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Colleges / WA / Bellingham
Whatcom Community College logo

Whatcom Community College

Public Bellingham, WA · Urban · Far West · 80% data reported · Agent Insights
36%
Graduation Rate
$44,092
Earnings (10yr)
$11,795
Net Price
2,378
Enrollment

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Overview

Whatcom Community College is an ideal choice for students seeking a practical, community-focused education. With around 2,378 enrolled students, it offers a supportive environment where individuals can thrive in top programs like Humanities, Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Computer Science & IT, and Education. What stands out is the college's emphasis on accessible learning, making it a good fit for those looking to gain skills that directly translate into the workforce.

Looking at life after graduation, the average earnings for graduates 10 years post-degree is $44,092. This figure provides a clear indication of the potential return on investment for students. With a graduation rate of 36%, it's essential to note that while not every student may complete their program, those who do can expect meaningful opportunities in various fields. The affordability factor is also significant, as the net price after financial aid stands at $11,795, making it a solid option for students mindful of their budget.

The financial landscape for students at Whatcom is manageable, with a median debt of $10,643 after graduation. This lower debt load can be a significant advantage, allowing graduates to enter the workforce with less financial pressure. The college attracts individuals who are focused on practical skills and career readiness. It's a place where students can cultivate their interests, gain valuable experience, and step confidently into their futures.

Rankings

How Whatcom Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation36%Earnings 10yr$44KNet Price$12KMedian Debt$11KPell Grant Rate21%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$10K$0-30K$10K$30-48K$12K$48-75K$19K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%921.3%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%1637.6%MOBILITY150.88%

Cost & Financial Aid

$5,115
In-State Tuition
$11,037
Out-of-State
$11,795
Avg Net Price
$10,643
Median Debt
21%
Pell Grant Rate
5%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$9,814
Family Income $0–$30K
$10,010
Family Income $30K–$48K
$12,411
Family Income $48K–$75K
$19,441
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$38,429
6 Years After Entry
$41,372
8 Years
$44,092
10 Years
0.24x
Debt-to-Earnings
54%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$38,429 6yr $41,372 8yr $44,092 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

150.88%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
1637.6%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
921.3%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$78,400
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.23
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.03
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
11.2%
Volunteering Rate
0.97
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Full-Time Faculty 100%
Faculty Salary (mo) $10,799
Diversity Index 0.73
First-Gen Students 41%

Top Programs

Humanities 45%
Health Professions 17%
Business & Marketing 15%
Computer Science & IT 10%
Education 6%
Engineering 1%
Legal Studies 1%
Physical Sciences 1%