Lewis-Clark State College

Based on the provided data, the ROI score of 51 suggests a near-average return. While in-state tuition is affordable, median earnings are moderate, and the graduation rate is below average. A deeper dive into specific program outcomes is recommended.

The graduation rate at Lewis-Clark State College is 42.6%.

In-state tuition is $7,610, and out-of-state is $22,028. Median earnings 10 years after entry are $46,001 with $18,500 in median debt, indicating a moderate financial outcome.

Key strengths include its affordable in-state tuition and a medium-sized student body.

A primary concern is the low graduation rate of 42.6%, which may indicate challenges for students in completing their degrees.

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) has a relatively high acceptance rate of 87.7%, indicating that it is not highly selective. This suggests that most applicants who meet the basic admission requirements are likely to be accepted. The college aims to provide accessible education to a broad range of students. To be considered for admission, prospective students typically need a high school diploma or GED. While specific GPA or standardized test score cutoffs are not heavily emphasized due to the open admission policy, maintaining a solid academic record in high school is always beneficial. For students who may not meet standard criteria, LCSC often provides pathways through alternative admission processes or developmental courses. The focus is less on stringent academic hurdles and more on providing an opportunity for students to succeed once enrolled. Applicants should ensure all required documentation, such as transcripts and any necessary placement test results, are submitted by the deadlines to facilitate a smooth admission process. The high acceptance rate makes LCSC a viable option for many students seeking a college education in the region.

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) offers a moderate return on investment, particularly for in-state students. With an in-state tuition of $7,610 and median 10-year earnings of $46,001, the financial picture is reasonable. The median debt of $18,500 is also relatively low. If a student graduates with this median debt, it could potentially be paid off within 3-4 years, depending on their starting salary and repayment plan. The ROI score of 51 reflects this moderate financial outcome. For Idaho residents, LCSC provides an accessible pathway to a degree with decent regional employment prospects, especially in fields like nursing and education. However, the out-of-state tuition of $22,028 significantly increases the cost, making the value proposition less compelling unless specific program strengths are a major draw. Compared to national averages for college graduate earnings, LCSC's median earnings are somewhat lower, suggesting that while it's a practical choice, it may not lead to the highest earning potentials. Ultimately, LCSC is likely worth the money for in-state students prioritizing affordability and regional career opportunities, but out-of-state students should carefully weigh the costs against potential earnings and alternative options.

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) excels in programs that meet strong regional demands, making its nursing and education majors particularly noteworthy. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is highly regarded and prepares graduates for in-demand healthcare roles within Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. Given the consistent need for healthcare professionals, LCSC's nursing graduates often find strong employment opportunities shortly after graduation. Similarly, the education programs, including elementary and secondary education, are well-established and feed directly into local school districts. Graduates from these programs are sought after by employers within the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley and surrounding areas. Beyond these core strengths, LCSC also offers solid programs in business administration, with concentrations that can lead to roles in management and finance, and technology, including degrees in information technology and cybersecurity, which are increasingly relevant. For students interested in hands-on learning and direct career application, majors like radiologic sciences and dental hygiene also offer excellent prospects within the healthcare sector. The 'best' majors often align with areas where LCSC has strong faculty, established clinical or internship partnerships, and clear local or regional job market needs.

Student life at Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) is characterized by its close-knit community feel, set against the backdrop of Lewiston's natural beauty. As a smaller public institution, LCSC fosters a more intimate campus environment where students can easily connect with peers and faculty. The college offers a range of student organizations, from academic clubs and cultural groups to intramural sports and student government, providing ample opportunities for involvement and leadership. Campus events, such as guest lectures, cultural performances, and social gatherings, are common throughout the academic year. LCSC also has a strong athletic presence, with various NCAA Division I sports teams that generate school spirit and provide entertainment. For students interested in outdoor activities, the proximity to the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, as well as surrounding mountains, offers abundant opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, and skiing. While Lewiston is a smaller city, it provides a safe and friendly atmosphere, with local businesses and community events often engaging with the student body. The overall student experience at LCSC emphasizes community, practical engagement, and access to the outdoors, offering a balanced college life.

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) is committed to making education accessible and offers a variety of financial aid options to help students manage costs. A significant portion of LCSC students receive some form of financial assistance. Aid is primarily distributed through federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, and federal student loans. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary application for most federal and state aid, including Pell Grants for students with demonstrated financial need. LCSC also offers its own institutional scholarships, which are often merit-based or program-specific, awarded through applications managed by the college's scholarship office. Federal Work-Study programs are available, providing part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need. For the 2022-2023 academic year, approximately 85% of full-time undergraduate students received financial aid. The average financial aid package awarded was around $8,000-$9,000, encompassing grants, scholarships, and loans. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA early and explore the LCSC scholarship portal for additional funding opportunities. The college's financial aid office provides resources and counseling to help students navigate the application process and understand their aid options.

