Gateway Community College (Phoenix) | Tuition | Admission

General Information

Reviews

Gateway Community College in Phoenix is recognized for its strong commitment to accessible higher education and community-focused learning. Student reviews highlight the college’s supportive environment, where faculty and staff prioritize student success and personal development. Many students commend the college for its flexible scheduling, which allows working adults, part-time students, and non-traditional learners to balance school with professional and personal commitments. The small class sizes foster individualized attention and strong relationships between instructors and students, promoting a positive learning experience.

Students appreciate the variety of programs and practical learning opportunities, particularly in fields like business, healthcare, information technology, and technical trades. The college also offers guidance through tutoring, career counseling, and transfer support for students planning to continue their education at four-year institutions. Some students note challenges with limited campus resources compared to larger universities, but the hands-on approach and accessibility often outweigh these concerns. Alumni generally express satisfaction with the education they received, emphasizing that the practical skills, academic support, and career preparation provided at Gateway Community College have helped them advance in their professional lives or successfully transfer to bachelor’s programs.

Contact Information

Address: 108 N 40th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone Number: (602) 286-8000
Email Address: admissions@gatewaycc.edu

School Facts

ItemDetail
Institution NameGateway Community College (Phoenix)
TypePublic community college
Founded1968
Campus SettingUrban
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (HLC)
Motto“Empowering Students, Building Community”
Academic OfferingsAssociate degrees, certificates, vocational training, continuing education

Gateway Community College Rankings

Ranking TypeStanding / Note
National (USA)Ranked among top community colleges in Arizona for accessibility and transfer programs
Global RankingsNot ranked globally; primarily serves local and regional students

Gateway Community College Academics

Faculties / Departments

  • Arts and Humanities
  • Business and Public Administration
  • Health Sciences and Nursing
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
  • Social Sciences and Education
  • Technical Trades and Workforce Development
  • Continuing Education and Professional Development

Courses Offered and Programs / Majors

  • Associate of Arts (AA)
  • Associate of Science (AS)
  • Nursing and Allied Health Programs
  • Business Administration and Management
  • Information Technology and Computer Science
  • Education and Teacher Preparation
  • Technical Trades (Welding, Automotive, HVAC)
  • Certificate Programs in specialized areas such as healthcare and IT

Online Learning

Gateway Community College provides a robust online learning platform, offering fully online courses and hybrid programs. This flexibility is designed to support adult learners, working students, and those unable to attend campus daily. Online courses include video lectures, discussion boards, virtual labs, and interactive assessments to ensure comprehensive engagement and learning outcomes comparable to in-person classes.

Degrees

The college offers associate degrees in arts, sciences, business, health sciences, and applied technical fields. The programs are structured to either provide career-ready skills or serve as a foundation for transferring to four-year institutions.

Summer School

Gateway Community College operates a summer session that enables students to accelerate degree completion, catch up on courses, or take specialized electives. Summer courses include both in-person and online options, designed to maintain educational quality and student engagement.

Average Test Scores

Test / MetricRequirement
SATOptional
ACTOptional
GRENot required
High School GPA2.0 minimum recommended for admissions

Retention and Graduation Rates

Retention rates at Gateway Community College range from 60% to 75%, reflecting strong student support and engagement strategies. Graduation rates vary by program but generally fall between 40% and 55%, consistent with community college trends where students often transfer before completing a degree.

Gateway Community College Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

Admissions focus on accessibility, requiring a minimum high school GPA of 2.0 for most programs. Standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT are optional, aligning with the college’s open-admissions philosophy. This allows a diverse student population, including adult learners and career changers, to enroll and pursue higher education without excessive barriers.

Gateway Community College Acceptance Rate

MetricValue
Acceptance RateApproximately 95%

Gateway Community College Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a completed application form, high school diploma or GED, and any required documentation for specific programs such as nursing or healthcare. Students may also need to meet prerequisite course requirements depending on their chosen field of study. The admissions office provides guidance on course selection, financial aid, and transfer pathways, ensuring students have a clear educational plan that aligns with career or transfer goals.

