Community College Rankings

The 2010 ranking of America's best community colleges by Washington Monthly showcased several institutions that exemplify excellence in community college education. These rankings were compiled based on key criteria such as student success rates, graduation rates, academic challenge, active learning, student-faculty interaction, and support for learners.

Community colleges play an important role in the higher education ecosystem, offering a more affordable pathway to both higher education and vocational training. This list recognized institutions that not only provide quality education but also actively contribute to the community and support student achievement. Among those recognized, Saint Paul College, Hesston College, and Carolinas College of Health Sciences earned the top spots, and many other institutions, such as Barton Community College, Northampton Community College, and Tacoma Community College, also made a significant impact in the rankings.

Saint Paul College, ranked first, has earned national recognition for its focus on providing high-quality education and community service. Located in Minnesota, Saint Paul College is a public institution that prides itself on offering accessible and affordable programs for students from diverse backgrounds. The college places a strong emphasis on student success, focusing on both academic achievements and career readiness. Saint Paul College offers a wide range of programs, including associate degrees, certificate programs, and workforce development opportunities that prepare students for various careers, from healthcare and business to technical fields.

One of the key factors contributing to Saint Paul College's high ranking is its commitment to the success of its students. The college’s academic programs are designed to support students at every level, from first-year students to those seeking to complete their degrees or transition to four-year institutions. The faculty at Saint Paul College is deeply invested in student outcomes, offering support through mentorship, tutoring, and advising. Moreover, Saint Paul College has developed strong partnerships with local businesses and industries, ensuring that students have access to relevant internships, apprenticeships, and job opportunities. This community-oriented approach helps students gain real-world experience while they pursue their academic goals. Additionally, Saint Paul College’s commitment to serving nontraditional students, such as adult learners, veterans, and working professionals, further demonstrates its dedication to making higher education accessible to a broad range of individuals.

Ranked second, Hesston College is another institution that has received praise for its exceptional service to both its students and the local community. Hesston College is a two-year liberal arts college in Hesston, Kansas, and it stands out for its comprehensive approach to student success. As a private institution, Hesston College emphasizes a personalized and holistic educational experience, offering students the opportunity to engage deeply with their academic studies while also participating in community service, internships, and leadership development. The college is committed to creating an environment where students are encouraged to think critically, engage in active learning, and develop the skills necessary for success in the workforce or in further education.

Hesston College’s ranking in the top two for community college service is based on its dedication to academic rigor, active learning, and student success. The college is known for its strong relationships between students and faculty, with small class sizes and a focus on individualized attention. These factors help students to not only succeed academically but also build a strong sense of community within the college. Hesston College’s reputation for nurturing student growth, both personally and academically, has earned it recognition for its overall impact on its students and the surrounding community. Its high graduation rates and student success outcomes reflect the college’s ability to foster an environment where students can thrive.

Carolinas College of Health Sciences, ranked third on the list, stands out for its focus on healthcare education. As an institution offering specialized programs in the health sciences, Carolinas College is committed to providing students with the training and skills necessary to succeed in healthcare careers. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, the college offers a range of healthcare programs, including nursing, radiologic technology, and clinical laboratory science. The school is dedicated to producing highly skilled healthcare professionals who are prepared to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving healthcare industry.

Carolinas College of Health Sciences is renowned for its strong partnerships with healthcare providers, offering students opportunities for clinical rotations, internships, and hands-on learning experiences. These partnerships provide students with valuable exposure to real-world healthcare settings, where they can apply their knowledge and develop their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals. The college’s high graduation rates, student engagement, and focus on career readiness make it a leader in healthcare education, and its ranking as one of the top community colleges in the country reflects its commitment to student success and excellence in academic programming.

Beyond the top three institutions, several other community colleges have also earned recognition for their contributions to student success. Northampton Community College, ranked 42nd, is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and has consistently been recognized for its high academic standards and strong student outcomes. The college offers a variety of academic programs, including liberal arts, business, healthcare, and technical fields. Northampton Community College places a strong emphasis on student engagement and support services, offering tutoring, counseling, and career development resources to ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed.

Barton Community College, ranked 50th, stands out for its high graduation rates and strong transfer outcomes. Located in Great Bend, Kansas, Barton Community College has a long track record of preparing students for further academic success, with many of its graduates going on to complete four-year degrees. The college offers a range of associate degree programs and workforce development opportunities, and it has been recognized for its ability to support students both academically and professionally. Barton’s 70% graduation rate places it in the top 5 among the colleges that made the top 50 list, which speaks to its ability to help students reach their academic goals and succeed in their chosen careers.

Another standout institution is Tacoma Community College (TCC), which was ranked 17th on the list and number one in Washington State. TCC has earned praise for its high graduation rates, student engagement, and quality of education. The college offers a broad range of programs, from liberal arts to technical and vocational studies, and places a strong emphasis on student success. With a graduation rate of 63%, TCC ranks in the top six of the community colleges that made the top 50, and its commitment to providing accessible education and robust support services ensures that students are prepared for both academic and professional success.

The rankings from Washington Monthly demonstrate the importance of community colleges in providing affordable and high-quality education to a diverse range of students. These institutions, from Saint Paul College to Hesston College, Carolinas College of Health Sciences, and beyond, are redefining what it means to offer accessible education. They do this by not only delivering rigorous academic programs but also fostering environments where students are supported, mentored, and prepared for their futures. The rankings are a recognition of the hard work these institutions have put into building strong academic programs and providing students with the resources they need to succeed. Whether through small class sizes, individualized support, or community partnerships, the colleges on this list are setting a standard for excellence in higher education.

As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, community colleges like those on this list will likely remain at the forefront of accessible education, offering opportunities for students from all walks of life to achieve their academic and professional goals. These institutions provide the necessary skills, resources, and support for students to thrive both in their academic pursuits and in their future careers, ensuring that they are well-equipped for success in a rapidly changing world. The continued success and recognition of community colleges in the Washington Monthly rankings reflect the growing importance of these institutions in providing high-quality, affordable education that helps students succeed in the real world.