Academic Programs & Learning
A comprehensive look at the academic experience at Central Arizona College: retention, enrollment intensity, and online learning options.
What About Academic Quality at Central Arizona College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
15:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
61%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
36%
Part-time students continuing
How Central Arizona College Compares
Central Arizona College's 61% full-time retention is right in the typical band for trade and vocational schools (most run between 50% and 70%). A 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio and 36% part-time retention tell a balanced story — academic quality is solid without being a clear standout.
Understanding Academic Quality Metrics
Student-Faculty Ratio: A ratio of 15:1 means there are approximately 15 students for every faculty member. This low ratio typically allows for more individualized attention and smaller class sizes.
Retention Rates: These show the percentage of students who return for their second year. Higher retention rates typically indicate student satisfaction, academic support, and program quality.
Graduation Rate Survey Cohort: 16% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Central Arizona College?
Tenure Status
Academic Ranks
Understanding Faculty Composition
Central Arizona College's teaching staff of 107 includes faculty at various academic ranks. Tenured professors make up 6% of instructional staff. The mix of ranked faculty and instructors supports diverse learning experiences.
How Successful Are Students at Central Arizona College?
Student Retention Rates
Retention Rate Comparison
New full-time students returning for second year
New part-time students returning for second year
Cohort Information
Student Success Analysis
Full-Time Success:61% retention rate shows moderate student engagement with room for improvement.
Retention Impact: Higher retention rates indicate student satisfaction, academic success, and effective institutional support systems.
With a 61% retention rate, Central Arizona College keeps a moderate share of its students year to year. Look into advising and tutoring resources to get the most from your experience.
Where Do Online Students at Central Arizona College Come From?
Geographic distribution of students enrolled exclusively in online courses (Fall 2024 census)
Where exclusively-online students are located
About this data: The geographic breakdown above uses IPEDS Fall Enrollment census data, which captures a single-day snapshot. The enrollment figures in the "How Do Students Learn?" section above use 12-month unduplicated headcount, which typically shows higher numbers as it covers the full academic year. Both are official IPEDS data — they measure different things.
85% of Central Arizona College's exclusively online students are located in AZ. An additional 15% study from other US states.
What Is the Academic Load at Central Arizona College?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:63.3% FTE ratio indicates many students attend part-time
Academic Load: FTE represents the equivalent of full-time students based on credit hours, helping compare institutional capacity regardless of part-time enrollment.
The FTE figure at Central Arizona College gives a standardized view of enrollment by accounting for both full-time and part-time students in a single metric.
How Intensively Do Students Study at Central Arizona College?
Student Enrollment Intensity
The Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) ratio shows the average course load intensity. An FTE ratio of 1.0 means all students attend full-time, while lower values indicate more part-time enrollment.
Significant part-time enrollment, ideal for working professionals and students with other responsibilities.
FTE represents student enrollment adjusted for course load. Two half-time students equal 1 FTE.
FTE Ratio Scale
Enrollment intensity at Central Arizona College sits at 0.63 — a measure of how much of the student body is enrolled full-time versus part-time.
Academic Support & Resources
Academic Advising
Students have access to academic advisors who can help with course selection, degree planning, and career guidance. Contact the admissions office to learn about advising services.
Student Success Services
Many institutions offer tutoring, study groups, and academic success workshops. These resources help students develop study skills and overcome academic challenges.
For detailed information about academic support services, tutoring hours, and learning resources, contact Central Arizona College directly at 5204945444 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 supports personalized learning
- 107 instructional staff with 6% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students from AZ and beyond (15% out-of-state)
- Strong retention rates demonstrate student satisfaction and academic support
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Central Arizona College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.