Academic Programs & Learning
How does Independence Community College in Independence, KS support student success? Retention rates, FTE analysis, and more.
What About Academic Quality at Independence Community College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
16:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
44%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
36%
Part-time students continuing
How Independence Community College Compares
Independence Community College's 44% retention sits below the typical benchmark for trade colleges. Worth investigating program length and student demographics — short certificate programs can produce low retention numbers even when students achieve their goals — but it's a metric to dig into rather than dismiss.
Understanding Academic Quality Metrics
Student-Faculty Ratio: A ratio of 16:1 means there are approximately 16 students for every faculty member. This moderate ratio balances personalized attention with institutional capacity.
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: 46% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Independence Community College?
Understanding Faculty Composition
Independence Community College employs 25 instructional staff members. About 68% hold tenured positions, which is typical for community and technical colleges where faculty are often hired on annual or multi-year contracts.
How Successful Are Students at Independence Community 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:44% retention rate indicates opportunities to enhance student support services.
Retention Impact: Higher retention rates indicate student satisfaction, academic success, and effective institutional support systems.
The retention rate at Independence Community College is 44%, which is below average. Prospective students should look closely at support services and program completion rates.
Where Do Online Students at Independence Community 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.
89% of Independence Community College's exclusively online students are located in KS. An additional 11% study from other US states.
What Is the Academic Load at Independence Community College?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:72.5% 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.
At Independence Community College, the FTE metric combines full-time and part-time enrollment into a single number, making it easier to compare with other institutions.
How Intensively Do Students Study at Independence Community 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.
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
The enrollment intensity at Independence Community College — measured by a 0.73 FTE-to-headcount ratio — shows the balance between full-time and part-time students.
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 Independence Community College directly at 6203314100 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1 supports personalized learning
- 25 instructional staff with 68% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students from KS and beyond (11% out-of-state)
- Strong retention rates demonstrate student satisfaction and academic support
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Independence Community College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.