Academic Programs & Learning
Academic quality, retention, and learning environment at Mountain Empire Community College in Big Stone Gap, VA.
What About Academic Quality at Mountain Empire Community College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
22:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
64%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
33%
Part-time students continuing
How Mountain Empire Community College Compares
A 64% retention rate for full-time students is within the typical range at Mountain Empire Community College. 33% of part-time students return as well — a useful sign of how the school accommodates non-traditional schedules. Compare this to specific peer schools in your search rather than a national benchmark.
Understanding Academic Quality Metrics
Student-Faculty Ratio: A ratio of 22:1 means there are approximately 22 students for every faculty member. This higher ratio may mean larger class sizes but can also indicate efficient resource utilization.
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: 61% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Mountain Empire Community College?
Tenure Status
Academic Ranks
Understanding Faculty Composition
Mountain Empire Community College's teaching staff of 45 includes faculty at various academic ranks. Tenured professors make up 13% of instructional staff. The mix of ranked faculty and instructors supports diverse learning experiences.
How Successful Are Students at Mountain Empire 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:64% 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.
At 64%, the retention rate at Mountain Empire Community College falls in a typical range for similar institutions. Students should consider the support services available when making their decision.
Where Do Online Students at Mountain Empire 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.
93% of Mountain Empire Community College's exclusively online students are located in VA. The school primarily serves local online learners.
What Is the Academic Load at Mountain Empire Community College?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:67.6% 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.
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) measures the total student enrollment at Mountain Empire Community College by converting part-time students into a full-time equivalent count.
How Intensively Do Students Study at Mountain Empire 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
With an FTE-to-headcount ratio of 0.68, Mountain Empire Community College's enrollment intensity reveals how committed students are to full-time study.
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 Mountain Empire Community College directly at 2765232400 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 22:1 supports personalized learning
- 45 instructional staff with 13% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students primarily from VA (93% in-state)
- Strong retention rates demonstrate student satisfaction and academic support
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Mountain Empire Community College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.