Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Kalamazoo Valley Community College General Information
Overview
Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC) is a public community college located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Established in 1966, KVCC has become a cornerstone for higher education in southwest Michigan, offering associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs designed to meet the needs of both traditional students and adult learners. The college emphasizes accessibility, affordability, and high-quality instruction, preparing students for transfer to four-year universities or for immediate employment in local and regional industries.
KVCC operates multiple campuses, including the Texas Township Campus and the Arcadia Commons Campus, providing modern classrooms, labs, and resources to support learning in various disciplines. The institution prioritizes experiential learning, industry partnerships, and career readiness, with programs in health sciences, business, technology, liberal arts, and skilled trades. KVCC is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can succeed academically and professionally. The college also emphasizes community engagement, offering continuing education, cultural events, and outreach programs that benefit the broader Kalamazoo region.
Contact Informations
Address: 6767 West O Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009 USA
Phone Number: (269) 488-4400
Email Address: info@kvcc.edu
School Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1966 |
| Motto / Tagline | “Inspiring Learning, Changing Lives” |
| Institutional Type | Public community college |
| Location | Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Nickname / Mascot | Cougars |
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Rankings
| Ranking Category | Rank / Position |
|---|---|
| U.S. Acceptance Rate | Approximately 100% (open enrollment) |
| U.S. Graduation Rate | Around 16-20% within 150% of expected time |
| Global Ranking | Not widely reported |
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Academics
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Faculties / Departments
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
- Business, Information & Technology
- Health & Public Services
- Skilled Trades & Manufacturing
- Science, Engineering & Math
- Workforce Development & Continuing Education
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts
- Associate of Science in Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
- Certificate in Medical Assisting
- Certificate in Information Technology
- Diploma in Welding Technology
- Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration
- Associate in Applied Science in Automotive Technology
Online Learning
KVCC provides online and hybrid learning options for a variety of programs, allowing students the flexibility to complete coursework remotely while maintaining access to faculty support and learning resources. Online learning is integrated with interactive tools, video lectures, and virtual labs for programs that permit remote instruction.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Range / Data |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not required; scores optional |
| ACT | Not required; scores optional |
| GRE | Not applicable (community college level) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The first-year retention rate for full-time students is approximately 85%, while part-time student retention is lower due to external commitments such as work and family. The graduation rate for students completing an associate degree or certificate within 150% of normal program length is estimated at around 16-20%, reflecting the college’s open enrollment policies and the diverse student population.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
KVCC maintains an open admissions policy, accepting students who have earned a high school diploma or GED. There are no minimum GPA or standardized test score requirements, making the college accessible to a wide range of learners.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~100% (open enrollment) |
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed application, provide proof of high school graduation or GED, and complete placement testing if necessary for English or mathematics courses. Some specialized programs, such as health sciences or skilled trades, may require additional prerequisites or documentation. Students are encouraged to attend orientation sessions and meet with academic advisors to develop a tailored educational plan and ensure successful course registration.
Application Process
- Submit application to KVCC admissions office
- Provide official high school transcript or GED certificate
- Complete placement assessments if required
- Attend orientation or advising sessions
- Register for courses and meet program-specific requirements
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fall semester registration | Begins several months prior to term start |
| Spring semester registration | Begins prior to term start |
| Rolling admissions | Many programs accept applications until full |
| Program-specific deadlines | Vary by department; check with advisors |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
KVCC generally does not require an essay for admissions. Certain competitive programs may request additional documentation or personal statements, but the majority of programs rely on an open enrollment model without an essay requirement.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Scholarships
KVCC provides scholarships, grants, and financial aid options, including merit-based, need-based, and program-specific awards. The college also supports federal financial aid applications and offers assistance with tuition planning, helping students maximize available resources.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Cost Category | Estimate |
|---|---|
| In-District Tuition | $174 per credit hour (approx. $4,176 for 12 credits) |
| Out-of-District Tuition | $219 per credit hour |
| Estimated Total Cost | Varies based on program, room, board, supplies |
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
KVCC serves a diverse population including traditional college-age students, adult learners, and working professionals. Approximately 58% of the student body is female, and 42% is male. The racial and ethnic composition includes a majority of White students, followed by African American, Hispanic, and other groups, reflecting the broader diversity of the Kalamazoo region.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Many KVCC students qualify for federal financial aid or receive grants, demonstrating a significant proportion of low-income students. The college also provides services and accommodations to support students with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to academic programs and campus resources.
Student Body
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | Approximately 8,000 students |
| Full-Time / Part-Time Split | Mix of full-time and part-time learners |
University Diversity
Kalamazoo Valley Community College emphasizes inclusivity and cultural diversity. Students come from a variety of socioeconomic, racial, and age backgrounds, fostering a rich learning environment. Programs such as adult education, workforce training, and early college initiatives create pathways for students who may not have had traditional access to higher education. The college actively promotes an inclusive campus culture through clubs, organizations, and events that celebrate diverse perspectives, equipping students to thrive in a multicultural workforce.
Average Earnings
Graduates of KVCC benefit from practical skills training and transferable credits that prepare them for careers in health sciences, business, technology, and skilled trades. Students entering the workforce immediately after graduation often experience competitive starting salaries in regional industries, and transfer students leverage their associate degrees to pursue higher-paying positions after completing bachelor’s programs. The combination of career-oriented programs, low tuition, and strong industry partnerships enhances the return on investment for KVCC students.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
KVCC employs a mix of full-time and adjunct faculty, supported by staff in academic advising, career services, and student support. Small class sizes and personalized attention are hallmarks of the faculty-student experience, enhancing engagement and student success.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty members have both academic credentials and professional experience in their respective fields, ensuring instruction is relevant and practical. Many instructors maintain industry certifications, participate in ongoing professional development, and collaborate with local employers to align curricula with workforce demands.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
KVCC primarily serves commuter students, but offers access to campus activities, student clubs, cultural programs, and community events. On-campus amenities include computer labs, study centers, a library, and spaces for collaborative learning. Residential options are limited, but nearby housing and community engagement opportunities provide a vibrant student life environment.
Transportation
The main campuses are accessible via regional roadways, with parking available for commuters. Public transportation options exist but are limited, so most students commute by personal vehicle. On-campus mobility is supported through accessible facilities, allowing students to navigate classrooms, labs, and student services efficiently.