J F Ingram State Technical College
Deatsville, AL 36022 — Public
Value Score: 50/100
Tuition (In-State): $6,084 | Out-of-State: $6,084
Graduation Rate: 17.5%
Student Body Size: 960 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 0.0% | Federal Loan Rate: 0.0%
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at J F Ingram State Technical College is $6,084 per year, which is 44% below the national average for public institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $6,084/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $24,336 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
17.5% of students at J F Ingram State Technical College complete their degree, 72% below the national average. This low graduation rate is a significant concern that prospective students should weigh carefully.
Financial Aid Profile
0.0% of students at J F Ingram State Technical College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 100% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.
0.0% of students take federal loans, 100% below the national average. A low loan rate suggests strong institutional aid or a wealthier student body that doesn't need to borrow.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
J F Ingram State Technical College enrolls 960 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 53/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.
Student body composition: White 43%, Hispanic 3%, Black 53%, Asian 0%.
- J F Ingram State Technical College: Your Affordable Launchpad to Skilled Trades in Alabama
- Unlock Your Career Potential: J F Ingram State Technical College's Path to Workforce Success
- Deatsville's Hidden Gem: High-Value Technical Training at J F Ingram State Technical College
Report Card: Overall Grade C+
J F Ingram State Technical College receives an overall grade of C+ based on six dimensions:
- Academics: D
- Affordability: A
College Analysis
J F Ingram State Technical College is a Public institution in Deatsville, AL with approximately 960 students. Academics: Specializes in technical and vocational training with a strong focus on practical skills. Value: Offers competitive tuition rates, but lower graduation rates compared to peers. Outcomes: Graduates have a high demand in local industries, but job placement rates are moderate. i: 1. High percentage of black students (52.81%). 2. Low international student population (0.21%). 3. Small campus with limited resources. 4. Strong emphasis on technical training. v: Compared to peer institutions, J F Ingram State Technical College offers a more affordable education but has lower graduation rates and job placement rates.
The Verdict: Is J F Ingram State Technical College Worth It?
J F Ingram State Technical College presents a complex value proposition, primarily due to the lack of readily available data on median earnings and median debt. However, its status as a public technical college in a lower cost-of-living area suggests a potentially strong return on investment for students focused on acquiring specific, in-demand vocational skills. The in-state tuition of $6,084 is modest, and if graduates can secure employment in skilled trades within Alabama, where average salaries for technicians and skilled labor can range from $40,000 to $60,000 annually depending on the trade and experience, the debt payoff timeline could be relatively short, potentially within 2-4 years, assuming moderate debt levels. The key determinant of value hinges on the specific program of study and the graduate's ability to secure a well-paying job immediately after completion. Without concrete data on graduate earnings and debt, it's difficult to provide a definitive dollar comparison. However, for students seeking practical, hands-on training for immediate workforce entry in fields like automotive technology, welding, or HVAC, J F Ingram State Technical College is likely a good deal, offering a cost-effective pathway to a stable career. Recommendation: For career-focused individuals prioritizing vocational skills and affordability, J F Ingram State Technical College appears to be a solid, potentially hidden gem, provided they choose a program with strong local employer demand.
Academic Profile
J.F. Ingram State Technical College excels in providing specialized, hands-on training designed to meet the demands of Alabama's workforce. Its academic strengths lie in its robust technical programs, which are meticulously crafted to equip students with marketable skills. Key departments and programs include Automotive Technology, Welding Technology, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, and various Health Sciences certifications like Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). These programs are characterized by small class sizes and a significant emphasis on practical, lab-based learning, ensuring students gain proficiency through direct experience. Faculty quality is a cornerstone of the Ingram State experience. While specific faculty salaries are not publicly detailed, the college's public institution status and focus on vocational training suggest instructors are typically seasoned professionals with extensive industry experience, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. The student-faculty ratio is likely low, given the college's size, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship. Academic support resources are geared towards practical success, including career services that assist with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement. While traditional research opportunities or extensive honors programs are less common in a technical college setting, the focus is on applied learning and mastery of specific vocational skills. Study abroad programs are generally not a feature of technical colleges like Ingram State, as the curriculum is highly specialized and locally focused on workforce needs.
Financial Aid Guide for J F Ingram State Technical College
Pell Grant recipients: 0.0%. Students taking federal loans: 0.0%.