Enrollment

Gateway Community College serves approximately 10,000 students annually, including full-time and part-time learners. The student body includes a mix of recent high school graduates, adult learners, and non-traditional students seeking career advancement or foundational education for further studies.

Application Process

  • Complete online or paper application
  • Submit high school transcript or GED documentation
  • Attend orientation session
  • Complete financial aid application if applicable
  • Register for classes and select academic advisor
  • Participate in placement testing for certain programs

Gateway Community College Application Deadlines / Important Dates

TermDeadline
Rolling AdmissionsAccepted year-round
Summer TermMay 15 recommended
Fall TermAugust 1 recommended
Spring TermJanuary 5 recommended

Essay Prompt

No essay is required for general admission; however, specific programs such as healthcare or selective technical tracks may request a personal statement.

Gateway Community College Scholarships

The college offers merit-based and need-based scholarships, including program-specific awards for high-achieving students in areas such as nursing, business, and STEM. Students are encouraged to apply for federal and state financial aid, as well as institutional scholarships.

Gateway Community College Tuition Fees

Program / DegreeEstimated Cost
In-State Tuition per Credit$85–$120
Out-of-State Tuition per Credit$300–$350
Certificate Programs$1,500–$4,000
Additional FeesLab fees, course materials, technology fees

Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

The student population is approximately 55% female and 45% male. Age distribution includes traditional students aged 18–24, and a significant proportion of adult learners aged 25–45 or older. Ethnic diversity includes approximately 45% Hispanic/Latino, 25% White, 15% African American, 10% Asian, and 5% other ethnicities, reflecting the Phoenix metropolitan area’s diverse population.

Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities

The college provides support services for low-income students, including financial aid, scholarships, and emergency grants. Students with disabilities are accommodated with assistive technology, academic support, and modified course delivery when necessary.

Student Body

CategoryValue
Total Enrollment10,000
Full-Time Students6,500
Part-Time Students3,500
International Students250
Gender Distribution55% female, 45% male

University Diversity

Gateway Community College emphasizes creating an inclusive and diverse learning environment. Programs encourage cross-cultural engagement, collaborative learning, and community involvement. The campus celebrates multicultural events, offers resources for underrepresented students, and ensures equitable access to educational opportunities. Students benefit from exposure to peers of different backgrounds and experiences, preparing them for culturally competent professional roles. Diversity initiatives extend to curriculum design, faculty recruitment, and student support services, fostering an environment of respect, inclusion, and understanding.

Average Earnings

Graduates from Gateway Community College programs report varied earning potential depending on their field of study. Entry-level positions in healthcare, technical trades, and business fields range from $30,000 to $45,000 annually, with potential increases as experience and certifications grow. Graduates who transfer to four-year institutions often pursue higher-paying careers and advanced professional roles. The college’s emphasis on applied skills and workforce readiness helps ensure students enter the job market with a competitive edge.

Graduation Rate

Graduation rates at Gateway Community College range between 40% and 55%, consistent with community college norms where students may transfer before completing degrees. Support services like tutoring, academic advising, and mentoring aim to improve retention and completion outcomes.

Gateway Community College Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

Faculty members are experienced educators and professionals with expertise in their respective disciplines. Administrative staff provide guidance on enrollment, academic advising, and career services, ensuring students have the resources needed to succeed.

Faculty Profiles

Faculty members hold advanced degrees and professional certifications relevant to their teaching areas. They actively engage in curriculum development, hands-on training, and mentorship to prepare students for career success or transfer to four-year programs. Faculty contribute real-world knowledge, professional insights, and guidance for certification exams.

Gateway Community College Campus and Student Life

Campus Life / Housing

The college is located in an urban setting, offering modern classrooms, labs, and student facilities. Housing is off-campus, with nearby rental options for students. Campus life emphasizes learning, community engagement, and professional development, including workshops, student clubs, and career-oriented activities.

Transportation

The campus is accessible via major roads and public transportation, including buses and light rail connections. Ample parking is available, and flexible scheduling supports students balancing work and school commitments.

Job Openings

The college provides career services, job placement support, and internship opportunities. Students receive assistance with resumes, interview preparation, and connections to local employers in healthcare, business, technical trades, and other workforce areas.