Compton College
General Information
Overview
Compton College is a public community college located in Compton, California, serving a diverse and dynamic student body. It offers a wide range of academic and vocational programs tailored to support students in achieving either transfer to four-year institutions or entry into meaningful employment. The college emphasizes both student success and workforce readiness: small class sizes and personalized support services — including counseling, tutoring, and career advising — help students navigate their academic and personal goals.
Compton College serves not only Compton but also neighboring areas through the Compton Community College District, making education accessible to tens of thousands of local residents. Over recent years, the institution has revitalized its campus with modern facilities, new classroom buildings, and upgraded student-service centers. After a challenging period of losing its accreditation in the mid-2000s, Compton College rebuilt itself and regained full independence in 2019, marking a significant milestone in its history. The college continues to act as a cornerstone for higher education opportunity in the region, promoting equity, inclusion, and access for historically underserved communities.
Contact Information
Address: 1111 East Artesia Boulevard, Compton, CA 90221
Phone Number: +1 310‑900‑1600
Email Address: admissions or general inquiries via the college main office
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1927 (as part of Compton Union High School) |
| Type | Public Community College |
| Motto | Mission emphasizes “student success” and workforce preparation |
| Accreditation | Compton College regained full accreditation from ACCJC in 2017 |
| District Coverage | Serves Compton, Lynwood, Paramount, Willowbrook, and portions of surrounding cities (~29 sq mi) |
Compton College Rankings
| Region | Recognition / Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | Regionally recognized community college known for strong local impact and transfer pathways |
| Global | Not globally ranked; mission is primarily community and regionally focused |
Compton College Academics
Compton College Faculties / Departments
Compton College’s academic structure is organized into guided‑pathway divisions, including:
- Business & Industrial Studies
- Fine Arts, Communication & Humanities
- Health & Public Services
- Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
Compton College Courses and Programs / Majors
Students at Compton College can choose from:
- Associate of Arts (AA) degrees
- Associate of Science (AS) degrees
- Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT)
- Certificate programs (technical and vocational)
- Career training in fields such as Nursing, Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, Childhood Education, Administration of Justice, and more
Online Learning
Compton College offers online courses and programs. Over 1,400 students are enrolled exclusively in online classes, with additional students taking some courses online. The college’s catalog also includes online or hybrid coursework designed for flexibility.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Benchmark / Requirement |
|---|---|
| High School GPA | Not strictly required; open admission policy for many programs |
| SAT / ACT | Not uniformly required for admission (common for California community colleges) |
| GRE | Not applicable (community college program) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Compton College has a retention rate of around 53% for full-time students. Graduation (completion) rates are more modest, with about 32% graduation rate. These figures reflect both the challenges and opportunities typical for community colleges serving students with varying educational and life backgrounds.
Compton College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Compton College is open and designed to be accessible: there is no strict GPA floor for all programs, and SAT or ACT scores are generally not required. Students may be placed into classes based on assessment or prior coursework.
Compton College Acceptance Rate
| Program Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| All Programs | Very high / Open Admission |
Compton College Application Requirements
To apply, prospective students must complete a college application, typically provide high school diploma or GED, and submit any prior college transcripts if transferring. Counseling and admissions staff help guide applicants through enrollment, course placement, and financial aid, fostering an inclusive process that supports diverse access.
Application Process
- Fill out the online application or paper form
- Submit proof of high school graduation or GED
- Provide any college transcripts if previously enrolled elsewhere
- Participate in placement assessment for English/Math if needed
- Meet with an academic advisor to plan courses
- Apply for financial aid / scholarships
- Register for classes
Compton College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Semester | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | Varies (usually in summer) |
| Spring | Varies (usually early winter) |
| Summer | Varies |
| (Note: As a community college, course registration is often more flexible than at four-year institutions.) |
Essay Prompt
The college does not typically require a formal essay or personal statement for general admission. However, applicants to specialized programs (such as Nursing or vocational fields) may be asked to provide a short statement of purpose or attend an interview as part of program-level selection.
Compton College Scholarships
Compton College offers a variety of scholarships, including need-based awards, merit scholarships, and program-specific funding. In addition, the Oliver W. Conner Promise Program provides fee waivers for eligible first-time students in the Compton, Lynwood, and Paramount areas, significantly reducing financial barriers.
Compton College Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Student Residency | Estimated Tuition / Fees |
|---|---|
| In‑State (California) | Approx. $1,142 per academic year |
| Out-of-State | Approx. $8,822 per year |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Compton College enrolls approximately 4,765 students. Of these, about 1,848 are male and 2,917 are female. The student body includes a large portion of part-time learners (3,778) compared to full-time (987).
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A significant portion of the student population comes from low-income backgrounds, and the institution supports them through financial aid, scholarships, and its Promise Program. Compton College also provides accommodations and student services for learners with disabilities to ensure equitable access to education.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~4,765 |
| Male | ~38.8% |
| Female | ~61.2% |
| Online-Only Students | ~1,435 |
University Diversity
Compton College is deeply committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Its students reflect a rich mosaic of cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, with a substantial portion identifying as Hispanic/Latino or African American. The college’s mission explicitly supports creating an inclusive environment where these diverse perspectives contribute to learning and community. Through programs like the Oliver W. Conner Promise, Compton College addresses financial barriers and fosters upward mobility for historically underserved populations. This commitment to diversity extends beyond the classroom, influencing the college’s strategic priorities and support structures, ultimately preparing students to succeed in a multicultural workforce and global society.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Compton College typically transition into roles that offer meaningful career pathways: working adults may find employment in business, health services, industrial trades, or public service. While earnings vary widely depending on field and role, many associate degree holders can begin working in roles with potential for advancement. With transfer ability to four-year universities, some alumni pursue higher education that further increases earnings. The college’s career services help students pursue both immediate employment and long-term growth, contributing to the economic mobility of its graduates.
Compton College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Compton College employs approximately 290 full- and part-time faculty who teach in its 43 degree and 47 certificate programs. The staff includes academic advisors, career counselors, and administrative professionals dedicated to student success.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty members come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, contributing expertise across humanities, STEM, business, health, and technical fields. They engage in active curriculum development, mentoring, and community outreach. In recent years, the college has modernized many academic programs under the leadership of its president and has leveraged grant funding and bond measures to upgrade facilities, focusing on student-centric learning and equity.
Compton College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Compton College is situated on an 88-acre urban campus serving residents of Compton, Lynwood, Paramount, Willowbrook, and portions of other nearby cities. The campus features modern instructional buildings, new student services facilities, and spaces for learning and collaboration. While the college does not provide on‑campus housing, students benefit from strong community connections and resources to find local housing options.
Transportation
The campus is accessible via major local roadways and public transit, making commuting feasible for many students in the surrounding communities. Parking is available for commuters, and the commuter-friendly environment reflects the college’s role as a vital educational resource for the broader district.