About Berkeley City College
The financial picture makes this college particularly attractive to budget-conscious students. In-state students pay just $1,148 in tuition, though the average net price reaches $8,957 when factoring in living expenses. Only 12.58% of students receive federal financial aid, suggesting many families can afford the low sticker price. Graduates earn a median of $41,217 ten years after starting, providing solid returns on a minimal investment. However, the 37.55% loan repayment rate indicates some students struggle with even modest debt loads.
The diverse student body reflects Berkeley's multicultural character, with 28.03% Hispanic students, 23.03% white students, and 18.65% Asian students. Women make up 56.51% of enrollment. The 34:1 student-faculty ratio means large classes are common, requiring self-motivated learners. With a 41.50% six-year graduation rate, the college serves many part-time and working students who take longer to complete their programs.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 34:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 42.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 41.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $41,217
Campus Life
Most students commute to campus, as community colleges typically don't offer housing. The 34:1 student-faculty ratio reflects the practical, no-frills approach of community college education. You'll likely spend time between classes at nearby cafes on Telegraph Avenue or studying in the Berkeley Public Library. The diverse student body, 28% Hispanic, 24% White, 19% Asian, and 17% Black, creates a multicultural atmosphere that mirrors the Bay Area itself.
Weekends often involve exploring Berkeley's famous food scene or catching events at UC Berkeley. Many students work part-time jobs while taking classes, balancing academic goals with real-world responsibilities. The campus culture centers on getting things done rather than traditional college social activities, reflecting the focused mindset of students preparing for transfer or entering the workforce.
- Setting
- City-Midsize
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1974
Campus Safety (2023)
1 total reported incident. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 43°–58°F
- July Avg
- 53°–74°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 26.1"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 43.5%
- Women
- 56.5%
- White
- 23.0%
- Black
- 16.8%
- Hispanic
- 28.0%
- Asian
- 18.7%
- In-State Students
- 80.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 12.6%
Location
- Address
- Berkeley, California 94704
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $41,217
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $51,428
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $29,200
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 37.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements at Berkeley City College?
Berkeley City College maintains an open enrollment policy typical of California community colleges, meaning most students can enroll without traditional admission barriers. The school serves 4,541 students who primarily use it as a stepping stone to four-year universities or for career training programs. About 80% of students come from California, reflecting its role as a local gateway to higher education.
How much does Berkeley City College cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $8,957 annually, though costs vary by family income. Those from families earning under $30,000 pay around $7,645, while higher-income families can expect costs up to $13,384. Only 12.58% of students receive Pell Grants, suggesting many attend part-time or have family incomes above federal aid thresholds.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Berkeley City College?
The student-faculty ratio stands at 34:1, which is high even for community college standards. This reflects the school's focus on accessible education rather than personalized instruction. Students typically navigate larger class sizes as they work toward transfer credits or complete certificate programs.
What are the career outcomes for Berkeley City College graduates?
Graduates earn a median of $41,217 ten years after starting college, which reflects the mix of students who transfer to four-year schools and those who enter the workforce directly. The 41.5% six-year graduation rate is typical for community colleges where many students attend part-time while working. The school's location in the Bay Area provides access to diverse career opportunities in tech and other growing industries.
Where is Berkeley City College located and what is the campus like?
The college sits in Berkeley, a mid-size city known for its progressive culture and proximity to UC Berkeley. Students experience an urban environment with access to the broader Bay Area's cultural and professional opportunities. The diverse student body reflects Berkeley's demographics, with no single racial group forming a majority among the 4,541 enrolled students.
Does Berkeley City College have strong transfer programs?
Berkeley City College was founded in 1974 specifically to serve as a transfer pathway for students heading to four-year universities, particularly within the UC and CSU systems. The school's location near UC Berkeley creates natural pathways for academic transfer, though the 37.55% loan repayment rate suggests some students face financial challenges after leaving. Women make up 56.51% of the student body, slightly higher than the national average for community colleges.
