Highland Community College

Based on the provided data, Highland Community College shows a strong ROI score of 92, indicating a favorable return on investment relative to its cost and student debt. However, the median earnings of $37,928 ten years after entry should be considered in the context of your specific career goals and earning potential.

As a small institution with 931 students, Highland Community College likely offers a more intimate learning environment. Further research into specific student support services, campus life, and extracurricular activities would provide a clearer picture of the student experience.

Highland Community College has an Affordability Score of 90, suggesting it is a financially accessible option, especially for in-state students with tuition at $4,936. The median debt at graduation is also relatively low at $8,029.

The median earnings for graduates ten years after entry are $37,928. This figure should be compared against the cost of attendance and your expected career path to determine if it aligns with your financial expectations.

The admission rate for Highland Community College is not provided in the data, making it impossible to assess its selectivity. This information would be crucial for understanding the academic profile of the student body.

Highland Community College (HCC) is an open-enrollment institution, meaning it has a very high acceptance rate, effectively admitting nearly all applicants who meet basic requirements. While an official 'acceptance rate' percentage isn't typically published for open-enrollment community colleges, the barrier to entry is minimal. Prospective students generally need to have a high school diploma or GED, or be at least 18 years old and able to benefit from the instruction. Placement testing in math, reading, and writing is usually required to determine appropriate course placement, but these are not admission hurdles. The focus is on providing educational opportunities to the local community. Therefore, getting into HCC is generally straightforward, with the primary 'challenge' being the completion of the application and any necessary placement assessments to ensure students are placed in courses where they can succeed. It's designed to be accessible to a wide range of students, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and those seeking career changes.

Yes, Highland Community College (HCC) is generally worth the money, especially for students prioritizing affordability and regional career placement. The in-state tuition is a remarkably low $4,936 annually, and the median student debt is only $8,029. This is significantly lower than the average debt incurred at four-year institutions. With a median 10-year earning potential of $37,928, the debt can be paid off relatively quickly, likely within one to two years. The high ROI score of 92 further validates its financial efficiency. HCC excels in providing practical, skills-based education that leads to stable employment in local industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. While the median earnings may not place graduates in high-paying executive roles immediately, they represent a solid return on a minimal investment, offering a secure financial future within the Northwestern Illinois region. For students aiming for vocational careers or foundational knowledge before transferring, HCC offers substantial value.

Highland Community College (HCC) excels in programs that align with regional workforce needs. Based on typical community college strengths and the economic landscape of Northwestern Illinois, the most advantageous majors often include: **Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades** (e.g., Welding Technology, Industrial Maintenance Technology, Machining), preparing students for roles in local factories and workshops. **Nursing and Allied Health** (e.g., Associate Degree in Nursing, Medical Assistant) are strong contenders, given the consistent demand for healthcare professionals in the region, with local employers like OSF HealthCare and FHN Memorial Hospital. **Business Administration** and **Agriculture** programs also offer solid pathways, equipping students with foundational knowledge for roles in local businesses, farms, and agricultural support services. For students considering transfer, programs like General Studies or Associate in Arts/Science provide a broad foundation. The 'best' major depends on individual career aspirations, but those in technical fields and healthcare typically offer the most direct and in-demand employment opportunities post-graduation within HCC's service area.

Student life at Highland Community College (HCC) is characteristic of a smaller community college, focusing on academic support and a close-knit campus environment rather than extensive social programming. With an enrollment of around 931 students, the campus offers a more intimate setting where students can easily connect with peers and faculty. While HCC may not have the vast array of clubs and organizations found at larger universities, it provides opportunities for engagement through student government, academic clubs related to specific programs (like health sciences or business), and intercollegiate athletics (NJCAA Division III sports like basketball and baseball). The campus culture emphasizes practical learning and community involvement. Events like guest speaker series, cultural activities, and campus-wide service projects contribute to the student experience. For students seeking a vibrant, large-scale social scene, HCC might be less dynamic, but for those who appreciate a focused, supportive atmosphere conducive to academic success and local networking, the student life experience can be very rewarding.

