Academic Programs & Learning
Academic quality, retention, and learning environment at Richland Community College in Decatur, IL.
What About Academic Quality at Richland Community College?
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
15:1
Average students per faculty member
Full-Time Retention
64%
Students continuing to second year
Part-Time Retention
55%
Part-time students continuing
How Richland Community College Compares
Richland Community College's 64% 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 55% 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: 4% of entering students are tracked for graduation outcomes.
Who Teaches at Richland Community College?
Tenure Status
Academic Ranks
Understanding Faculty Composition
Richland Community College's teaching staff of 47 includes faculty at various academic ranks. Tenured professors make up 8% of instructional staff. The mix of ranked faculty and instructors supports diverse learning experiences.
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:56.0% 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 Richland Community 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 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
Richland Community College has an enrollment intensity of 0.56, 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 Richland Community College directly at 2178757200 or visit their website .
Key Academic Highlights
- Student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 supports personalized learning
- 47 instructional staff with 8% holding tenured positions
- Flexible scheduling options accommodate working students and adult learners
- Online students primarily from IL (100% in-state)
Ready to Learn More About Academics at Richland Community College?
Contact the admissions office to discuss academic programs, support services, and learning options.