Lake Michigan College
General Information
Overview
Lake Michigan College (LMC) is a public community college located in southwest Michigan, with its main campus in Benton Harbor and regional campuses in Niles and South Haven. Founded in 1946, the institution offers associate degrees, certificates and transfer pathways to four‑year institutions, along with technical training and workforce education designed to meet regional needs. Students at LMC benefit from a blend of academic instruction, practical skills training, and supportive services aimed at helping them succeed.
The college emphasizes affordability, accessibility, and community engagement, striving to offer the “lake effect” of opportunity in higher education. With over 80 programs—including liberal arts, sciences, skilled trades, information technology and health professions—LMC positions itself as a hub for both traditional college students and adult learners seeking career advancement or credentialing. Small class sizes, modern facilities, and partnerships with local employers and universities enhance the student experience and help facilitate transfer or employment outcomes.
Contact Informations
Address: 2755 E. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49022 USA
Phone Number: (269) 927‑8600 (Main Campus)
Email Address: admissions@lakemichigancollege.edu
School Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1946 |
| Motto / Tagline | “The Lake Effect… On the Rest of Your Life” |
| Institutional Type | Public community college |
| Location | Benton Township / Benton Harbor, Michigan, USA |
| Accreditation | Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission |
| Nickname / Mascot | Red Hawks |
Lake Michigan College Rankings
| Ranking Category | Rank / Position |
|---|---|
| U.S. Acceptance Rate | Approximately 100% (open enrollment) EduRank+1 |
| U.S. Graduation Rate | Reported around 22% completion rate for full‑time cohorts EduRank+1 |
| Global Ranking | Not broadly reported |
Lake Michigan College Academics
Lake Michigan College Faculties / Departments
- Arts & Sciences Division
- Business & Information Technology Division
- Health Sciences Division
- Skilled Trades, Manufacturing & Engineering Division
- Workforce Development & Continuing Education Division
- Student Success, Transfer & Academic Support Division
Lake Michigan College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts & Sciences
- Associate of Science in Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
- Certificate in Mechatronics Technology
- Certificate in Skilled Trades Technology
- Certificate in Information Technology (Online)
- Diploma in Manufacturing Technology
- Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration
Online Learning
Lake Michigan College offers online and hybrid course formats in several academic areas, enabling flexibility for students who are working, commuting, or seeking remote instruction. While hands‑on technical programs still require in‑person labs and workshops, LMC supports these with online theory components, virtual resources and remote access to many course materials. This blended delivery allows greater access, especially for adult learners and part‑time students.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Range / Data |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not publicly emphasized or required BigFuture+1 |
| ACT | Not broadly reported |
| GRE | Not applicable (community college level) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Lake Michigan College reports a retention rate (first‑year to second‑year) for full‑time students of approximately 89% in some sources, though part‑time retention is much lower (around 58%). EduRank The graduation (completion) rate within 150% of expected time for associate students is reported in some sources at about 22%, which reflects the open admissions model and the large number of part‑time, working students balancing other commitments. EduRank+1
Lake Michigan College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Lake Michigan College maintains an open admissions policy, meaning that students with a high school diploma or GED are eligible to apply, and there are generally no minimum GPA or standardized test score requirements for general admission. The focus is on accessibility and supporting students in beginning their postsecondary education.
Lake Michigan College Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~100% (open enrollment) EduRank |
Lake Michigan College Application Requirements
Prospective students must submit an application to the college, provide proof of high school graduation or GED equivalency, and complete placement assessments if required in English, mathematics or ESL. Applicants may also need to meet residency documentation and submit any prerequisite materials for programs that have additional requirements (such as health sciences or skilled trades programs). New students are strongly encouraged to participate in orientation and academic advising to plan their course of study and optimization of credits for transfer or credentialing.
Application Process
- Submit completed application form to LMC admissions
- Provide official high school transcript or GED certificate
- Complete placement testing for math/English/ESL if required
- Attend orientation or advising session to develop academic plan
- Register for classes and meet any program‑specific requirements (labs, physicals, tools)
Lake Michigan College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fall semester registration | Typically begins several months prior to start |
| Spring semester registration | Begins prior to term start |
| Rolling admissions | Many programs accept applications until cohorts fill |
| Program‑specific deadlines | Vary by program; students should check with department |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
Lake Michigan College does not generally require a personal essay for standard admissions. Some programs, particularly competitive ones in health sciences or trades, may request additional documentation or assessments, but a general essay is not a standard requirement for entry.
