About Hillsborough Community College
Students pay an average net price of $4,929 after financial aid, making HCC one of the most affordable options in the region. About 42% of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the college's mission to serve lower-income families. Graduates earn a median of $40,782 ten years after starting, while carrying just $9,762 in debt. The monthly loan payment of $103 makes this debt manageable for most graduates. With 94% of graduates finding employment, HCC delivers solid returns on a modest investment.
The student body reflects Tampa's diversity, with 39% Hispanic students and 18% Black students. Women make up 59% of enrollment. The Hawks compete in six NJCAA sports with 98 total athletes. A 23:1 student-faculty ratio means larger class sizes, but the college's focus remains on practical skills and seamless transfers to state universities.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 23:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 35.9%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 33.2%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 33.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $40,782
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $56,415 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $47,846 |
| Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $47,260 |
| Fire Protection. | Certificate | $40,896 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $38,289 |
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $31,708 |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $30,771 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $30,119 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $27,457 |
Campus Life
Most Hawks commute from across the Tampa Bay region, creating a diverse mix where 39% are Hispanic and 18% are Black students. With a 23:1 student-faculty ratio, classes feel more like large lectures than intimate seminars. Students typically work part-time jobs alongside their studies, reflected in the 94% employment rate. Weekends often involve Tampa's beaches, downtown nightlife, or professional sports games rather than traditional campus events. The college focuses heavily on career preparation and transfer pathways, attracting students who view HCC as a practical stepping stone. Many complete their associate degrees before transferring to four-year universities or entering the workforce with technical certifications.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 420 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1968
Campus Safety (2023)
1 total reported incident. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalking | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 52°–71°F
- July Avg
- 76°–91°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 49.5"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 40.8%
- Women
- 59.2%
- White
- 30.8%
- Black
- 17.5%
- Hispanic
- 38.7%
- Asian
- 3.5%
- In-State Students
- 97.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 41.6%
Location
- Address
- Tampa, Florida 33606-3584
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $40,782
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $49,446
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $29,600
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 33.2%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $103/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $9,762
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Hillsborough Community College?
As a community college, Hillsborough Community College maintains an open admission policy for students with a high school diploma or equivalent. The college serves nearly 20,000 students across multiple campuses in the Tampa area. This accessibility makes it a popular pathway for students seeking affordable higher education or career training.
How much does Hillsborough Community College cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $4,929 after financial aid, with in-state tuition at just $2,506 per year. About 42% of students receive financial aid, and the same percentage qualify for Pell Grants. The low cost makes HCC one of Florida's most affordable college options.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Hillsborough Community College?
The student-faculty ratio stands at 23:1, which is typical for large community colleges. HCC offers both associate degrees and bachelor's programs as part of Florida's community college evolution. The college has built a reputation for strong career-focused programs in healthcare, business, and technology.
What are the graduation rates at Hillsborough Community College?
The graduation rate reaches 33.2% within six years, reflecting the diverse paths community college students take. Many students attend part-time while working or transfer before completing degrees at HCC. Graduates earn a median salary of $40,782 ten years after enrollment, with relatively low debt loads averaging $9,762.
Does Hillsborough Community College offer on-campus housing?
The college provides housing for 420 students at a cost of $9,662 per year for room and board. Nearly 98% of students come from Florida, with many commuting from the greater Tampa Bay area. The campus serves a diverse population that is 39% Hispanic, 31% White, and 18% Black.
What sports does Hillsborough Community College offer?
The Hawks compete in six NJCAA varsity sports with 98 total athletes receiving $836,604 in athletic scholarships. HCC has developed competitive programs despite being primarily known for academics and workforce development. The athletic programs provide opportunities for students to continue competing while pursuing affordable education.
