Wayne Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$8,710
In-state $2,566
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
3,626
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
56.6%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 63.2%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wayne Community College (WCC), located in Goldsboro, North Carolina, is dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality education to its diverse student population. Established in 1967, WCC has a strong commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The college's mission is centered around empowering students through education and training that enhances their skills for both personal and professional growth. The college's motto, "Success Starts Here," reflects its focus on student achievement and success through a variety of academic programs.
WCC offers a wide array of programs, including associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates across various fields such as healthcare, business, information technology, and the arts. The college is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and a dedicated library that supports students in their academic pursuits. Additionally, WCC promotes a vibrant campus culture with various extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, and community events, which foster student engagement and collaboration. With a dedicated faculty who are experienced in their respective fields, students receive personalized attention and support, preparing them for successful careers and further education. Overall, Wayne Community College stands out as a vital educational institution in the region, contributing to the growth and development of its students and the community at large.
Analysis of Key Trends at Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College has exhibited notable trends in several key areas over the years. One of the most striking aspects is the graduation rate, particularly the on-time graduation rate. From 2013 to 2023, there has been a significant increase in the on-time graduation rate, climbing from approximately 8% in 2013 to about 25.8% in 2023. This positive trend suggests that the college has made strides in improving academic support and resources, which is vital for student success.
Additionally, the retention rate has also seen a remarkable improvement. The retention rate rose from around 36% in 2013 to approximately 79.9% in 2023. A higher retention rate indicates that students are more satisfied with their educational experience, leading to a greater likelihood of completing their studies. This could be attributed to enhanced student services, advising, and engagement initiatives implemented by the college.
In terms of enrollment, however, there has been a gradual decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 3,822 in 2013 to 2,732 in 2023. This trend may reflect broader demographic changes or shifts in educational preferences, especially in the wake of the pandemic, where many institutions faced enrollment challenges. Addressing this decline will be crucial for the college's future viability.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shown a consistent trend with a higher percentage of female students compared to male students, peaking at around 62% female in 2022. This demographic shift may warrant further examination, as understanding the implications of gender distribution can influence program offerings and support services.
Overall, while Wayne Community College is experiencing positive trends in graduation and retention rates, the decline in student enrollment presents a challenge that needs to be addressed strategically.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Raleigh, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Patty Pfeiffer (President)
- Phone
- 9197355151
- City
- Goldsboro, North Carolina
- Address
- 3000 Wayne Memorial Dr, Goldsboro, NC 27534
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Wayne Community College
The graduation data from Wayne Community College reveals several interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the health-related programs, particularly registered nursing, stand out with the highest number of associate degree graduates at 38. This reflects the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of recent global health crises, which have intensified the need for skilled nursing staff.
Moreover, the liberal arts and sciences programs collectively produced 215 graduates, indicating a strong interest and enrollment in these areas. This could be attributed to the versatility of a liberal arts education, which equips students with critical thinking and communication skills that are valuable in a variety of careers.
In contrast, technical programs, such as computer systems networking and automotive mechanics, reported significantly lower graduation numbers, with few graduates in each category. This discrepancy may suggest a need for improved marketing or support for these technical fields to attract more students, especially considering the increasing importance of technology and skilled trades in the modern economy.
Interestingly, the data shows no international students graduating in any bachelor's, master's, or doctorate programs, which might highlight a potential area for growth in attracting a more diverse student body. Overall, the data reflects both the strengths and opportunities within Wayne Community College's programs, particularly emphasizing the importance of health sciences and liberal arts while signaling the need for enhanced support and recruitment in technical fields.
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. | $27,954 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $61,739 | |
| Medical Office Management/Administration. | $31,901-$32,172 | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | |
| Pre-Nursing Studies. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $69,739 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $26,007-$31,643 | |
| Office Management and Supervision. | $26,007-$31,643 | |
| Accounting and Finance. | $40,915 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Electromechanical Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - | |
| Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - | |
| Animal/Livestock Husbandry and Production. | - | |
| Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture. | - | |
| Turf and Turfgrass Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence. | $32,362 | |
| Information Technology. | $32,362 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician. | $47,489 | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | $47,489 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - | |
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - | |
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist. | - |
Students
3,626 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 67.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,959
- First-year undergraduates 201
- Transfers and others 1,466
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,626)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Wayne Community College in 2023
The student population at Wayne Community College in 2023 showcases a diverse mix across various classifications. Among the first-time undergraduate students, there are 295 individuals, with a nearly even gender distribution—49.2% male and 50.8% female. This balance indicates an encouraging trend towards gender parity in higher education, particularly in the context of undergraduate enrollment.
In contrast, the continuing undergraduate students number significantly higher at 1,462, with a noticeable gender disparity; males comprise only 37.1% while females make up 62.9%. This could reflect broader societal trends where more females are pursuing higher education, potentially influenced by shifting cultural dynamics and increased support for women's education.
The transfer undergraduate students consist of 147 individuals, with males at 40.1% and females at 59.9%. This slight gender gap mirrors that of the first-time undergraduates.