Lake Michigan College Scholarships
LMC offers scholarships, grants and aid for eligible students. Particularly noteworthy is the “LMC Promise” program, which offers free tuition for eligible in‑district students age 24 or younger under certain conditions. Lake Michigan College Students are encouraged to apply for federal financial aid, meet deadlines and consult with the financial aid office for scholarship opportunities and payment plans.
Lake Michigan College Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Cost Category | Estimate |
|---|---|
| In‑District Tuition (2025‑26) | $187 per contact hour (approx $4,488 for 12 credits) Lake Michigan College |
| Estimated Total Cost (Off‑Campus) | About $23,728 per year including tuition, supplies, room/board for full year Lake Michigan College |
Lake Michigan College Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Lake Michigan College serves a diverse student population, including traditional‑age students and a significant number of adult learners and part‑time students. According to some data, the gender distribution is approximately 61% female and 39% male. Burslar In terms of race and ethnicity, one source reports approximately 60% White, 13% Hispanic, 10% Black or African American, and others making up the rest. EduRank
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A large portion of LMC students receive federal financial aid or grants, indicating a significant share of low‑income students. The college also offers disability services and accessibility accommodations to support students with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to its programs and resources.
Student Body
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | Approximately 2,900 students (per one data set) Burslar |
| Full‑Time/Part‑Time Split | Majority part‑time or commuter students |
University Diversity
Lake Michigan College operates within a region of Michigan that includes a range of socioeconomic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The student body reflects this diversity, bringing together traditional students, adult learners, first‑generation college attendees and working professionals seeking skill advancement. The college’s commitment to inclusion is evident in programs like Early College for high school students, and initiatives like LMC Promise that make access more affordable. Diverse program offerings—from liberal arts transfer to skilled trades—allow students of varying goals to find a pathway that fits their background and aspirations. This environment fosters peer collaboration across ages and experiences, encouraging diverse perspectives in classroom and lab settings and preparing students to engage in a workforce that is increasingly multicultural and dynamic.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Lake Michigan College pursue a variety of outcomes: transfer to four‑year institutions, entry into technical or professional fields, or immediate employment following certificate programs. Although exact median salary data is limited, the college emphasizes that associate degrees and certificates can lead to increased earnings compared to high school diplomas. With affordable tuition, many students receive a strong return on investment by entering regional industries in health care, manufacturing, technology or business support. Over time, graduates can increase earnings by transferring to bachelor’s programs, gaining experience or upgrading credentials.
Lake Michigan College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Lake Michigan College employs both full‑time and adjunct faculty across its divisions, along with staff in student services, academic advising, career services, and technical support. The relatively small class sizes and focused advising structure help ensure students receive personalized attention and mentorship, especially in technical and lab‑based programs.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty at LMC include professionals with industry experience, advanced degrees in their disciplines, and active engagement with regional employers and transfer partners. Many instructors in skilled trades, manufacturing, IT and health sciences maintain certifications and relationships with the business community, which helps align curriculum with current workforce needs and job opportunities. Students benefit from instructors who bring real‑world knowledge and build connections to employers.
Lake Michigan College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
While Lake Michigan College has traditionally been a commuter college, the institution opened its first on‑campus residence hall (Beckwith Hall) in 2014, reflecting a move to provide more residential options. Vikipedi Campus life includes athletics—LMC Red Hawks compete in the NJCAA—student clubs, cultural events, a makerspace Fab Lab, and a performing arts center (Mendel Center). These amenities contribute to a richer campus experience beyond academics.
Transportation
The main campus is accessible by regional roads in Benton Township, and parking is available for commuter students. Public transportation access is more limited in the region, so many students commute by car. On‑campus mobility is supported by the campus layout, accessible facilities and evening class scheduling, catering to students who combine work, family and study.