Vernon College
Out-of-state tuition
$6,120
In-state $4,680
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
2,299
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
18.4%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 20.9%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Vernon College, located in Vernon, Texas, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering student success. Established in 1920, the college has a rich history and a strong emphasis on community involvement and service. With a diverse range of programs, Vernon College offers associate degrees and certificates in various fields, including healthcare, business, and technology, catering to the needs of its student population and the local workforce. The college prides itself on its small class sizes, which promote individualized attention and support from faculty, ensuring that students receive a personalized educational experience.
In addition to its strong academic programs, Vernon College boasts a vibrant campus culture that emphasizes student engagement and extracurricular activities. The college supports various student organizations and clubs that allow students to explore their interests and develop leadership skills. Vernon College also has a commitment to athletics, offering competitive sports programs that encourage teamwork and physical fitness. The college’s dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive environment contributes to a positive student life experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking higher education in Texas. Overall, Vernon College stands out as a community-focused institution that prepares students for successful careers and lifelong learning.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Vernon College
Vernon College, a public institution, has exhibited noticeable fluctuations in several key educational metrics over the years. One of the most significant aspects is the tuition fees for in-state undergraduate students, which have steadily increased from $4,200 in 2014 to $5,040 in 2024. This represents a 20% increase over a decade, reflecting the broader trend across many educational institutions where rising operational costs are often passed on to students.
In conjunction with rising tuition, student enrollment has seen a concerning decline. The number of undergraduate students dropped from 3,118 in 2013 to just 2,249 in 2023, marking a decrease of approximately 28%. This decline raises alarms about accessibility and the potential long-term implications for the institution's financial stability and community engagement.
Moreover, the graduation rate has been particularly troubling, especially for on-time graduation. The rate plummeted to about 4.7% by 2022, with only a slight increase to 11.5% in 2023, indicating significant challenges in student retention and success. This alarming trend suggests that many students are struggling to complete their degrees, possibly due to the increasing financial burden and inadequate support systems.
In terms of gender distribution, the ratio of male to female undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, with women consistently making up approximately 64% to 67% of the undergraduate population. This consistent trend highlights the gender dynamics within the student body, warranting further investigation into recruitment and support strategies for male students.
Overall, the combination of rising tuition, declining enrollment, low graduation rates, and gender distribution raises important questions about Vernon College's future strategies to improve student outcomes and ensure financial sustainability. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution to remain a viable educational option for its community.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Oklahoma City, about 140 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 160 mi
- Also known as
- Vernon Regional Junior College VRJC VC Vernon
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dusty R. Johnston, Ed.D. (President)
- Phone
- 9405526291
- Address
- 4400 College Dr., Vernon, TX 76384-4092
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Vernon College
The graduation data from Vernon College reveals significant trends, particularly in associate degrees. Among the various programs, Registered Nursing stands out with the highest number of graduates, totaling 76 students. This highlights the growing demand for healthcare professionals, a trend that has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has underscored the importance of skilled nursing staff.
Interestingly, the data shows that several programs, primarily in technical fields such as Computer Science and Engineering, have not produced any graduates at the bachelor's or master's levels. This could suggest a need for improved recruitment and retention strategies in these areas, as the job market for technology and engineering professionals remains robust. The absence of international students graduating in these fields also points to potential barriers in attracting global talent, which may be crucial for the future workforce.
Moreover, the data indicates that general studies and early childhood education programs have graduated a modest number of students, with 118 and 7 graduates respectively. This reflects a stable interest in foundational and pedagogical studies, essential for nurturing future generations.
In summary, while some programs excel, particularly in the health sector, there are notable gaps in technical fields that Vernon College may need to address. As the education landscape evolves, focusing on attracting international students and enhancing technical program offerings could be vital for the institution's growth and relevance in a competitive job market.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $34,218 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $76,905 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installation/Installer, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Farm/Farm and Ranch Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | - |
Students
2,299 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 35:65 · Freshman retention 41.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,667
- First-year undergraduates 210
- Transfers and others 422
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,299)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Vernon College for 2023
The student composition at Vernon College reveals significant insights into the demographics of the institution in 2023. The total undergraduate new students amount to 298, with a noticeable gender distribution where 41.6% are male and 58.4% are female. This trend continues among undergraduate continuing students, where females comprise an even larger portion at 67.2%, compared to 32.8% male students. Such a skewed gender ratio could reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been on the rise.
Furthermore, the data shows that undergraduate transfer students account for 123 individuals, with males making up 38.2% and females 61.8%. It is important to note that these gender ratios illustrate a consistent pattern across the various student classifications, indicating a potential cultural shift in educational aspirations and access among genders.
The data also includes a category labeled as "nd" for non-degree students, which encompasses 312 individuals with a relatively balanced gender ratio of 44.9% males and 55.1% females. This could suggest that non-degree programs are attracting a diverse group of learners, possibly including part-time students or those seeking skill enhancement.
The breakdown of student demographics by race is particularly noteworthy, although detailed statistics are not fully provided in the data. The presence of various ethnic groups, especially the significant representation of white students, aligns with national trends in community colleges and could inform recruitment strategies moving forward.