Graduates from Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) can expect a median salary in the range of $40,000 to $50,000 annually, with the reported 10-year median earnings standing at $46,001. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, individual performance, and geographic location of employment. For instance, graduates from the highly regarded nursing program often command higher starting salaries, potentially ranging from $60,000 to $70,000 or more, especially in competitive healthcare markets. Similarly, those entering fields like business administration or information technology might see starting salaries in the $45,000 to $55,000 range, depending on the specific role and employer. Graduates in education may start in the $40,000 to $50,000 range, often with opportunities for salary increases as they gain experience and advanced degrees. It's important to note that these figures represent median earnings over a decade, implying that initial salaries might be lower but grow over time. Employment in higher cost-of-living areas like Boise or Spokane might offer slightly higher nominal salaries compared to remaining in Lewiston, though the purchasing power needs to be considered. LCSC's career services can provide more specific data based on recent graduate outcomes by major.

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) offers on-campus housing primarily through its residence halls, providing a convenient and community-oriented living experience for students. The main housing complex is located centrally on campus, offering easy access to academic buildings, the library, and student services. LCSC typically offers a mix of traditional dormitory-style rooms, often featuring double occupancy with shared common bathrooms on each floor, and some suite-style options. Rooms are generally furnished with basic necessities like a bed, desk, and closet space for each student. Residence halls are supervised by Resident Advisors (RAs) who help foster a positive living environment, organize community-building activities, and provide support to residents. Common areas within the halls usually include lounges with seating, study spaces, and sometimes kitchen facilities. Laundry facilities are available on-site. While LCSC is a smaller institution, its on-campus housing aims to provide a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment for students, particularly freshmen, who are often encouraged or required to live on campus. Students seeking off-campus housing options can find apartments and houses in the surrounding Lewiston community, which may offer more independence and varied living arrangements.

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC), as a primarily undergraduate institution, offers research opportunities that are more focused on student involvement and faculty-mentored projects rather than large-scale, independent graduate research. While LCSC may not have the extensive research infrastructure of a major R1 university, it provides valuable hands-on research experiences, particularly within its science, nursing, and education programs. Faculty members often engage students in their research endeavors, allowing undergraduates to participate in data collection, analysis, and even co-authoring publications or presenting at conferences. For example, students in the sciences might assist professors with lab experiments or field studies. The nursing program integrates research through evidence-based practice projects, encouraging students to critically evaluate and apply research findings. LCSC also hosts an annual Student Research Symposium where students can showcase their work. While the research output might be smaller in scale, the emphasis is on providing undergraduate students with the skills and experience necessary for future academic or professional pursuits. Students seeking intensive, independent research opportunities might find more options at larger universities, but LCSC offers a solid foundation for those eager to engage in mentored research.

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) is often compared to other regional public universities and colleges in the Pacific Northwest that offer similar program strengths and serve a comparable student population. Realistic peers include institutions like the University of Idaho (though larger and more research-focused), Boise State University (a larger urban university), Eastern Washington University (similar regional focus), and potentially Montana State University (larger, but with some similar program offerings). LCSC's key advantages over these peers often lie in its smaller size, leading to more personalized attention and a stronger sense of community. Its location in Lewiston offers a significantly lower cost of living than Boise or Spokane, making it a more financially accessible option for many. Furthermore, LCSC has a deep-rooted connection to serving the specific workforce needs of North Central Idaho, particularly in nursing and education, which can translate into strong local job placement. However, LCSC faces disadvantages in terms of national brand recognition and the breadth of specialized programs compared to larger universities like the University of Idaho or Boise State. The sheer scale of resources, research opportunities, and alumni networks at these larger institutions often surpasses what LCSC can offer. Additionally, the job market directly accessible from Lewiston is more limited than from larger metropolitan areas.

Employers in the Pacific Northwest, particularly within Idaho and surrounding regions, generally hold a positive view of graduates from Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC), especially in fields where the college has a strong reputation. LCSC's nursing program, for instance, is well-respected, and healthcare employers in the region frequently hire LCSC graduates, valuing their practical training and readiness for clinical practice. Similarly, local school districts actively recruit from LCSC's education programs, recognizing the quality of teacher preparation. For business and technical fields, employer perception is often tied to the individual graduate's skills, internships, and performance, rather than solely the institution's brand name. LCSC's emphasis on hands-on learning and community engagement can translate into graduates who are seen as practical, reliable, and community-minded. While LCSC may not carry the same national brand recognition as larger flagship universities, its graduates are often seen as competent and well-prepared for roles within the regional economy. Employers who understand the strengths of LCSC's programs, particularly in healthcare and education, tend to view its degrees favorably. The college's career services also play a role in building employer relationships and ensuring graduates meet industry expectations.