4%, which reflects ongoing efforts by the college to enhance student completion rates. This improvement in graduation rates, alongside rising retention rates, illustrates a positive trajectory in student outcomes, suggesting that the institution is increasingly effective in supporting and guiding students towards their academic goals.

Overall, the combination of reduced tuition, increased retention, and improved graduation rates paints a promising picture for Lamar State College-Port Arthur, indicating that the institution is adapting to both economic challenges and the needs of its student population.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Houston, about 90 mi
Nearest international airport
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), about 90 mi
Port Arthur, Texas
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. John Hayek (Interim President)
Phone
4099846342
City
Port Arthur, Texas
Address
1500 Proctor St, Port Arthur, TX 77640

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate4380 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
General Studies
211
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
58
Chemical Technology/Technician
47
Business Administration and Management, General
25
Instrumentation Technology/Technician
22
Surgical Technology/Technologist
15
Computer Programming/Programmer, General
8
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
8
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling
7
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General
6

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Lamar State College-Port Arthur

The graduation data from Lamar State College-Port Arthur for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various fields of study. Notably, all degree categories, including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate, show no graduates in the latter three tiers, indicating a strong focus primarily on associate degrees. This trend suggests that the college may be catering to students seeking entry-level qualifications or immediate employment opportunities rather than pursuing advanced degrees.

Among the associate degree graduates, the fields of Business Administration, Registered Nursing, and Accounting Technology stand out with 28, 46, and 7 graduates, respectively. This aligns with the increasing demand for skilled professionals in business and healthcare fields, particularly in light of ongoing labor shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The significant number of graduates in Registered Nursing is particularly noteworthy, as healthcare continues to be a priority for educational institutions and policymakers.

Furthermore, the data indicates that there are no international students graduating in any degree category, which may reflect a broader trend in U.S. colleges where international enrollment has been impacted due to various factors, including visa policies and global events like the pandemic.

In summary, this graduation data illustrates a concentrated focus on associate degrees, especially in high-demand sectors such as healthcare and business. The absence of international student graduates raises questions about the college's global engagement strategies and highlights the need for institutions to adapt to changing demographics in higher education.

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 211 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
General Studies.-
Health professionshas 83 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Medical Insurance Coding Specialist/Coder.-
Surgical Technology/Technologist.-
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$77,870
Science technologies has 47 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Chemical Technology/Technician.$48,914
Businesshas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.-
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.-
Engineering technologieshas 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Instrumentation Technology/Technician.-
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Computer Programming/Programmer, General.-
Homeland security has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Educationhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.-
Culinary has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General.-
Culinary Arts/Chef Training.-
Visual and Performing artshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Graphic Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Mechanic and repair has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.-
Legal professionshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.-

Students

4,680 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 67.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,680)

Hispanic
2,027 · 43.3%
White
1,036 · 22.1%
Black
1,011 · 21.6%
Unknown
416 · 8.9%
Asian
141 · 3.0%
Two or more races
16 · 0.3%
International
2 · 0.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
66.1%
18–19
9.6%
20–21
4.9%
22–24
4.8%
25 and over
14.6%

Data insights

Demographic Insights at Lamar State College-Port Arthur for 2023

The demographic data for Lamar State College-Port Arthur in 2023 presents a diverse student body, showcasing a notable gender imbalance across different categories. Among the incoming undergraduate freshmen, approximately 32.9% are male, while females constitute a significant 67.1%. This trend continues among the continuing undergraduate students, where males account for 38.9% and females for 61.1%. Such statistics indicate a strong female presence in the college, which aligns with broader trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.

In the transfer student category, the gender disparity is even more pronounced, with only 26.8% males compared to 73.2% females. This suggests potential challenges for male engagement and retention, prompting discussions about the factors influencing these trends. Additionally, the presence of the non-degree seeking students, while small in number, further reflects the college's commitment to accommodating diverse student needs.

When examining the ethnic composition among these groups, white students form a significant portion, particularly among the freshmen and continuing students. The representation of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and African American students, highlights the college's role in fostering an inclusive environment. However, the data signifies a need for increased support and outreach to minority groups to enhance their presence in higher education.

Overall, these statistics present an opportunity for Lamar State College-Port Arthur to address gender imbalances and strengthen its commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to thrive academically and socially.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Lamar State College-Port Arthur

The age distribution of students at Lamar State College-Port Arthur reveals a predominantly young demographic, with a remarkable concentration of students under the age of 24. The data shows that students under 18 represent a significant portion, with 505 male and 573 female students, indicating that high school graduates are a critical segment of the college's population.

Moving into the 18-19 age bracket, both male and female enrollment remains substantial, with 147 males and 246 females. This trend continues through the 20-21 age group, although there is a noticeable drop in male enrollment at 119, while female enrollment stands at 172. As we progress to older age categories, the numbers decrease significantly. For instance, in the 22-24 age range, there are only 72 males and 153 females, suggesting that most students tend to complete their undergraduate studies before the age of 24.

