Some people enroll in a university or four-year college after high school to earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. However, these are expensive and time-consuming options that may not be the right fit for everyone, especially those returning to school after a long break. That’s where two-year or community colleges come in. These educational institutions offer associate degrees — usually lasting 2 years or less — that are affordable and accessible.
Following a sharp decline between 2020 and 2023, community college enrollment is now on the rise. Over 200,000 new students enrolled in a community college in 2024, a 4.7 percent increase from 2023. Despite this growth, community college enrollment is still 12.4 percent less than pre-pandemic levels.
Thanks to their impact on the economy and the communities they serve, further enrollment growth must become a priority for community colleges going into 2025. Read on to learn why community college is important and what challenges 2-year institutions must overcome to succeed.
Community colleges greatly influence the academic landscape by making education more accessible. Many students find it easier to enroll in two-year institutions due to their:
The key advantage of a community college is its affordability. In 2024, the average yearly cost for in-state tuition at a public, four-year postsecondary institution was $9,750, with attendance costs — including tuition, books, supplies, and room and board — reaching an average of $27,146 per student. If students want to attend a private nonprofit four-year institution, they’d pay $38,421 for tuition alone.
Community colleges are far more affordable. In-state tuition costs $3,780 per year, and the annual cost of attendance is $12,917. The lower costs make community college a viable option for low-income, first-generation, and returning students, increasing access to higher education. Community college students also have less student debt, which is better for the economy.
In addition to shorter, more affordable training courses, many community colleges have open admissions policies with relaxed requirements, allowing students from all walks of life to enroll. These factors make community colleges attractive for anyone looking to start their education journey, advance their career, or learn a new skill.
Consequently, two-year colleges often have incredibly diverse student populations, ranging from young adults to students 40 years and older. Students also come from various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. This diversity creates an enriched learning environment where students experience and exchange differing perspectives and ideas.
Community colleges also positively impact academics due to their flexible programs and structure. Many students have additional responsibilities and limited time, making studying full-time unachievable. Two-year colleges make studying accessible by offering evening classes, flexible schedules, and online learning so students can attend however is most convenient. This way, it’s easier for students to balance educational pursuits with their personal responsibilities.
Students can also use community college as a stepping stone to a four-year degree. They can take a lower-commitment course at a two-year institution to discover their interests and then transfer to another institution where they can earn a bachelor’s degree. The experience helps students decide whether college is the right choice and can lower the cost of obtaining a degree.
The success of community colleges positively impacts the economy, which is why they are so important to society. Two-year colleges boost the economy by providing students with:
While many students attend community college to improve their career prospects, the experience also influences their personal lives and the community they’re a part of.
One study found that 54 percent of students feel motivated to attend community college to become the best version of themselves, learn new things, and become a role model. Around 33 percent of community college students say they enrolled to help future generations, contribute to their community, and make their family and community proud.
These findings indicate that community college helps people grow and improve their lives. Once students complete a course, the extra earnings can also help improve their socioeconomic status and quality of life. For some, obtaining a qualification from a community college can pull themselves, their family, and the entire community out of poverty.
Despite the importance of community college and its impact on education, communities, and the economy, many community colleges struggle to stay afloat. In 2025 and beyond, two-year educational institutions must still work to overcome issues related to:
At Watermark, we’ve spent the past 20 years helping higher education institutions like community colleges utilize and learn from data. Our innovative software solutions can help your institution uncover insights that maximize educational impact and improve student and faculty success. Data is your key to overcoming common community college challenges.
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