Northern Wyoming Community College District
Out-of-state tuition
$11,130
In-state $4,830
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
3,534
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
42.9%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 47.0%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Northern Wyoming Community College District (NWCCD) is a prominent educational institution located in north-central Wyoming, serving the communities of Sheridan, Gillette, and Buffalo. Established in 1946, NWCCD is dedicated to providing accessible and affordable education. The college's mission emphasizes student success, community engagement, and lifelong learning, fostering an inclusive environment where learners can thrive. The institution offers a diverse array of programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training, catering to various interests and career paths. With a strong focus on practical skills and real-world applications, NWCCD prepares its students for successful careers in fields such as healthcare, technology, and the arts.
The college boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces. The campus culture is vibrant, with numerous student organizations and clubs that encourage involvement and leadership. From academic competitions to cultural events, NWCCD promotes a well-rounded experience for its students. Additionally, the college has a strong commitment to athletics, offering various sports programs that enhance school spirit and foster teamwork among students. Graduates from NWCCD have a strong track record of employment, benefiting from the college's extensive partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Overall, Northern Wyoming Community College District stands out as a community-oriented institution dedicated to empowering students and enriching the local community.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Northern Wyoming Community College District
The data from Northern Wyoming Community College District reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention that merit discussion.
Over the years, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen from $2,792 in 2014 to $4,830 in 2023, representing a staggering increase of approximately 73%. For out-of-state students, the rise is even steeper, moving from $6,584 to $11,130, which translates to a 69% increase. This substantial growth in tuition costs raises concerns about accessibility for prospective students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds who may find it increasingly difficult to afford higher education.
In terms of graduation rates, the percentage of students graduating on time (100% graduation rate) peaked at 37.2% in 2021 but has since declined to 28.9% in 2023. This downward trend is alarming and may indicate challenges in student engagement or support services. The 150% graduation rate also reflects similar patterns, suggesting that while some students eventually graduate, many are not completing their degrees in a timely manner.
Retention rates, which indicate the percentage of students who continue their education at the same institution from one year to the next, have fluctuated but showed a positive trend recently, increasing from 48.5% in 2021 to 60.9% in 2023. This upward movement may suggest improvements in student satisfaction and institutional support, which are critical for fostering a supportive academic environment.
Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained consistent at around 16 to 17 students per faculty member, which is generally favorable. A lower ratio often correlates with better academic support and personalized attention for students, factors that can enhance retention and graduation rates.
In conclusion, while Northern Wyoming Community College District has made strides in student retention, the rising tuition and declining graduation rates present significant challenges that need to be addressed. Ensuring that education remains accessible and that students receive the necessary support to succeed will be essential in maintaining the institution's integrity and mission.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Ogden, about 350 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Denver International Airport (DEN), about 360 mi
- Also known as
- Northern Wyoming Community College District, Sheridan College, Gillette College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Walter Tribley (President)
- Phone
- 30767505050
- Address
- 1 Whitney Way, Sheridan, WY 82801
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Northern Wyoming Community College District
The data from the Northern Wyoming Community College District reveals a striking trend: a complete absence of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degree graduates across various programs for the year 2023. This is particularly noteworthy for a community college, where such programs typically serve as critical pathways for students looking to advance their education.
In stark contrast, the number of associate degree graduates is significant, with 68 graduates in Health and Wellness, 53 in Registered Nursing, and 24 in Dental Hygiene. This indicates a strong emphasis on health-related fields, aligning with national trends where healthcare professions are in high demand due to an aging population and ongoing healthcare needs, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the absence of international students graduating in these programs raises questions about the college's ability to attract global talent, which is vital for fostering diversity and enriching the educational environment. In a globalized world, the presence of international students often enhances the learning experience for all students and prepares them for a diverse workforce.
In summary, while the graduation numbers for associate degrees are promising, the lack of graduates at higher degree levels suggests that Northern Wyoming Community College District may need to reassess its academic offerings and recruitment strategies to ensure it meets the evolving educational landscape and workforce demands.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | $53,166 | |
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $71,361 | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $75,028 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $44,222 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician. | $64,815 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | - | |
| Agricultural Business and Management, General. | - | |
| Animal Sciences, General. | - | |
| Plant Sciences, General. | - | |
| Range Science and Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. | $50,921-$55,330 | |
| Welding Technology/Welder. | $50,921-$55,330 | |
| Precision Production, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - | |
| Information Science/Studies. | - | |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Building Construction Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - | |
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - | |
| Physical Fitness Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Surveying Technology/Surveying. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
3,534 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 65.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 928
- First-year undergraduates 427
- Transfers and others 2,179
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,534)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Northern Wyoming Community College District in 2023
The data from Northern Wyoming Community College District reveals significant insights into the composition of its student body for the year 2023. A total of 534 new undergraduate students were enrolled, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 48.3% male and 51.7% female. This is a positive indication of gender diversity among new entrants, which is vital for fostering an inclusive educational environment.
Among the continuing undergraduate students, there are 989 individuals. However, this group exhibits a more pronounced gender disparity, with only 38% of these students being male and a substantial 62% being female. Such a shift raises questions about retention rates, particularly for male students, and may suggest the need for targeted support programs to enhance their academic experience.
