Crafton Hills College

Based on its high Affordability Score (90) and strong ROI Score (795), Crafton Hills College appears to be a financially sound choice for in-state students, especially considering the low in-state tuition of $1,188.

The reported graduation rate at Crafton Hills College is 31.3%.

Median earnings 10 years after entry are $42,553. While specific debt data is unavailable, the college's strong affordability and ROI scores suggest a positive financial outcome for many graduates, particularly in-state students.

Crafton Hills College has a diverse student body, with the largest demographic group being Hispanic students at 55.5%, followed by White students at 27.6%.

Given the significantly higher out-of-state tuition of $14,556 compared to the in-state rate, and the lack of specific debt information, out-of-state students should carefully evaluate the potential return on investment.

Crafton Hills College, like most California Community Colleges, has an open-enrollment policy, meaning there is no selective "acceptance rate" in the traditional sense. Admission is generally open to all high school graduates or individuals who have passed the California High School Proficiency Examination, or are at least 18 years old and can benefit from the instruction offered. The primary "barrier" to entry is meeting the basic requirements: being a California resident (for in-state tuition), providing proof of high school completion or equivalent, and completing the online application. There are no entrance exams or GPA requirements for general admission. However, placement into specific courses, particularly in English and Math, is determined by recent standardized test scores (like the Smarter Balanced Assessment) or by taking the college's own placement assessments. Students who do not meet the prerequisites for college-level courses will be placed into developmental or remedial classes. The focus is on accessibility and providing educational opportunities to the local community, rather than on selective admission.

Crafton Hills College (CHC) is unequivocally worth the money, especially for California residents. The in-state tuition is remarkably low at $1,188 per year, making it one of the most affordable educational investments available. The median earnings for alumni after 10 years stand at $42,553. This means that even with a modest salary, the initial cost of tuition can be paid back within a fraction of the first year of employment. For students pursuing an associate's degree and entering the workforce directly, the financial return is swift. Furthermore, for those using CHC as a transfer institution to a California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) campus, the savings are substantial compared to completing all four years at a university. The ROI score of 795 further validates its strong financial value. While specific median debt figures are not provided, the low cost suggests that debt accumulation is likely manageable for most students. CHC offers a high-value educational foundation without the burden of significant financial strain.

The "best" majors at Crafton Hills College depend heavily on a student's career aspirations and whether they intend to transfer or enter the workforce directly. For direct entry into the job market, programs in **Health Sciences**, such as Registered Nursing (ADN program) and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)/Paramedic, are highly recommended. These fields have consistent demand in the Inland Empire, with local hospitals like Loma Linda University Health and Kaiser Permanente actively seeking qualified professionals. The **Business Administration** program offers a solid foundation for roles in accounting, management, and marketing, preparing students for positions in local businesses and industries. For students planning to transfer, majors like **Psychology**, **Sociology**, **English**, and **Biology** are excellent choices, as these are common pathways to bachelor's degrees at UC Riverside and Cal State San Bernardino, where graduates often pursue careers in counseling, research, education, and healthcare. The **Criminal Justice** program also prepares students for transfer and potential careers in law enforcement within the region.

Student life at Crafton Hills College is centered around its community college mission, offering a more focused and less sprawling experience than a large university. The campus culture emphasizes academic achievement, career preparation, and community engagement. While it may not have the extensive residential life or large-scale social events of a four-year institution, CHC provides opportunities for involvement through its Associated Students of Crafton Hills College (ASCHC), various clubs (e.g., STEM Club, Puente Club), and intercollegiate athletics (basketball, baseball, softball). The campus is located in a suburban setting, offering a quieter environment conducive to studying. Students often commute to campus, leading to a dynamic mix of traditional students and working adults. The college hosts events like cultural celebrations, guest speaker series, and workshops designed to enhance the student experience and provide networking opportunities. The smaller size fosters a more intimate atmosphere where students can build relationships with faculty and peers, particularly within their chosen academic programs or student organizations.

