North Seattle College
Out-of-state tuition
$5,796
In-state $5,238
Peer median $11,384
Undergraduates
5,569
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 19 : 1
“Peers” are all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
North Seattle College (NSC) is a prominent community college located in the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington. Established in 1970, it is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to a diverse student population. NSC is known for its strong emphasis on community engagement and inclusivity, creating a welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds. The college offers a wide array of programs, including transfer degrees, professional technical degrees, and certificates in fields such as health sciences, technology, and the arts. Additionally, the college’s robust support services, including academic advising and career counseling, are designed to help students achieve their educational and professional goals.
The campus of North Seattle College features modern facilities equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enhancing the learning experience for students. The college prides itself on its dedicated faculty, many of whom are experienced professionals in their respective fields, ensuring that students receive top-notch instruction and mentorship. Beyond academics, NSC fosters a vibrant campus culture with various student clubs, organizations, and events that promote social interaction and personal development. The college's commitment to holistic education is reflected in its strong focus on student life, encouraging participation in extracurricular activities, athletics, and community service. This nurturing environment not only supports academic success but also prepares students for future career opportunities, underscoring NSC's role as a vital educational institution in the Seattle area.
Analysis of Trends in Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Gender Ratio at North Seattle College
Over the past decade, North Seattle College has seen significant fluctuations in its tuition rates and student enrollment. The in-state tuition for undergraduate students has increased from $3,862 in 2014 to $5,058 in 2023, reflecting a 31% rise over the period. This increase, coupled with a rise in out-of-state tuition, has implications for the college's accessibility, particularly for students from low-income backgrounds.
Student enrollment has steadily declined, from 6,118 in 2014 to 4,675 in 2023, representing a decrease of approximately 24%. This trend raises concerns regarding the college's ability to attract and retain students, especially amid rising tuition costs. Such a decline in enrollment can adversely affect the college's funding and resources, further perpetuating a cycle of reduced services and support for remaining students.
Additionally, the gender ratio has shifted over the years, showcasing a growing female student population. In 2013, female undergraduate students made up about 59.6% of the total, whereas this figure has climbed to approximately 62.6% by 2023. This ongoing trend may illustrate broader societal shifts in education, where more women pursue higher education.
In summary, North Seattle College faces challenges with rising tuition rates and declining enrollment, alongside notable changes in its gender demographics. Addressing these issues is crucial for the institution's future, as it seeks to maintain its mission of providing accessible and quality education to all students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Seattle, about 6 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 15 mi
- Also known as
- NSCC, North Seattle, NSC
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Rachel Solemsaas (President)
- Phone
- 2069343600
- City
- Seattle, Washington
- Address
- 9600 College Way North, Seattle, WA 98103-3599
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at North Seattle College
The graduation data from North Seattle College in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends, particularly in the fields of education, business, and computer science. In the Early Childhood Education and Teaching program, there were 53 graduates with only one being an international student, highlighting the program's strong local appeal and its capacity to serve domestic students. This trend is similarly mirrored in the Business Administration program, which produced 23 graduates, including 4 international students, indicating a growing interest in business studies among both local and international communities.
Conversely, the Computer Programming programs present a unique scenario. The program focused on specific applications graduated 26 students, with 2 international students, which suggests that the local job market for tech roles remains robust. However, there were no graduates reported in several other computer science categories, indicating potential gaps in enrollment or completion rates in those areas.
Additionally, health-related programs such as Registered Nursing and Medical/Clinical Assistant show no graduation numbers, which may reflect a broader trend in the healthcare education landscape amidst increasing demand for healthcare professionals. This absence raises concerns about the capacity of these programs to meet the workforce needs in a sector that has been under significant strain.
Overall, the data illustrates a strong emphasis on education, business, and technology fields, while also pointing out potential areas for growth, especially in healthcare education. As the demand for skilled professionals continues to evolve, North Seattle College will need to assess and adapt its programs to better serve both local and international students, ensuring they remain competitive and relevant in the 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 | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $43,848 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $58,426 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Real Estate. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | $51,551 | ||
| Computer Programming, Specific Applications. | $51,551 | ||
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Network and System Administration/Administrator. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Biomedical Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Watchmaking and Jewelrymaking. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Pharmacy Technician/Assistant. | $50,216 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | - |
Students
5,569 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63
- Continuing undergraduates 1,964
- First-year undergraduates 411
- Transfers and others 3,194
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,569)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at North Seattle College in 2023
The student demographics at North Seattle College reflect a diverse and evolving academic environment. In 2023, the college welcomed a total of 688 new undergraduate students, composed almost evenly between male (49.6%) and female (50.4%) students. This gender balance among new undergraduates is promising, as it indicates an effort to promote inclusivity.
However, the situation among continuing undergraduate students is different. The data shows that the number of continuing undergraduates is significantly higher at 1,629, but the gender ratio is skewed, with only 36.5% male students compared to 63.5% female students. This disparity raises questions about student retention and engagement strategies, particularly for male students, and suggests a need for the institution to implement targeted support services.
The transfer student demographic also mirrors this trend, with 427 students and a similar gender ratio of 36.8% male to 63.2% female. This consistent pattern across different student classifications may indicate systemic issues in attracting and retaining male students, which could have broader implications for campus culture and community.
