Academic Programs & Learning
A comprehensive look at the academic experience at Highland Community College: retention, enrollment intensity, and online learning options.
What About Academic Quality?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
12:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
69%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
64%
Part-time students continuing
Understanding Academic Quality Metrics
Student-Faculty Ratio: A ratio of 12:1 means there are approximately 12 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: 29% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches Here?
Understanding Faculty Composition
With 45 instructors on staff, Highland Community College maintains a teaching-focused faculty. Like many trade and technical schools, the emphasis is on practical instruction rather than academic tenure tracks.
Where Do Online Students 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.
98% of Highland Community College's exclusively online students are located in IL. The school primarily serves local online learners.
What Is the Academic Load?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:79.9% 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.
FTE enrollment at Highland Community College converts all student enrollment into full-time equivalents, providing a clearer picture of the school's actual academic workload.
How Intensively Do Students Study?
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.
A mix of full-time and part-time students, offering flexibility for those balancing work, family, and education.
FTE represents student enrollment adjusted for course load. Two half-time students equal 1 FTE.
FTE Ratio Scale
Highland Community College has an enrollment intensity of 0.80, reflecting the proportion of full-time to part-time students. This can signal the pace and rigor of available programs.
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 Highland Community College directly at 8152356121 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 supports personalized learning
- 45 instructional staff
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students primarily from IL (98% in-state)
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Highland Community College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.