New River Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$11,417
In-state $4,979
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
4,254
Student-faculty ratio 33:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
43.8%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 47.5%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
New River Community College (NRCC) is a well-respected institution in Virginia, known for its commitment to providing quality education and fulfilling the diverse needs of its community. Established in 1970, NRCC serves a wide range of students, from those seeking associate degrees to those looking to enhance their skills through various certificate programs. The college offers over 60 programs of study, focusing on areas such as health sciences, business, and technology, which are designed to promote student success and workforce readiness. NRCC emphasizes experiential learning, with opportunities such as internships and practical training that prepare students for their future careers.
The college is situated in a picturesque location, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains, which enhances the overall educational experience. NRCC fosters a supportive learning environment, characterized by small class sizes that allow for personalized attention from faculty members. The college boasts a dedicated and experienced staff who are committed to student success and engagement. Moreover, NRCC emphasizes the importance of community involvement and encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities and service projects. This commitment to community service not only enriches the student experience but also contributes positively to the local community. Overall, New River Community College stands out as a hub for education, growth, and development, making it a great choice for students looking to further their education and career prospects.
Tuition Trends and Student Outcomes at New River Community College
The tuition data from New River Community College reveals a steady increase over the years, particularly for in-state students, whose tuition rose from approximately $3,169 in 2014 to $4,835 in 2024. This represents an increase of about 52%. The out-of-state tuition also saw a significant rise from $7,840 to $10,837, illustrating a growing financial burden on students seeking higher education at this institution. Notably, while tuition escalates, the student enrollment has been declining, dropping from 5,083 in 2013 to 3,980 in 2023. This trend may suggest that increasing costs are deterring potential students, which is a concern echoed in broader discussions regarding higher education affordability across the United States.
Moreover, the graduation rates show a positive trajectory, with the on-time graduation rate climbing from 11.35% in 2013 to 30.56% in 2023. This increase suggests that despite declining enrollment, those who do enroll are more likely to complete their studies within the expected timeframe. Additionally, the retention rates have fluctuated but generally remain above 58%, indicating that once students are enrolled, many choose to stay and continue their education.
The male-to-female ratio in undergraduate enrollment has also shown minor fluctuations over the years, with a slight increase in male students in recent years. The most recent data indicates approximately 51.06% male and 48.94% female enrollment, which reflects a more balanced gender distribution in the student population.
In conclusion, while the college faces challenges with rising tuition and declining enrollment, the improvements in graduation rates and retention suggest that the institution is successfully supporting its students who remain enrolled. Addressing tuition concerns will be crucial for attracting new students and ensuring the long-term viability of the college.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Winston-Salem, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- NRCC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Robert Brandon (President)
- Phone
- 5406743600
- Address
- 5251 College Drive, Dublin, VA 24084-3660
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from New River Community College
The graduation data from New River Community College for 2023 reveals some noteworthy trends and insights, particularly regarding the distribution of degrees awarded across different fields of study. A significant observation is that the institution predominantly awards associate degrees, with a total of 381 graduates in this category. This is indicative of the college's focus on providing accessible, practical education that meets local workforce needs.
Among the various programs, Liberal Arts and Sciences stands out with 259 graduates, representing approximately 68% of all associate degrees conferred. This aligns with national trends where liberal arts education continues to draw a considerable number of students, likely due to its broad applicability in various career paths. Additionally, the health-related fields, particularly Registered Nursing, also show a robust output with 46 graduates, reflecting the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the current job market.
Conversely, there is a noticeable absence of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as all these categories show zero graduates. This might suggest that New River Community College primarily functions as a community college offering associate degrees rather than as a four-year institution. It also indicates potential opportunities for future program expansion, particularly in fields where advanced degrees are increasingly valued.
Furthermore, the lack of international graduates in any degree category may reflect broader trends in higher education, where international student enrollment has fluctuated due to various global factors, including travel restrictions and changing immigration policies. The college might consider strategies to attract a more diverse student body to enhance its educational offerings and campus culture.
Overall, the data highlights New River Community College's vital role in providing foundational education and skills to meet local labor market demands, while also presenting avenues for potential growth and diversification in its academic programs.
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. | $29,470 | |
| General Studies. | $29,470 | |
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $29,470 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $71,812 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | $62,213-$78,635 | |
| CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,821 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $44,821 | |
| Accounting and Related Services, Other. | - | |
| Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services, Other. | $35,901 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician. | $74,804 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $37,097 | |
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Precision Metal Working, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
Students
4,254 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 67.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,247
- First-year undergraduates 461
- Transfers and others 2,546
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,254)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at New River Community College (2023)
In 2023, New River Community College showcases a diverse student body, with a total enrollment reflecting various academic classifications. The college has a notable number of undergraduate freshmen, totaling 584 students. Their gender distribution indicates a slight male majority, with 55.8% identifying as male, which suggests a healthy balance in gender representation for this cohort.
Looking at the undergraduate continuing students, there is a significant enrollment of 1,165 individuals. Interestingly, this group has a higher percentage of female students, at 52.6%, which aligns with broader trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment in many institutions.
Moreover, the college accommodates 139 undergraduate transfer students, with a male majority of 56.8%. The transfer demographic is crucial as it often represents students seeking new opportunities and pathways in their educational journey.