Furthermore, the overall student population includes a significant representation of diverse ethnic backgrounds, although specific data on racial demographics within the continuing and transfer categories is not available. The presence of various ethnic groups is a vital aspect of the college's identity, contributing to a rich learning environment. As institutions like North Seattle College continue to adapt to changing demographics and societal trends, understanding and addressing these gender and diversity dynamics will be crucial in fostering an inclusive academic community.
Analysis of Age Composition at North Seattle College in 2023
The age distribution of students at North Seattle College in 2023 reveals some intriguing trends about the demographics of the institution. Notably, the largest group of undergraduate males is within the 18-19 age range, totaling 335, while undergraduate females in the same age category are slightly behind with 340. This suggests a healthy influx of young adults entering higher education, a trend that aligns with the increasing focus on college attendance among high school graduates.
As students age, the number of males remains relatively stable, but the female enrollment noticeably increases, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 age categories, where females outnumber males significantly. This could reflect a growing trend of mature students returning to education, possibly motivated by career advancement or personal development.
In the 25-29 age group, the female population again surpasses the male counterpart, with 329 females compared to 234 males. This demographic trend may indicate that females are prioritizing education later in life, which is consistent with broader national statistics showing an increase in female enrollment in higher education.
Additionally, the data shows a significant representation of students aged 40 and above, particularly females, highlighting the college's appeal to non-traditional students. The increasing participation of older students can be linked to lifelong learning initiatives and the need for upskilling in an ever-evolving job market.
Overall, North Seattle College appears to be fostering a diverse student body across various age groups, particularly with a strong representation of women in higher education, which is a positive sign for future educational and workforce engagement.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
233 in 2025 · 11.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at North Seattle College
The data from North Seattle College reflects a notable shift in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population has seen significant fluctuations. In the early years, the proportion was relatively low, around 4.34%, but by 2014, it peaked at 10.85%. This growth can be attributed to the increasing global interest in U.S. higher education and the college's efforts to attract a diverse student body.
However, a troubling trend emerges post-2014, as the percentage of international students began to decline sharply, reaching just 3.02% by 2023. This decline may be influenced by several factors, including changing immigration policies, the global pandemic's impact on international travel and education, and a more competitive landscape for attracting international students.
The steady decrease in both the number of international students and their proportion within the undergraduate population raises questions about the institution's appeal and the broader implications for community colleges in the U.S. As colleges like North Seattle reassess their strategies, there may be an opportunity to revitalize international student recruitment efforts through enhanced support services, partnerships with foreign institutions, and targeted marketing strategies.
Overall, while the earlier years showcased a thriving international community, the recent downturn highlights the challenges faced by educational institutions in maintaining diversity and global engagement in a rapidly changing world.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$24,837
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $5,796
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,238
- Room and board
- $19,041
Peer median tuition + room and board $23,440 · all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -36% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 95%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$79.4M
Expenses$71.6M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/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
-
University of Washington-Seattle CampusSeattle · 3.3 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Seattle Pacific UniversitySeattle · 3.6 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Seattle UniversitySeattle · 6.2 mi
U.S. News #179
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 30.8 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 152.0 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Reed CollegePortland · 153.9 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Pacific UniversityForest Grove · 154.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 156.1 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
George Fox UniversityNewberg · 168.2 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities surrounding North Seattle College:
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Ranked 40th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is renowned for its research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Seattle Pacific University - With a rank of 269, this comprehensive university emphasizes a strong liberal arts education integrated with Christian values.
-
Seattle University - Ranked 163rd, this university is known for its commitment to social justice and community service, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Puget Sound - This liberal arts college is ranked 89th and is recognized for its small class sizes and personalized education approach.
-
Reed College - Ranked 67th, Reed is a highly selective liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on critical thinking.
-
Whitman College - With a rank of 46, this liberal arts college is celebrated for its strong focus on undergraduate education and vibrant campus community.
These institutions provide a rich array of educational opportunities in close proximity to North Seattle College.
Peer median 0.7 · all 47 public mixed baccalaureate/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 North Seattle College
The data from North Seattle College presents a fluctuating trend in the crime rates over the years, with a notable peak in 2017, where the crime rate soared to 5.59 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike raises concerns regarding safety on campus, particularly considering that the rates of gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses may contribute significantly to this increase.
Interestingly, after 2017, the crime rate experienced a decline, reaching its lowest point in 2021 with only 0.19 incidents per 1,000 students. This sharp decrease may reflect effective interventions, increased security measures, or a shift in students' behavior and campus culture. However, the resurgence in 2023, with a rate of 3.85, indicates that vigilance is still necessary.
Moreover, the data reveals that while some years experienced a variety of incidents, the absence of on-campus incidents in many categories suggests that many offenses may occur off-campus, which might not be fully captured in the campus safety narrative.
In light of these trends, it is essential for the college administration to continue monitoring these statistics closely and implement proactive measures to ensure a safe and secure environment for all students. Engaging with students about safety and creating awareness about reporting incidents can also foster a safer campus culture.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at the following 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.