About Cleveland State Community College
The financial picture makes sense for working families. Students typically pay around $6,183 per year after financial aid, making this one of the more affordable college options in the state. Graduates earn a median of $36,671 ten years after starting, while carrying just $7,954 in debt. That modest debt burden translates to monthly payments of only $84, making the investment manageable for most graduates. The employment rate hits 94.4%, showing that employers value the practical skills students develop here.
The student body leans female at 56%, reflecting trends in community college enrollment nationwide. The Cougars field six varsity sports teams with 106 total athletes competing in NJCAA divisions. However, only 29% of students complete their programs within six years, which is typical for community colleges where many students attend part-time while working. The 19:1 student-faculty ratio ensures decent access to instructors despite the college's budget-conscious approach.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 19:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 47.7%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 29.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $36,671
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $48,522 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $38,649 |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $34,526 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $31,133 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $23,456 |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $23,233 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,417 |
Campus Life
Most students commute to campus since this is a two-year college without traditional dorms. The 56% female student body often gathers in the student center between classes, and many work part-time jobs in Cleveland's small business district. Weekends typically involve trips to Chattanooga for entertainment or outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The Cougars field six varsity sports with 106 total athletes, though games draw modest crowds from the commuter population. Students need winter coats for Tennessee's chilly months but can expect mild springs and warm summers. The campus culture revolves around getting your degree efficiently while keeping costs low, with an average net price of $6,183.
- Setting
- City-Small
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1967
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 27°–49°F
- July Avg
- 66°–88°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 53.8"
- Annual Snowfall
- -776.7"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 44.0%
- Women
- 56.0%
- White
- 77.7%
- Black
- 7.0%
- Hispanic
- 10.0%
- Asian
- 1.5%
- In-State Students
- 97.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 29.0%
Location
- Address
- Cleveland, Tennessee 37312
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $36,671
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $43,313
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $26,500
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 36.4%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $84/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $7,954
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements at Cleveland State Community College?
Cleveland State follows an open enrollment policy typical of Tennessee community colleges, welcoming students who have completed high school or earned a GED. The college serves 1,967 students and draws nearly 97% of its enrollment from in-state. This accessibility makes it a popular stepping stone for local students beginning their college journey.
How much does Cleveland State Community College cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $6,183 annually, with costs varying by family income from $5,338 for low-income families to $10,168 for high earners. In-state tuition starts at $4,530, making it an affordable option in Tennessee's community college system. About 32% of students receive institutional grants averaging $5,924.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Cleveland State Community College?
The college maintains a 19:1 student-faculty ratio, which is typical for community colleges but allows for reasonable class sizes. Cleveland State operates on a semester system and focuses on career-oriented programs and transfer pathways. The college has built a reputation for practical education that prepares students for immediate employment or four-year transfer.
What are the job prospects for Cleveland State Community College graduates?
Graduates achieve a 94.4% employment rate, demonstrating strong connections to local employers in the Cleveland area. Median earnings reach $36,671 ten years after graduation, reflecting the college's focus on practical skills training. The low median debt of $7,954 means graduates enter the workforce without overwhelming financial burdens.
Where is Cleveland State Community College located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Cleveland, Tennessee, a small city setting that provides a close-knit community atmosphere. With 56% women and 44% men, the student body of 1,967 creates an intimate learning environment. The Cougars compete in NJCAA athletics with six varsity sports and 106 total athletes, offering $375,846 in athletic scholarships.
Does Cleveland State Community College have a good graduation rate?
The college reports a 29% six-year graduation rate, which reflects the unique challenges community college students face including part-time enrollment and work obligations. Many students transfer before completing their associate degree or take longer due to life circumstances. The college's strength lies in providing flexible pathways for working adults and transfer students rather than traditional completion metrics.