Highland Community College (HCC) is committed to making education accessible, offering a range of financial aid options to eligible students. The primary source of aid is the federal and state grant system, including the Pell Grant for low-income students and various Illinois state grants. HCC also participates in federal student loan programs, though the median debt of $8,029 suggests many students utilize grants or work while studying. Institutional aid includes scholarships funded by the Highland Community College Foundation, which are often merit-based or targeted towards specific programs or student demographics. Work-study programs are also available, providing part-time employment opportunities on campus for students with financial need. To determine eligibility, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). HCC's financial aid office actively assists students in navigating the application process, understanding award letters, and exploring all available resources to minimize out-of-pocket costs. Given the low tuition, financial aid can significantly reduce or even cover the cost of attendance for many students.

After graduating from Highland Community College (HCC), the expected salary will vary significantly based on the chosen major and the specific job secured. The college reports a median earning of $37,928 after 10 years. Graduates from vocational and technical programs, such as Welding Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or Machining, can expect starting salaries typically ranging from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, with potential for growth as skills and experience increase. Those entering the healthcare field, particularly in roles like Registered Nurse (ADN program) or Medical Assistant, might see starting salaries in the range of $40,000 to $55,000, depending on the employer and specific responsibilities. Business administration graduates might start in administrative or support roles with salaries around $30,000 to $40,000. It's important to note that these figures are median earnings over a decade, implying that initial salaries might be lower but increase with career progression. The strong regional focus means salaries are often aligned with the cost of living and job market demands in Northwestern Illinois, rather than higher-paying, competitive markets in major cities.

Highland Community College (HCC) does not offer traditional on-campus dormitories or student housing. As a primarily commuter college serving the Freeport, IL area, the vast majority of its students live off-campus in their own homes or apartments within the surrounding community. This is a common characteristic of many community colleges that focus on accessibility and affordability for local residents. Therefore, there are no 'dorms' to describe in terms of facilities, room types, or campus living experiences. Students seeking housing would need to find private rentals in Freeport or nearby towns. This lack of on-campus housing contributes to the lower overall cost of attendance compared to residential universities but also means that the traditional college living experience, including hall mates and resident advisors, is not part of the HCC student life.

Highland Community College (HCC) is not primarily designed as a research institution. As a community college, its core mission revolves around providing accessible, career-focused education and foundational academic transfer programs. Research opportunities for students at HCC are therefore limited and typically not a central feature of the academic experience. While individual faculty members might engage in scholarly activities, they are generally focused on teaching rather than extensive research supervision. Students interested in research typically pursue it at four-year universities. HCC can serve as an excellent stepping stone, providing the foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for students who intend to transfer to a university where they can then engage in undergraduate research. Some science or social science courses might involve small-scale projects or data analysis, but these are generally classroom-based assignments rather than independent research endeavors. For students prioritizing significant research involvement during their undergraduate years, HCC may not be the ideal choice.

Highland Community College (HCC) compares favorably to other regional community colleges in Illinois and surrounding states, particularly in terms of affordability and vocational program strength. Its peers would include institutions like Sauk Valley Community College, Black Hawk College, and Kishwaukee College. HCC stands out with its notably low median debt ($8,029) and competitive in-state tuition ($4,936), often making it one of the most financially accessible options. Its strengths lie in practical, hands-on training for manufacturing, healthcare, and agricultural sectors, directly serving the economic needs of Northwestern Illinois. Compared to its peers, HCC offers a similar breadth of associate degrees and certificates, with a comparable graduation rate (45.4%). However, like many community colleges, it may offer fewer specialized transfer pathways or advanced academic programs than larger institutions. Its primary advantage over peers is its strong ROI and direct pipeline to local employment, making it an excellent choice for students committed to staying within the region. Disadvantages might include less extensive campus life or fewer articulation agreements with a wide range of four-year universities compared to some larger or more urban-serving community colleges.

Employers in the Northwestern Illinois region generally hold a positive view of graduates from Highland Community College (HCC), particularly those who have completed specific vocational or technical programs. HCC's strong ties to local industries mean that employers often recognize the practical skills and relevant training its graduates receive. Companies that actively recruit from HCC, such as those in manufacturing (e.g., Honeywell, Kraft Heinz) and healthcare (e.g., OSF HealthCare, FHN Memorial Hospital), value the job-ready nature of HCC alumni. The college's focus on workforce development ensures that its curriculum is often aligned with current industry demands. For graduates entering the workforce directly, employers appreciate their preparedness and understanding of regional economic needs. For those transferring to four-year institutions, HCC provides a solid academic foundation. While HCC may not have the widespread name recognition of a large state university, its reputation within its service area is strong, signifying a reliable source of skilled and dependable employees for local businesses and organizations.