Academic Programs & Learning
A comprehensive look at the academic experience at Richland Community College: retention, enrollment intensity, and online learning options.
What About Academic Quality at Richland Community College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
15:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
60%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
40%
Part-time students continuing
How Richland Community College Compares
Richland Community College's 60% 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 40% 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: 23% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Richland Community College?
Tenure Status
Academic Ranks
Understanding Faculty Composition
With 49 instructors, Richland Community College supports both research-oriented and teaching-focused academic programs. The 18% tenure rate indicates a blend of experienced career faculty and newer educators.
How Successful Are Students at Richland 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:60% 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.
Richland Community College retains 60% of its students annually. Understanding retention helps gauge whether students are finding the academic support they need.
Where Do Online Students at Richland 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.
100% of Richland Community College's exclusively online students are located in IL. The school primarily serves local online learners.
What Is the Academic Load at Richland Community College?
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Analysis
FTE Analysis
Study Intensity:57.7% 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 Richland 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 at Richland 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.
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
The enrollment intensity ratio at Richland Community College is 0.58. This figure helps prospective students understand the school's enrollment patterns and peer dynamics.
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 Richland Community College directly at 2178757200 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 supports personalized learning
- 49 instructional staff with 18% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students primarily from IL (100% in-state)
- Strong retention rates demonstrate student satisfaction and academic support
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Richland Community College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.