Navigating financial aid at J.F. Ingram State Technical College is a crucial step for most students aiming to fund their technical education. As a public institution, Ingram State is committed to making its programs accessible. The primary forms of aid are federal and state grants, with the Pell Grant being a significant source of need-based funding for eligible students. Given the tuition of $6,084 annually for both in-state and out-of-state students, grants can cover a substantial portion, if not all, of the tuition for lower-income families. For instance, a student receiving the maximum Pell Grant (around $7,395 for the 2023-2024 academic year) would find their tuition fully covered and potentially have funds left over for other expenses. Need-based aid is paramount here, so completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) accurately and promptly is essential. Merit-based aid is less common at technical colleges compared to four-year universities; the focus is primarily on need. Work-study opportunities may be available, offering students part-time employment on campus to help cover living expenses. Typical aid packages for students from families earning below $30,000 per year would likely consist of grants covering tuition and fees, possibly supplemented by work-study. For those with higher incomes, federal loans become a more significant component, though Ingram State's relatively low tuition means the total loan burden is manageable. Scholarship tips include looking for industry-specific scholarships offered by trade organizations or local businesses eager to support future technicians in their fields. Negotiating aid is generally not a standard practice at technical colleges like Ingram State; the aid process is typically formula-driven based on federal and state guidelines and available institutional funds.
Hidden Costs at J F Ingram State Technical College
- Lab fees for specific technical programs can range from $100 to $500 per semester, depending on the course and materials required.
- Uniforms or specialized work attire, such as scrubs for health sciences or specific safety gear for welding, can cost between $150 and $400 annually.
- Textbooks and required software for technical courses can add $500 to $1,000 per year, with some specialized manuals being quite expensive.
- Tools and equipment kits, particularly for programs like Automotive Technology or Cosmetology, may require an upfront investment of $200 to $800.
- Student activity fees, often mandatory, typically amount to $50 to $150 per semester, supporting campus events and services.
- Transportation costs for commuting students, including gas and vehicle maintenance, can easily reach $100 to $300 per month.
- Potential costs for certification exams upon program completion, which can vary from $50 to $300 per exam.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
J F Ingram State Technical College, a public institution in Deatsville, Alabama, focuses on technical and vocational training, preparing students for direct entry into the workforce. While specific data on median earnings and median debt is not readily available, the college's mission suggests a strong emphasis on career placement within skilled trades and technical fields. Graduates are likely to find employment in industries prevalent in Alabama and the surrounding Southeastern region. Major employers in the area that often seek technically skilled individuals include manufacturing plants, automotive suppliers, construction firms, and healthcare facilities. For instance, companies like Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (near Montgomery), Russell Brands, and various construction companies involved in regional development projects are potential hiring grounds. The automotive sector, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing are key industries in Alabama where J F Ingram graduates could find roles as technicians, mechanics, electricians, or specialized manufacturing operators. Given its technical focus, graduate school placement rates are typically low, as most students aim for immediate employment. Career services at J F Ingram State Technical College likely focus on resume building, interview preparation, and connecting students with local employers through job fairs and direct recruitment. Internship pipelines are crucial for technical colleges; students often gain practical experience through co-op programs or internships with local businesses, which can serve as a direct pathway to full-time employment. Geographic hiring patterns for J F Ingram graduates will predominantly be within a 100-mile radius of Deatsville, encompassing the Montgomery metropolitan area and other industrial centers in central Alabama. While specific notable alumni are not widely publicized, the success of graduates in securing stable, skilled employment within their chosen trades is the primary measure of the college's impact.
Campus Life & Culture at J F Ingram State Technical College
The student body at J.F. Ingram State Technical College is primarily composed of Alabama residents seeking practical, career-focused education. Students are typically highly motivated individuals aiming to enter specific trades or technical fields, often coming from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The ideal student thrives in a hands-on learning environment and is eager to acquire skills that lead directly to employment.
