Highland Community College

Highland Community College is a Public institution in Highland, KS with approximately 1,279 students. Academics: Offers a variety of programs including associate degrees and certificates. Value: High affordability with in-state and out-of-state tuition at $4080, but median debt is relatively high at $8277. Outcomes: Graduation rate is 38.57%, and median earnings 10 years post-graduation are $41,291.

Highland Community College (HCC) provides a strong foundation for students looking to transfer to a four-year institution or enter the workforce directly. While specific departmental accolades are not widely publicized, HCC offers a robust selection of associate degree and certificate programs designed to meet the needs of the regional economy and prepare students for further academic pursuits. Key areas of strength often include career and technical education programs such as Agriculture, Business Administration, and various Health Sciences pathways, reflecting the needs of the surrounding rural Kansas landscape. Faculty at HCC are generally dedicated to teaching and student success, with a student-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention. While faculty salaries are not provided, the emphasis in community colleges is typically on accessible instructors who are available for extra help. Academic support is a cornerstone of the HCC experience, with resources like tutoring services, academic advising, and career counseling readily available to help students navigate their academic journey and plan for post-graduation. While formal research opportunities might be limited compared to larger universities, faculty often incorporate project-based learning and real-world applications into their coursework, providing students with valuable practical experience. Honors programs are not a prominent feature at HCC, aligning with the open-access mission of community colleges, but students seeking academic challenge can often pursue advanced coursework or independent study with faculty approval. Study abroad programs are also less common at this scale of institution, with the focus remaining on local and regional opportunities.

Navigating financial aid at Highland Community College (HCC) is designed to be straightforward, focusing on making education accessible. As a public community college, HCC primarily relies on federal and state aid, alongside institutional grants. The majority of students will likely receive some form of financial assistance. For the 2023-2024 academic year, in-state and out-of-state tuition is identical at $4,080 per year, simplifying cost calculations. The first step for any student is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form determines eligibility for federal Pell Grants, which are need-based and do not need to be repaid. For students with lower Expected Family Contributions (EFC), Pell Grants can cover a significant portion of tuition and fees. Kansas residents may also be eligible for state grants, which further reduce the cost of attendance. HCC also offers institutional scholarships, often based on academic merit, specific program enrollment, or community involvement. While specific dollar amounts for typical aid packages vary widely based on individual need and eligibility, students with demonstrated financial need could see their tuition and fees largely covered by a combination of Pell Grants and state aid. Work-study opportunities are also available, providing part-time employment on campus for students who qualify, allowing them to earn money to help cover living expenses. Given the open-access nature and affordability of HCC, merit aid might be less emphasized than need-based aid, but it's always worth checking the college's scholarship page for specific opportunities. Negotiating aid is generally not a common practice at community colleges like HCC, as aid packages are typically determined by standardized formulas based on FAFSA information and institutional policies.

Highland Community College (HCC) in Highland, KS, serves a primarily regional student body, and its alumni outcomes reflect this focus. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting on campus is limited, graduates often find employment within a 50-mile radius, particularly in sectors vital to the regional economy. Key industries where alumni cluster include agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and skilled trades. For instance, graduates in agricultural programs may find roles at local co-ops like Highland County Co-op or agricultural equipment dealers. Those in healthcare often secure positions at facilities such as Highland General Hospital or various clinics in the surrounding counties. Manufacturing roles might be found at regional plants, though specific large-scale recruiters are not prominently featured.

Information regarding graduate school placement rates is not readily available, suggesting that a significant portion of HCC graduates enter the workforce directly after obtaining their associate degrees or certificates. The college's career services likely focus on connecting students with local job opportunities and providing resume and interview assistance tailored to regional employers. Internship pipelines are probably developed through partnerships with local businesses and industries, offering practical experience in fields like welding, nursing, or business administration. Geographic hiring patterns strongly favor Northeast Kansas and potentially bordering areas of Missouri. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for community colleges whose primary mission is workforce development and local economic contribution rather than producing nationally recognized figures. The focus is on providing a skilled workforce for the immediate region.

Highland Community College (HCC) in Highland, Kansas, offers a close-knit campus experience that’s deeply rooted in its local community. With an enrollment of just over 1,200 students, HCC fosters an environment where students can easily connect with faculty and peers. The campus itself is compact and walkable, centered around a few key academic and student service buildings, making it easy to navigate. Social life here isn't about sprawling quads or a bustling Greek system; instead, it revolves around student organizations and community events. HCC has a variety of clubs catering to diverse interests, from academic clubs like the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) to service-oriented groups and intramural sports teams. These organizations are the primary hubs for social interaction and leadership development. Athletics play a role, with the Scotties competing in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference, providing opportunities for both athletes and fans to engage. Housing is primarily off-campus, with students often finding apartments or rooms in the town of Highland or nearby communities. This setup encourages students to integrate more fully with the local population, experiencing a more authentic slice of small-town Kansas life. Dining options are limited to on-campus facilities, typically a cafeteria-style service, which is convenient for students on tight schedules. The overall vibe at HCC is one of practicality, community support, and a focus on career readiness. It’s a place where students can get a solid education without the distractions of a large university, making it ideal for those seeking a focused, supportive, and affordable college experience.

Highland Community College's location in Highland, Kansas, offers a distinct set of advantages and challenges for its students. Situated in Northeast Kansas, the local job market is characterized by a strong presence in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, mirroring the industries where HCC graduates tend to find employment. The cost of living in Highland and its surrounding Doniphan County is notably low, making it an attractive option for students seeking affordability. This lower cost of living can translate into a faster debt payoff timeline and greater financial stability post-graduation.

While Highland is not directly adjacent to a major metropolitan industry hub, it benefits from proximity to larger cities like St. Joseph, Missouri (approximately 30 miles away), and Kansas City (around 70 miles away). These larger urban centers offer a broader range of job opportunities, particularly in advanced manufacturing, technology, and specialized healthcare fields, which can be accessible for graduates willing to commute or relocate. The quality of life in Highland is typical of a small rural town, emphasizing community, a slower pace, and access to outdoor recreational activities. Weather is characterized by four distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold winters. Safety is generally high in rural Kansas communities. The geographic advantage of HCC lies in its ability to provide affordable, accessible education to a region with specific workforce needs, while still offering a gateway to larger economic centers for those seeking broader career paths.

Applying to Highland Community College (HCC) is a straightforward process, reflecting its mission as an open-access institution. The primary goal of admissions is to ensure students are prepared for college-level coursework. HCC does not utilize Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) as these are typically reserved for more selective institutions. Instead, the focus is on meeting basic admission requirements. For most programs, a high school diploma or GED is the primary requirement. While specific GPA or test score ranges are not heavily emphasized for general admission, strong academic performance in high school can be beneficial for placement into appropriate courses and for scholarship consideration. HCC uses placement testing (often ACT or Accuplacer) to determine the appropriate starting point for students in subjects like English and Math, ensuring they receive the necessary support. Essays are generally not a required component of the application for standard admission, though they might be requested for specific scholarships or competitive programs. Demonstrated interest is not a formal factor in admissions decisions; the college welcomes all qualified applicants. The application timeline is typically flexible, with rolling admissions often in effect. It's recommended to apply at least a few months before the intended start date to allow ample time for financial aid processing and course registration. Prospective students should focus on completing the application accurately and submitting any required transcripts or placement test scores promptly.