Klamath Community College
General Information — Klamath Community College
Overview
Klamath Community College (KCC) is a public two-year institution located in Klamath Falls, Oregon, serving primarily Klamath County and Lake County. The college was formally established in May 1996 when a community college district was voted into existence, though it had earlier offerings via contracts with nearby colleges. Its campus sits on approximately 57 acres on the east side of Klamath Falls. KCC offers associate degrees, certificate programs, and noncredit community education and workforce training.
The institution emphasizes accessible higher education, transfer pathways, and workforce development in a largely rural service area spanning over 14,500 square miles. KCC is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and has articulation agreements with multiple Oregon universities to facilitate student transfer. The college supports diverse learners including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and individuals seeking upskilling or certification. It also provides community education programs, GED preparation, and English language support, functioning as a regional educational anchor and community resource.
Contact Information
Address: 7390 South Sixth Street, Klamath Falls, Oregon 97603
Phone Number: (541) 882-3521
Email Address: admissions@klamathcc.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Establishment Date | May 21, 1996 |
| Type | Public community college |
| Campus Size | ~57 acres |
| Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Mascot / Nickname | Badger (Mascot: Baxter the Badger) |
| School Colors | Burgundy, Silver, Gold |
| Service Area | Klamath County and Lake County, Oregon |
| Transfer Articulation Partners | Eastern Oregon University, Oregon Institute of Technology, Oregon State University, Southern Oregon University, Linfield College |
| Number of Programs | ~22 degree programs, ~25 certificate programs |
Klamath Community College Rankings
| Metric / Category | Position / Status |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100% (open admission) |
| Niche Ranking among Community Colleges | ~#296 of 673 in U.S. |
| Graduation / Completion Rate | ~42% (reported by some sources) |
| Distance Education Participation | ~29% of students enrolled exclusively online |
| Net Price (average after aid) | Approximately $6,920 |
Klamath Community College Academics
Klamath Community College Faculties / Departments
- Arts & Sciences Division
- Business & Technology Division
- Health & Human Services Division
- Workforce Development & Community Education
- Basic Skills / Developmental Education
- Transfer Studies / General Education
Klamath Community College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Associate of Arts / Associate of Science (transfer)
- Associate of Applied Science (career/technical)
- Certificates in fields such as welding, wildland fire, emergency medical services
- Health programs: Nursing, Medical Assisting, Health Information Technology
- Business and technology: accounting, business administration, cybersecurity
- Trades and applied technology: welding, automotive, carpentry
- Community education / noncredit courses: computer skills, ESL, GED preparation
Online Learning
KCC offers a significant number of online and hybrid courses to accommodate students beyond its immediate region. Its “Online Instruction Center” provides interactive courses taught fully online in general education, business, and other fields. In recent data, roughly 566 of its 1,936 students (about 29%) are enrolled exclusively in online degree programs, and an additional segment enrolls in some online coursework. This flexibility supports rural and remote students, working adults, and those needing scheduling accommodations. Noncredit and continuing education courses also frequently use online delivery.
Average Test Scores
| Test / Assessment | Range / Policy |
|---|---|
| SAT / ACT | Not required for admission |
| Placement Exams (e.g. ACCUPLACER or equivalent) | Used for English / math placement |
| High School GPA | Required documentation of diploma or equivalent; no strict minimum published |
Because KCC operates under open enrollment, standardized test scores like SAT/ACT are not typically required; placement testing is used to guide course placement in math and English.
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention and completion metrics at KCC reflect community college norms and local challenges such as part-time attendance. According to state “snapshot” reporting, first-year retention (students continuing after the first year) is around 76%. In terms of completions, within four years a combination of certificate, associate degree, or transfer-out rates yields overall completion or transfer in about 49% of credential-seeking students. The college monitors these metrics and emphasizes support services, advising, and alignment with transfer pathways to improve student success.
Klamath Community College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
KCC maintains an open admission policy for degree and certificate programs, meaning it does not enforce a strict GPA requirement or require SAT/ACT submissions. Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or GED, and their coursework history may be considered for placement or program eligibility. For competitive programs (such as health or nursing), additional criteria or prerequisites may apply.
Klamath Community College Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100% (open admission) |
Since KCC admits all eligible applicants who meet basic requirements, its acceptance rate is effectively universal among qualifying applicants.
Klamath Community College Application Requirements
Prospective students must submit an application through KCC’s admissions process, provide proof of high school completion or GED, and submit transcripts. They must also complete placement testing for English and mathematics, unless exempted by prior coursework or scores. For certain programs (e.g. nursing), there may be additional requirements like immunization records, criminal background check, or prerequisite courses. Noncredit or continuing education students may have more flexible requirements. KCC does not typically require essays or letters of recommendation for standard admission.
Application Process
- Complete and submit KCC admission application
- Provide official high school or GED transcript
- Complete placement tests (math/English) if required
- Meet with academic advisor to choose program track
- Submit any additional program-specific documentation
- Register for classes and attend orientation
Klamath Community College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term | Deadline / Start |
|---|---|
| Fall Term | Late summer (varies annually) |
| Spring Term | End of preceding year (varies) |
| Summer / Short-term sessions | Prior to session start |
| Financial Aid Filing Deadline | Early in the year (e.g. FAFSA timing) |
Because KCC operates semester terms and rolling enrollment in sections, precise deadlines vary; students should consult admissions each term.