Crafton Hills College offers a range of financial aid options to help students cover the costs of attendance. As a public community college, its primary goal is affordability. Financial aid primarily comes in the form of federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant and the Cal Grant, which do not need to be repaid. Eligibility for these grants is based on financial need, determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application. CHC also participates in the Federal Direct Loan Program, offering student loans that do require repayment, though these are typically a last resort for students. Additionally, the college offers institutional scholarships funded by the Crafton Hills College Foundation and local community partners, awarded based on academic merit, specific program enrollment, or financial need. Work-study programs are also available, providing part-time employment opportunities for students with demonstrated financial need. To access aid, students must complete the FAFSA or Dream Act application annually and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

The salary expectations after graduating from Crafton Hills College vary significantly based on the student's chosen field of study, whether they transfer to a four-year university, and their subsequent career path. The college reports a median earnings figure of $42,553 after 10 years for all alumni. For graduates entering the workforce directly with an associate's degree, entry-level positions in fields like administrative support, early childhood education, or healthcare support roles might start in the $30,000-$40,000 range annually. For those completing the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), starting salaries can range from $60,000 to $75,000 annually, especially within the competitive Inland Empire healthcare market. Graduates who transfer to a CSU or UC and complete a bachelor's degree can expect significantly higher starting salaries, often in the $50,000-$70,000 range, depending on the major and industry. For example, STEM or business graduates from four-year institutions often command higher starting pay. The median earnings figure suggests that over time, and with experience or further education, alumni see substantial career growth.

Crafton Hills College does not offer on-campus housing or dormitories. As a primarily commuter institution, students typically live in the surrounding communities of Yucaipa, Redlands, San Bernardino, and other nearby cities. This means that prospective students should plan for off-campus living arrangements, such as renting apartments, sharing houses with roommates, or living with family. The college's location in Yucaipa offers a more suburban and residential environment, and students commuting from the area often benefit from a lower cost of living compared to more urbanized parts of Southern California. While there are no dorms, the college provides resources through its student services to help students navigate off-campus housing options and connect with resources available in the local community. Students should factor in the costs and logistics of commuting or securing off-campus housing when considering enrollment at Crafton Hills College.

Crafton Hills College is primarily an undergraduate transfer institution and a vocational training center, rather than a research-intensive university. Therefore, opportunities for extensive, independent undergraduate research are limited compared to four-year universities with dedicated graduate programs and research facilities. However, CHC does foster an academic environment that encourages inquiry and critical thinking. Students in science programs, such as Biology or Chemistry, may have opportunities to participate in faculty-supervised projects or lab work that introduces them to research methodologies. The college also participates in programs like the Puente Project, which supports students in their academic journey and encourages them to pursue higher education, often involving research-oriented coursework. For students serious about research, the most common pathway is to leverage CHC's strong transfer agreements with universities like UC Riverside, which has robust research opportunities, and then engage in research once admitted to the university. CHC provides the foundational knowledge and transfer pathways to access more significant research endeavors elsewhere.

Crafton Hills College (CHC) is a community college serving the Inland Empire region of Southern California. Its closest peers are other public community colleges in the vicinity, such as San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC), Riverside City College (RCC), and Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC). Compared to SBVC and RCC, CHC is generally smaller in student population and potentially offers a more intimate learning environment. Its tuition is comparable to these institutions for in-state students, remaining highly affordable. CHC often excels in specific vocational programs tailored to local needs, potentially offering unique pathways in areas like healthcare support or public safety that align closely with regional employers. Its geographic location in Yucaipa offers a distinct quality of life and potentially lower living costs than areas closer to the urban centers of San Bernardino and Riverside. However, larger institutions like SBVC or RCC might offer a broader range of academic programs, more extensive student services, and a larger athletic presence. All these colleges share the common goal of providing accessible education and facilitating transfer to four-year universities.

Employers in the Inland Empire generally view degrees and certificates from Crafton Hills College (CHC) favorably, particularly for roles requiring foundational knowledge and practical skills. As a community college, CHC is recognized for preparing students for entry-level positions and for transfer to four-year institutions. Employers value the practical training provided in vocational programs, such as those in healthcare, emergency services, and skilled trades, as graduates are often job-ready. For transfer students, the quality of education received at CHC is seen as a strong preparation for success at universities like UC Riverside or Cal State San Bernardino. The college's focus on developing essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving is also appreciated. While a degree from CHC might not carry the same brand recognition as a degree from a top-tier university, its graduates are seen as reliable, well-trained, and often possess a strong work ethic, making them valuable assets to regional employers who understand the value and accessibility of the community college system.