However, the demographic data for graduate students remains incomplete as the total number and gender ratios were not provided. The overall trend indicates a growing female presence in higher education at Wayne Community College, which aligns with national statistics showing that women are increasingly outpacing men in college enrollment.
Examining the racial and ethnic breakdown of the student body could provide further insights into the community's diversity and inclusion efforts. As institutions continue to analyze and adapt to the changing demographics of their student populations, it is essential to understand these trends for future programming and support services.
Age Composition of Wayne Community College Students in 2023
The age distribution of students at Wayne Community College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. The data indicates a strong representation of younger students, particularly those under the age of 24. For instance, students under 18 years account for approximately 34.7% of the total student population, while those aged 18-19 make up around 36.5%. This trend suggests that the college attracts a significant number of recent high school graduates, which aligns with the general trend seen in community colleges across the United States where younger individuals seek affordable educational pathways.
As students progress into the 20-21 age range, the total numbers begin to slightly decline, but there remains a healthy representation of individuals in their early twenties. The demographic shifts further as we move into older age brackets, with only a small percentage of students aged 30 and above. For instance, those aged 30-34 constitute about 6.1% of the total population, while the 40-49 age group accounts for roughly 7.4%. Such statistics highlight the college’s primary role in catering to younger, often first-time college students.
Interestingly, there are no graduate students reported in the data, which may reflect the college's focus on undergraduate education rather than advanced degrees. These insights are crucial for understanding the needs and support systems required by the student population, particularly in tailoring programs and resources that resonate with younger learners. Overall, Wayne Community College continues to play a vital role in the educational landscape, serving predominantly younger students during a formative period in their academic and professional lives.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
18 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Wayne Community College
The data on international student enrollment at Wayne Community College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly for undergraduate students. Starting from a modest 0.12% of the undergraduate population in 2005, the enrollment of international students experienced a notable increase, peaking at 1.10% in 2016. This rise reflects a growing interest in studying at the institution, coinciding with broader trends in the United States where international education has become increasingly popular.
However, the subsequent years saw a decline in both the total number of undergraduate students and the proportion of international students. By 2021, the percentage dropped to 0.26%, before slightly rebounding to 0.62% in 2023. This pattern could be indicative of various external factors impacting international student mobility, such as changes in immigration policies, economic conditions, and the global pandemic's lasting effects on education.
Interestingly, the data for graduate students is largely absent, suggesting that Wayne Community College may not attract a significant number of graduate-level international students. This lack of data could indicate a focus on undergraduate programs or barriers that prevent graduate enrollment, which warrants further investigation.
Overall, the trends in international student enrollment at Wayne Community College highlight the complexities of global education dynamics and the need for institutions to adapt to changing circumstances that affect student recruitment and retention. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for Wayne Community College to strategize effectively to enhance its appeal to international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$21,060
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $8,710
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $2,566
- Room and board
- $12,350
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 2% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$63.6M
Expenses$38.5M
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 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
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 35.4 mi
U.S. News #202
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 48.7 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 69.3 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 71.3 mi
U.S. News #27
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 81.5 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Elon UniversityElon · 99.9 mi
U.S. News #100
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 112.5 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 114.2 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 140.1 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Wayne Community College:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. It is located in Durham, North Carolina, and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This prestigious institution is ranked 22nd nationally. Founded in 1789, it is one of the oldest universities in the United States and is known for its strong emphasis on research and public service.
-
North Carolina State University at Raleigh - With a ranking of 60, NC State is recognized for its engineering, business, and veterinary programs. It offers a dynamic campus experience in the heart of North Carolina's capital.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest is a private university known for its liberal arts education and commitment to the personal and professional development of its students.
-
East Carolina University - This university holds the 195th rank and is known for its diverse educational offerings and strong community engagement initiatives.
-
University of Richmond - Ranked 25th, the University of Richmond is a highly regarded liberal arts university known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are well-respected in their 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 Wayne Community College
The crime data from Wayne Community College over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in criminal incidents among students. The average crime rate per 1,000 students initially shows a gradual increase from 0.99 in 2013 to a peak of 3.04 in 2015. This spike could be indicative of an increase in reported crimes or a heightened awareness and reporting of offenses during that period.
Interestingly, the data suggests a notable decline in crime rates in subsequent years, with rates dropping to as low as 0.31 in 2019, a stark contrast to the earlier years. This decline might reflect enhanced safety measures, increased campus security, or effective community outreach programs aimed at reducing crime. However, the uptick in 2020, where the average crime rate rose to 1.70, could be attributed to the challenges posed by the pandemic, potentially leading to social isolation and related issues.
The most frequently reported crime appears to be gun-related arrests, which raises concerns about campus safety. It is vital for institutions to continually assess and enhance security protocols to safeguard students. Additionally, the data indicates that other offenses such as drug and alcohol-related incidents have fluctuated, suggesting the need for ongoing educational programs about substance use and its consequences.
Overall, while the data indicates a downward trend in crime rates, the fluctuations highlight the importance of persistent vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a safe educational environment. For further insights on how these crime rates are calculated, refer to this link: 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.