Interestingly, the data indicates a near absence of graduate male students; this could reflect broader trends in graduate education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees. For instance, the statistics show that there are no male graduate students recorded at all, while 110 females are enrolled in graduate studies.

Overall, the data highlights a vibrant, youthful academic environment at Lamar State College-Port Arthur, with a strong female presence, especially in graduate programs, reflecting national trends in higher education where women are earning degrees at higher rates than men. This demographic insight can be essential for developing tailored educational programs and support services that address the specific needs of this student population.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.0%

2 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.3%2017: 0.3%2018: 0.2%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.1%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Lamar State College-Port Arthur

The data on international student enrollment at Lamar State College-Port Arthur reveals a noteworthy trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated significantly, with a peak of 9 students in 2008 and a troubling decline to just 2 students by 2023. This decline is particularly concerning, as it reflects a decrease in the percentage of international students from 0.36% in 2004 to a mere 0.08% in 2023.

Several factors may contribute to this trend. The global landscape for higher education has changed dramatically over the years, with increased competition from other countries that offer attractive educational programs. Furthermore, challenges such as visa restrictions, economic uncertainties, and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic may have deterred prospective international students from considering institutions like Lamar State College-Port Arthur.

Additionally, the lack of data on graduate students further complicates the analysis, making it difficult to draw comprehensive conclusions about overall trends in international enrollment across all levels of study. This situation highlights the importance of colleges actively promoting their programs and creating supportive environments for international students to enhance their attractiveness as study destinations.

As institutions of higher education navigate these challenges, it will be crucial for them to implement strategies that not only attract international students but also support their success and integration within the campus community. The future of international education at Lamar State College-Port Arthur hinges on the ability to adapt and respond to these changing dynamics.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$19,370

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$8,070
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$1,770
Room and board
$11,300
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 -53% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 146%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$48.8M

Government grants and contracts
$31.4M64.5%
Tuition and fees
$3.7M7.5%
Investment return
$1.4M2.8%
Gifts and private grants
$1.3M2.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$174K0.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$153K0.3%
Other
$10.7M21.9%

Expenses$38.8M

Instruction
$13.8M35.6%
Institutional support
$7.0M18.0%
Academic support
$5.1M13.0%
Scholarships
$4.6M11.8%
Student services
$2.2M5.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.3M3.5%
Public service
$447K1.2%
Other
$4.4M11.4%

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
$49,217peers $68,588
Professor
$58,649peers $79,972
Associate professor
$65,124peers $69,677
Assistant professor
$61,217peers $62,785
Instructor
$48,696peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
2025
NJCAA Division I MENWOMEN
Softball-15
Basketball12-
2024
NJCAA Division IMENWOMEN
Softball-17
Basketball14-
2023
NJCAA Division IMENWOMEN
Softball-17
Basketball13-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Lamar State College-Port Arthur:

  1. University of Houston - Ranked 133 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university is known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Rice University - A prestigious institution ranked 17th, Rice University offers a high-quality education with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.

  3. Texas A & M University-College Station - Ranked 47, this comprehensive university is recognized for its strong engineering and agricultural programs.

  4. Baylor University - With a ranking of 93, Baylor is a private Christian university known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service.

  5. Tulane University of Louisiana - Ranked 73, Tulane is renowned for its programs in public health, architecture, and social work, offering a unique blend of academic rigor and vibrant campus culture.

  6. The University of Texas at Austin - This comprehensive university is highly ranked at 32, known for its research programs and diverse student body.

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

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Stalking
10
Burglary
8
Dating violence
4
Domestic violence
2
Robbery
1
Liquor arrests
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Lamar State College-Port Arthur

The data from Lamar State College-Port Arthur reveals a fluctuating pattern in crime rates over the years, with a notable spike in 2018 where the rate reached 2.62 incidents per 1,000 students. The most recent year, 2023, also shows a significant increase, with a rate of 2.31, indicating a concerning trend that may require further investigation and intervention.

The types of crimes recorded primarily include gun-related arrests and incidents of domestic violence, with the data suggesting that gun-related arrests were particularly prominent in the years that followed the spike in 2018. This pattern aligns with broader societal concerns regarding gun violence in educational institutions across the United States, reflecting a need for increased campus security and preventive measures.

Interestingly, 2014 stands out as a year with zero recorded incidents, which might indicate effective preventive strategies or a need for a more thorough data collection process. However, the overall trend from 2015 onward suggests that the college environment is not immune to crime, particularly in the context of drug-related offenses and domestic abuse, which have been significant issues in many college settings nationally.

The rise in reported incidents in recent years could mirror the national increase in crime rates post-pandemic, where many institutions are grappling with the impacts of social unrest and mental health challenges among students. It is crucial for the college administration to address these concerns proactively, ensuring the safety and well-being of its students.

For more information on calculating crime rates, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

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.