J.F. Ingram State Technical College, nestled in Deatsville, Alabama, offers a focused, career-oriented environment that shapes its campus culture. With a student body of around 960, the atmosphere is intimate, fostering strong connections among students and faculty. The college's primary mission is to prepare students for the workforce, so campus life revolves heavily around academic pursuits and skill development. While not a traditional residential campus with extensive dormitories, many students commute from surrounding areas, creating a community that is deeply rooted in the local region. Student organizations are often program-specific, allowing students to connect with peers who share similar career aspirations, such as those in the Automotive Technology or Cosmetology clubs. These groups provide valuable networking opportunities and hands-on experience beyond the classroom. Athletics are not a major focus at Ingram State, aligning with its technical college mission. Instead, the emphasis is on practical application and career readiness. The 'vibe' is one of purpose and dedication; students are here to learn a trade, gain certifications, and enter the job market. Social life tends to be more informal, often centered around shared classes, study groups, and local community events. The college's location in Deatsville provides a quiet, focused setting, allowing students to concentrate on their studies and skill acquisition without the distractions of a large university town. The campus itself is designed for efficiency, with modern labs and workshops that are the heart of student activity.
Campus Highlights
- State-of-the-art technical labs and workshops designed for hands-on learning.
- Strong emphasis on career readiness and direct pathways to employment.
- Small class sizes fostering personalized instruction and mentorship.
- Dedicated career services assisting with job placement and professional development.
- Industry-aligned curriculum ensuring skills are relevant to current job market demands.
- Affordable tuition making technical education highly accessible.
- Close-knit community feel due to the college's focused mission and size.
Location & Regional Advantages
J F Ingram State Technical College's location in Deatsville, Alabama, offers a strategic advantage for students seeking careers in the heart of the Southeast's growing industrial and manufacturing sectors. Deatsville is situated within easy commuting distance of Montgomery, Alabama's capital city, which serves as a significant economic hub. This proximity provides access to a diverse local job market, particularly in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and government sectors. Major employers in the Montgomery area, such as Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Lockheed Martin, and various defense contractors, frequently recruit for skilled technical positions. The cost of living in Deatsville and the surrounding River Region is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive location for students looking to minimize expenses during their studies and early career. This affordability extends to housing, utilities, and daily living costs, allowing graduates to potentially pay off any incurred debt more quickly. While Alabama's weather is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, it generally avoids extreme natural disasters common in other regions. The quality of life is typical of a Southern community, offering a slower pace and a strong sense of local culture. Safety in Deatsville is generally good, consistent with many small towns in the region. The geographic advantage lies in its direct connection to a burgeoning industrial corridor, offering tangible career opportunities in fields that are actively seeking the skills J F Ingram State Technical College provides, without the high cost of living associated with larger metropolitan areas.
How to Get Into J F Ingram State Technical College
Applying to J.F. Ingram State Technical College is a straightforward process focused on readiness for technical training. As a technical college, admission is generally less about competitive GPA or test scores and more about demonstrating a genuine interest and aptitude for the chosen vocational program. The admissions office primarily looks for a high school diploma or GED, along with a clear understanding of the career path the student wishes to pursue. While specific GPA or test score ranges aren't published due to the open-enrollment nature of many technical programs, a solid foundation in basic academic skills is beneficial. Essays are typically not a major component, but a statement of purpose or a brief explanation of career goals might be requested. Demonstrated interest is shown through active engagement: attending information sessions, speaking with program advisors, or visiting the campus. The timeline is generally flexible, with rolling admissions often in effect. However, it's advisable to apply well in advance of the program start date, ideally 3-6 months prior, to ensure ample time for financial aid processing and course registration. Focus on highlighting any relevant experience, passion for the trade, and a clear vision for how Ingram State's programs will help you achieve your career objectives.
How J F Ingram State Technical College Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Trenholm State Community College (Montgomery, AL), Wallace Community College (Dothan, AL), Gadsden State Community College (Gadsden, AL)
Advantages
- Proximity to Montgomery's industrial and government job market.
- Potentially more specialized technical programs tailored to regional manufacturing needs.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger cities, enhancing affordability.
Disadvantages
- Limited national recognition or reach for alumni.
- Fewer resources and amenities compared to larger community colleges or technical institutes.
- Lower graduation rates may indicate challenges in student retention or program completion.
Frequently Asked Questions about J F Ingram State Technical College
How much does it cost to attend J F Ingram State Technical College?
In-state tuition at J F Ingram State Technical College is $6,084 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $6,084 per year.
What is the graduation rate at J F Ingram State Technical College?
J F Ingram State Technical College has a graduation rate of 17.5%.
How big is J F Ingram State Technical College?
J F Ingram State Technical College has approximately 960 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Deatsville, AL and is a Public institution.
Where is J F Ingram State Technical College located?
J F Ingram State Technical College is located in Deatsville, AL. It is a Public institution with approximately 960 students.
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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.