Essay Prompt
Klamath Community College typically does not require an essay for general admission. If supplemental statements are required for selective or competitive programs, they may ask students to articulate career objectives, motivation for entering the field, or personal background relevant to program success.
Klamath Community College Scholarships
KCC offers institutional scholarships, foundation awards, and access to state and federal aid programs. Scholarships may be based on merit, financial need, or program alignment. Students are encouraged to complete FAFSA and apply early to maximize eligibility. Some programs may reserve scholarship funds for students in high-demand or technical fields. KCC also participates in Oregon Promise and other state-level tuition support for eligible students.
Klamath Community College Tuition Fee
| Type | Estimate / Average |
|---|---|
| Net Price after Aid | ~$6,920 |
| In-State Tuition & Fees | Moderate (varies by credit load) |
| Books & Supplies | Varies by program |
| Nonresident Tuition | Higher than resident rate |
| Additional Costs | Lab fees, program supplies, course materials |
These figures reflect average net costs after grants and aid; the actual charges depend on credit load, residency, and specific program requirements.
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
In the 2023-2024 academic year, Klamath Community College enrolled approximately 1,936 undergraduate students. Among them, about 58.1% identify as female and 41.9% as male. Full-time students number 575, while 1,361 attend part-time. The age composition is diverse: roughly 661 are under 18 or dual-credit high school students, 354 fall in the 18–19 range, and many others extend into adult learner categories up to older ages. Regarding race/ethnicity, about 1,215 students identify as White, 380 as Hispanic/Latino, 61 as American Indian / Native American, 30 as Asian, 18 as Black / African American, 8 as Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander, 111 as multiracial, and 109 as unknown or unreported.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A significant portion of KCC’s students rely on financial aid, grants, and institutional scholarships to meet their cost of attendance. According to state “snapshot” reporting, many students are unable to meet all expenses with expected resources, highlighting need for aid and support. KCC also maintains disability services to provide accommodations, assistive technologies, and academic support for students with disabilities. The college strives to be an inclusive and accessible institution, particularly given its rural service area and student population with diverse economic backgrounds.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~1,936 students |
| Full-Time Students | 575 |
| Part-Time Students | 1,361 |
| Female Students | ~1,124 (58%) |
| Male Students | ~812 (42%) |
University Diversity
Klamath Community College serves a diverse student population reflective of its regional context and mission of access. Although a majority of students identify as White, nearly one third (about 31%) identify as students of color—including Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Asian, and multiracial backgrounds. KCC’s demographic spectrum is enriched by dual-credit high school students, adult learners, and multi-generational students. The presence of students from varied life stages and ethnicities fosters cross-generational and cross-cultural learning interactions. The college prioritizes inclusion through student support, multicultural programming, and equity-minded initiatives. KCC’s role in a rural, geographically wide service district underscores its importance in reaching underserved populations. Its commitment to rural education, workforce equity, and open access makes the campus a critical access point for students who might lack options for higher education in remote regions.
Average Earnings
Outcomes data reveal that graduates of KCC’s credential programs tend to enter regional job markets with moderate starting salaries that grow over time. According to the state educational snapshot, five years after completion, associate degree credential holders report median earnings around $37,174, and bachelor’s level (for those who transferred and completed further) climb to approximately $56,800. Over a ten-year horizon, earnings tend to increase further, reflecting extended education or career advancement. These figures suggest that KCC’s programs deliver meaningful economic benefit, especially when combined with transfer pathways. Given the rural labor market, local credential-holders in health, technical, and service fields can secure stable employment, and those who transfer to four-year institutions enhance their lifetime earnings.
Klamath Community College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
KCC employs instructional faculty, administrative staff, student services personnel, and technical support. Faculty are distributed across academic divisions and workforce training units. The college supports a community-oriented environment where instructors, advisors, and staff collaborate closely to guide students. Given KCC’s scale and mission, many staff perform multiple roles—teaching, advising, and program coordination. The institutional commitment to student success is supported by a structure of student support services, counseling, libraries, and technology support.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at Klamath Community College often hold master’s degrees or higher in their disciplines, with experience in teaching, industry, or research. Many instructors bring applied knowledge to the classroom, especially in technical, health, and workforce programs. Faculty contribute to curriculum development, articulation agreements, and community partnerships. Their achievements include guiding students to transfer institutions, publishing in educational domains, and serving rural community needs. Because of the robust transfer partnerships, faculty also align their teaching to standards at four-year institutions, ensuring students are well-prepared for the next level. Their dedication to access, equity, and regional development is central to KCC’s identity.
Klamath Community College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
KCC’s campus in Klamath Falls is primarily commuter and does not maintain institutional student housing. Many students live in nearby towns or rent housing locally. Campus life revolves around academic clubs, student government, service organizations, cultural events, and regional engagement. Students connect through learning centers, tutoring facilities, library services, shared lounge spaces, and occasional campus gatherings. Because the campus serves a broad rural region, many students commute long distances, and campus scheduling and support structures reflect that need. While residential life is limited, KCC seeks to foster community via events, networking, and student engagement opportunities aligned with program cohorts.
Transportation
The college is accessible via local roads and regional transit routes in Klamath Falls. Students commonly commute by car, bike, or local public transportation where available. On-campus mobility is efficient, with buildings, labs, classrooms, and support services within walking distance. Parking is available for students and staff in campus lots. The compact campus layout ensures that internal movement between academic, administrative, and support facilities is manageable. Because many students live at some distance, regional transportation connectivity and commuting support are important for access.