The transfer student population is notably smaller, with 177 students, and similarly, the gender distribution shows a higher female representation at 66.7%. This trend might reflect broader societal shifts where women are increasingly pursuing higher education, yet it also underscores the importance of addressing the needs of male students to ensure their success in academia.
Overall, the total number of students across all categories is 1,896, with a critical mass of 51.1% male and 48.9% female. The predominance of white students is observed in the demographic breakdown, which raises considerations for diversity and inclusion initiatives within the institution. As community colleges play a pivotal role in providing access to education for diverse populations, Northern Wyoming Community College District must continue to evaluate and adapt its strategies to support a balanced and representative student body.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Northern Wyoming Community College District
The age demographic data from Northern Wyoming Community College District reveals interesting insights into the student population. It is notable that the majority of students fall within the under 18 and 18-19 age brackets, accounting for approximately 48.5% of the total enrollment. This trend aligns with the broader national data indicating that community colleges often attract a younger audience, particularly recent high school graduates.
The data highlights a significant drop in enrollment as students progress into older age categories. For instance, only 10.9% of students are aged 25 and older. This decline raises questions about the factors influencing older students' participation in higher education. Financial constraints, work commitments, and family responsibilities are common barriers faced by non-traditional students.
Moreover, the absence of graduate male and female students suggests a potential gap in advanced degree programs within the college's offerings. This could be an area for institutional growth, as expanding graduate programs might attract a more diverse age range and encourage lifelong learning.
Interestingly, the gender distribution appears balanced among younger students, with female students slightly outnumbering male students in almost all categories, particularly in the under 18 and 18-19 groups. This trend reflects a national increase in female enrollment in higher education, which has seen women surpass men in college attendance.
Overall, the age composition of students at Northern Wyoming Community College District mirrors trends seen across the country, highlighting the importance of addressing barriers that may restrict older students from pursuing higher education while continuing to support the influx of younger learners.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
29 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Northern Wyoming Community College District
The data on international student enrollment at Northern Wyoming Community College District reveals significant fluctuations over the years. In the early years of the data set, particularly from 2004 to 2010, the number of international undergraduate students was quite low, peaking at just 34 students in 2016. The percentage of international students among the total undergraduate population showed an upward trend, reaching a high of 0.79% in 2016. However, this increase was not sustained in subsequent years.
The decline in the international student population after 2016 is particularly striking. By 2023, the number of international undergraduates fell to just 5 students, constituting a mere 0.14% of the total undergraduate enrollment. This dramatic decrease could be attributed to several factors, including changing immigration policies, a global pandemic, and the increasing competition from other institutions offering more attractive programs to international students.
The data highlights a concerning trend for Northern Wyoming Community College District, as a diverse student body often enhances the educational experience for all students. The decline in international enrollment could pose challenges in fostering global perspectives within the campus community. As institutions seek to recover post-pandemic, it will be crucial for Northern Wyoming Community College District to reassess its strategies for attracting international students, ensuring that it remains competitive and continues to benefit from a diverse academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$20,890
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $11,130
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,830
- Room and board
- $9,760
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 60% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 58%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$57.1M
Expenses$46.5M
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 Other
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 28 | 23 |
| Rodeo | 17 | 14 |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 31 | 19 |
| Rodeo | 30 | 16 |
| Basketball | 12 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Rodeo | 26 | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Northern Wyoming Community College District:
-
University of Wyoming - Ranked 216 in 2024 US News, it is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Colorado State University-Fort Collins - With a rank of 151, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Colorado Boulder - A highly regarded comprehensive university, ranked 105, it offers numerous academic programs in various fields.
-
Colorado School of Mines - Ranked 76, this comprehensive university specializes in engineering and applied sciences, particularly in energy and earth resources.
-
University of Utah - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university is known for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.
-
Brigham Young University - This comprehensive university ranks 115 and is recognized for its strong academic programs and commitment to values-based education.
-
Gonzaga University - Ranked 93, Gonzaga is a comprehensive university known for its liberal arts education and strong emphasis on community service.
Each of these institutions provides unique educational opportunities and contributes to the academic landscape of the region.
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 Northern Wyoming Community College District
The crime data from Northern Wyoming Community College District provides a concerning overview of campus safety over the years. Notably, the overall crime rate per 1,000 students has shown significant fluctuations. In 2014, the rate peaked at 13.07, marking a period of heightened crime concerns, which was followed by a decline in subsequent years. However, 2018 saw a troubling spike, with the rate escalating to 17.66. This indicates that campus safety issues can be sporadic and are influenced by various factors, including campus policies, student behavior, and external societal influences.
A closer look at specific crime categories reveals that drug arrests and alcohol-related incidents are significant contributors to the overall crime rates. For instance, the increase in drug arrests in 2018 likely correlates with broader national trends in substance use among college students, which have been widely reported in the media. The recent years, particularly 2021, also show a notable rate of 18.28, suggesting that the campus may have faced specific challenges that year.
Interestingly, data from 2022 and 2023 demonstrate a return to lower crime rates, with averages of 5.56 and 5.84 respectively. This decline could reflect improved safety measures, increased awareness, or changes in student lifestyle during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the overall crime rates have shown a downward trend recently, the college must remain vigilant in addressing the underlying issues to ensure a safe environment for all students. Continuous monitoring and community engagement will be crucial in preventing future spikes in crime rates. For those interested in understanding how these rates are calculated, more information is available at this link.
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.