Overall, Vernon College's demographic data points towards a growing female presence in higher education, along with a diverse student body that reflects the changing landscape of community colleges across the nation. This analysis highlights the need for continued support and resources tailored to the unique needs of all student demographics.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Vernon College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Vernon College in 2023 shows a clear predominance of younger individuals, particularly those under the age of 24. The largest cohort is comprised of students aged 18-19, with a total of 532 enrolled, which constitutes approximately 45% of the total student body. This trend is indicative of the traditional age range for college students, aligning with recent national patterns where younger students are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school.
Moreover, the under-18 age group also demonstrates significant numbers, with 523 students enrolled, highlighting the institution's appeal to high school graduates. This trend could be linked to educational initiatives aimed at encouraging early enrollment in college programs.
Interestingly, as we move into older age groups, the numbers dwindle significantly. For instance, only 47 students fall within the 30-34 age bracket, and just one student is over the age of 65. This declining trend in enrollment among older age groups may reflect broader societal factors such as the need for mid-career changes or the challenges faced by adult learners in balancing education with work and family commitments.
The absence of graduate male and female students within the given data suggests a focus on undergraduate programs at Vernon College, which may warrant further investigation into the availability and appeal of graduate-level offerings. Overall, the age composition data underscores the college's role in shaping the educational landscape for younger demographics while also indicating potential areas for growth in attracting older students and graduate programs.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
7 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Vernon College
The data on international student enrollment at Vernon College reveals significant fluctuations over the years from 2004 to 2023. Initially, the percentage of international undergraduates was relatively low, peaking at 0.51% in 2022. This indicates a potential increase in the college's appeal to international students, especially considering the considerable drop in overall undergraduate numbers in recent years.
In the earlier years, from 2004 to 2010, the number of international students was minimal, with figures as low as 2 students in 2011. The data suggests that the college may not have prioritized attracting international talent during this period, possibly due to limited resources or strategic focus. However, from 2019 onwards, there was a notable resurgence in international student enrollment, particularly in 2022. This could reflect enhanced recruitment efforts or increased global interest in Vernon College's offerings.
The recent years, especially 2023, show a decline in both total undergraduate enrollment and the number of international students, with only 6 out of 2249 students being international. This trend raises concerns about the college's ability to sustain or grow its international student population, which is crucial for fostering diversity and enriching the academic environment.
Overall, the trends indicate that while there are moments of growth, the college faces challenges in consistently attracting international students. As higher education institutions increasingly compete for global talent, Vernon College may need to develop a more robust strategy to enhance its international visibility and appeal to prospective students worldwide.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$12,440
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $6,120
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,680
- Room and board
- $6,320
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 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$25.6M
Expenses$23.9M
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 NJCAA · Other
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Rodeo | - | - |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Rodeo | - | - |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Rodeo | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 128.9 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of North TexasDenton · 140.9 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth · 150.8 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock · 151.9 mi
U.S. News #186
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 161.0 mi
U.S. News #236
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 168.7 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 172.1 mi
U.S. News #85
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 185.9 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 221.0 mi
U.S. News #90
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Vernon College:
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and a vibrant campus life.
-
Texas Christian University - With a ranking of 98, TCU is a private university that offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a well-rounded education and community service.
-
The University of Texas at Arlington - Ranked 236, UT Arlington provides a diverse range of academic programs and is recognized for its commitment to research and innovation.
-
Southern Methodist University - SMU is ranked 89 and is known for its strong business, law, and arts programs, providing a vibrant campus atmosphere and extensive alumni network.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station - This prestigious university ranks 47 and is recognized for its engineering, business, and agricultural programs, along with a strong emphasis on leadership and public service.
-
University of Arkansas - Ranked 178, this university is known for its strong programs in business, education, and engineering, along with a beautiful campus in Fayetteville.
These institutions offer a range of academic opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
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 Vernon College
The crime statistics at Vernon College over the years reveal a fluctuating pattern in campus safety. In 2013, the crime rate was relatively low at 0.32 incidents per 1,000 students, with a slight increase to 0.39 in 2014. However, there was a significant rise in incidents in 2019, which recorded a rate of 1.77 per 1,000 students, the highest in the dataset. This spike raises concerns and highlights the need for enhanced safety measures and awareness programs on campus.
Interestingly, the years following 2019 show a decline in crime rates, with 2020 and 2021 reporting some of the lowest figures—0.14 and 0.00 respectively. The absence of reported incidents in 2021 could indicate effective interventions or simply a reflection of the unique circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activities.
The data shows a variety of crime types, including arrests related to gun possession, drugs, and alcohol, as well as incidents of domestic violence and assault. The fact that incidents have decreased in recent years is a positive trend, suggesting that efforts to improve campus safety may be taking effect. Nonetheless, the spike in 2019 serves as a reminder that vigilance is necessary to maintain a safe environment for students.
Overall, the statistics reflect the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students. For a deeper understanding of crime rate calculations, you can 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.