The overall student body also includes a large number of non-degree seeking students, totaling 2,092. This group exhibits a nearly equal gender distribution, indicating a more inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their academic goals.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the detailed breakdown of the student demographics is essential for understanding the representation within the college. However, it is evident that the college is actively working towards fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes students from various backgrounds. This commitment is vital for preparing students for a diverse workforce and society.
Overall, the demographic data from New River Community College underscores the importance of gender balance and diversity in higher education, reflecting ongoing trends and societal shifts. As colleges continue to adapt to the changing educational landscape, these statistics offer valuable insights into student composition and institutional priorities.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at New River Community College
The age demographics of students at New River Community College reveal significant insights into the composition of the student body. A notable trend is the predominance of younger students, particularly those under the age of 24, who comprise a substantial portion of the total enrollment. Specifically, students under 18 years account for approximately 48% of the total male students and 49% of the total female students. This indicates a strong influx of high school graduates entering college, reflecting a broader national trend of increasing enrollment rates among younger populations.
As we examine the age groups from 18 to 24, the numbers begin to decline, with the 22-24 age bracket showing a further decrease in enrollment. This drop may suggest that students are either entering the workforce earlier or choosing to pursue alternative educational paths. For instance, the 25-29 age group only represents about 14% of the total male and female students, which is relatively low compared to the younger cohorts.
The presence of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, is noticeably minimal, with individuals over 65 years comprising less than 1% of the student population. This may reflect societal trends where adults are less inclined to return to formal education later in life, potentially due to financial, familial, or professional commitments.
Overall, the data indicates a youthful and predominantly traditional-age student body at New River Community College, which aligns with national educational trends emphasizing early college enrollment. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for institutions to adapt their programs and support services to meet the needs of diverse age groups and learning preferences.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
62 in 2025 · 2.3% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Enrollment Trends at New River Community College
The data from New River Community College reveals interesting trends in international student enrollment over the years. Starting from 2004, the number of international undergraduate students was quite low, accounting for only 0.32% of the total undergraduate population. However, there has been a noticeable upward trajectory in the subsequent years. By 2016, international students represented a significant 2.26% of the undergraduate population, reflecting an increasing interest in the college from foreign students.
This trend appears to have peaked in 2020, when the percentage rose to 2.68%, possibly influenced by the global phenomenon of international education where students seek diverse educational experiences. The subsequent years, 2021 and 2022, showed a decline in enrollment numbers, with percentages dropping to 1.45% and 1.13%, respectively. This decline may be attributed to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education.
In 2023, the enrollment of international students rebounded slightly to 1.51%, suggesting a gradual recovery as travel restrictions ease. The rise and fall of international student numbers also highlight the importance of external factors, such as global health crises and changes in immigration policies, which significantly influence students' decisions to study abroad.
Overall, while New River Community College has seen fluctuations in international enrollment, the increasing percentages over a decade indicate a growing appeal among international students, underscoring the college's potential as a destination for global education.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$19,417
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $11,417
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,979
- Room and board
- $8,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 12% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 74%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$37.0M
Expenses$32.6M
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
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg · 17.3 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 71.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Washington and Lee UniversityLexington · 83.4 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Virginia Military InstituteLexington · 83.7 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 86.9 mi
U.S. News #208
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 87.8 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Elon UniversityElon · 95.7 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Davidson CollegeDavidson · 111.2 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 123.1 mi
U.S. News #27
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near New River Community College:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, vibrant campus life, and strong athletic traditions.
-
University of Virginia-Main Campus - With a rank of 24, the University of Virginia is a public research university located in Charlottesville, Virginia. It is recognized for its strong liberal arts curriculum and its beautiful campus designed by Thomas Jefferson.
-
Wake Forest University - Also ranked 47, Wake Forest University is a private institution in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is known for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on the liberal arts.
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - This university ranks 47th and is located in Blacksburg, Virginia. Known commonly as Virginia Tech, it offers a wide range of programs and is particularly recognized for its engineering and technology focus.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Ranking 22nd, this public university is located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and is well-known for its research initiatives and comprehensive undergraduate programs.
-
Davidson College - Davidson College, ranked 16th, is a private liberal arts college located in Davidson, North Carolina. It is noted for its commitment to academic rigor and a strong honor code.
These institutions represent a range of educational opportunities from liberal arts to research-focused programs, making the area around New River Community College rich in academic resources.
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 New River Community College
The crime data from New River Community College reveals a notable trend of decreasing crime rates over the years, particularly in serious offenses. In 2013, the average crime rate was 2.56 incidents per 1,000 students, primarily driven by arrests related to firearms. However, this figure dropped dramatically in subsequent years, with the lowest recorded crime rates occurring from 2015 to 2019, where no incidents were reported.
The spike in crime in 2020, with an average of 1.85 incidents per 1,000 students, can be attributed to a resurgence in firearm-related arrests, reflecting broader national concerns regarding campus safety and gun violence. Nonetheless, the college seems to have returned to a period of relative safety in the following years, with crime rates dropping back down to zero in 2023.
These statistics are encouraging for current and prospective students, indicating that the campus environment is becoming increasingly safer. Colleges nationwide are focusing on improving safety and reducing crime, which is vital for creating a conducive learning environment. As seen in the patterns from New River Community College, effective policies and community engagement can lead to significant reductions in crime rates, enhancing the overall student experience.
For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this 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.