About College of the Sequoias
The financial picture makes sense for most families. Students pay just $29 on average after financial aid, making this one of the most affordable college options anywhere. About 35% receive Pell Grants, reflecting the working-class student body. Graduates earn a median of $39,092 ten years after starting, with typical debt loads of only $4,500. Monthly loan payments average just $48, making the investment manageable even for modest earners.
The student body reflects the diverse Central Valley community. Hispanic students make up 72% of enrollment, while 57% are women. The Giants compete in 17 varsity sports with 362 total athletes. Nearly 90% of graduates find employment, showing strong local job market connections. With 99.74% of students coming from California, this college stays true to its mission of serving the region's educational needs.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 28:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 48.7%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 32.8%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $39,092
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $79,284 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $55,512 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $15,429 |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Associate | $14,935 |
Campus Life
Visalia's Mediterranean climate means students pack shorts and t-shirts year-round, with temperatures rarely requiring heavy winter gear. As a community college, nearly all students commute from home since dormitories don't exist. The 28:1 student-faculty ratio means large lecture halls are common, especially in core classes. Weekends often revolve around local activities rather than campus events, with many students working part-time jobs that connect to the region's farming and food processing industries. The Giants compete independently in athletics, giving students a taste of college sports without the pressure of major conference competition.
- Setting
- City-Midsize
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Founded
- 1926
Campus Safety (2023)
7 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 38°–55°F
- July Avg
- 66°–93°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 10.3"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.1"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 43.9%
- Women
- 56.1%
- White
- 17.6%
- Black
- 1.8%
- Hispanic
- 72.1%
- Asian
- 3.4%
- In-State Students
- 99.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 35.2%
Location
- Address
- Visalia, California 93277-2214
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $39,092
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $42,592
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $25,900
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 44.2%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $48/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $4,500
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at College of the Sequoias?
College of the Sequoias follows an open admission policy typical of California community colleges, meaning nearly all applicants are accepted. With 10,752 students enrolled, the college serves as an accessible entry point for higher education in the Central Valley. Students can begin their academic journey here regardless of high school performance.
How much does College of the Sequoias cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of just $29 after financial aid, making this one of the most affordable colleges in California. With in-state tuition at $1,394 and 35% of students receiving federal Pell Grants, the college prioritizes accessibility for low-income families. Even middle-class families earning $48-75K pay only $1,785 net.
What is the student-faculty ratio at College of the Sequoias?
The student-faculty ratio is 28:1, reflecting the large class sizes common at community colleges. Despite this ratio, the college offers comprehensive academic programs and transfer pathways to four-year universities. Students benefit from lower costs while completing general education requirements and career training programs.
What are the employment outcomes for College of the Sequoias graduates?
Graduates achieve an 89% employment rate, demonstrating strong job market preparation. The median earnings one year after graduation are $31,441, rising to $42,592 after five years. With median debt of only $4,500, graduates enter the workforce with minimal financial burden compared to four-year college attendees.
Where is College of the Sequoias located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Visalia, a mid-size city in California's Central Valley known for agriculture and proximity to Sequoia National Park. With 56% women and 72% Hispanic students, the college reflects the diverse agricultural community it serves. The Giants compete in 17 varsity sports with 362 total athletes, though the program offers no athletic scholarships.
Does College of the Sequoias have a good graduation rate?
The six-year graduation rate is 33%, which aligns with national community college averages where many students transfer before completing degrees. Founded in 1926, the college has long served as a stepping stone for students planning to transfer to four-year universities. Nearly 100% of students are California residents, emphasizing the college's role in serving local communities.
