Anoka-Hennepin Community College: An Overview

Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC) stands as a public, two-year institution with campuses in Cambridge and Coon Rapids, Minnesota. As a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, ARCC provides accessible and affordable higher education opportunities.

Affordable Tuition and Diverse Program Options

ARCC prides itself on offering the lowest tuition rate in the state. The in-state tuition is $5,682, which is the same as the out-of-state tuition. This commitment to affordability extends to a wide array of academic programs, including 20 certificate and diploma programs, 12 transfer pathways, and nearly 40 associate’s degree programs. This allows students to tailor their education to their specific goals, whether it's immediate career entry or further academic pursuits.

Bachelor's Degree Partnership Program

Recognizing the diverse needs of its student body, ARCC facilitates access to bachelor’s and master’s degree programs through the Bachelor’s Degree Partnership Program. This initiative brings programs from other colleges and universities directly to ARCC’s campus locations, providing students with a seamless pathway to advanced degrees without needing to relocate.

A Historical Perspective

Founded in 1965, Anoka-Ramsey Community College has a rich history of serving the educational needs of the region. Starting with 600 students in a wing of Centennial High School in Circle Pines, the college has experienced substantial growth. In 1967, the Coon Rapids Campus was established on approximately 103 acres (42 ha). The Cambridge Campus followed in 1978, demonstrating consistent growth in both enrollment and facilities.

Campus Locations and Accessibility

The Anoka-Ramsey Community College Coon Rapids Campus is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, twenty miles (32 km) north of downtown Minneapolis at 11200 Mississippi Blvd. NW, in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. The Cambridge Campus is located just off west Highway 95 on the Rum River at 300 Spirit River Dr. These locations offer convenient access for students from various communities.

Read also: Affording Anoka-Ramsey: A Guide

Academic Environment

The school utilizes a semester-based academic year. The student-faculty ratio is 27-to-1. The highest degree offered at Anoka-Ramsey Community College is an associate degree. The school has an open admissions policy and offers credit for life experiences.

Focus on Professional Development

Beyond traditional academic programs, Anoka-Ramsey Community College is committed to providing professional development and continuing education programs for working adults. This focus ensures that individuals can enhance their skills and advance their careers.

Accreditation

The associate degree Registered Nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, ensuring high standards of quality and preparing graduates for successful careers in healthcare.

Admissions and Enrollment

Anoka-Ramsey Community College maintains an open admissions policy, making higher education accessible to a wide range of students. In the fall of 2023, the total number of entering students was 3,874. The college also offers credit for life experiences, recognizing the value of prior learning.

Key Admission Statistics

Institution Type: Not for Profit
Coed: Yes
Need Aware: This school may consider an applicant’s financial situation when deciding admission
Level of Institution: 2 Year
Campus Setting: Suburb or town
Transfer Students Admitted: Yes
Admissions Requirements: Transcript, SAT Subject Tests (Yes), AP Course Credit (Yes), Dual Enrollment (Yes)

Student Life

Anoka-Ramsey Community College offers a variety of resources and services to support student success. These include academic/career counseling services and placement services for completers. While on-campus day care for students' children is not available, the college strives to create a supportive environment for all students.

Key Campus Statistics

Percent of First Generation Students: 34%
LGBTQIA Student Resource Groups: No
On Campus Women's Center: No
Cultural Student Resource Groups: No
On-campus living required of freshman: No
Disability Housing Available: Yes

Financial Aid and Affordability

Anoka-Ramsey Community College is dedicated to making education affordable for all students. In addition to low tuition rates, the college offers various financial aid options, including grants and loans.

Tuition, Cost & Aid

In-State Tuition: $5,682
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,682
Average Net Price: $11,890

Financial Aid Statistics

65 percent of undergraduates receive grant or scholarship aid.
The average scholarship or grant award is $3,061.
Students receiving federal loans: Yes
Average Federal Loans Per Year: $4,828
Average Other Loans Per Year: $7,419

Academic Programs and Majors

Students can earn degrees and certificates in 36 different fields. Popular programs include: Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, and Business/Commerce, General.

Campus Safety

Anoka-Ramsey Community College prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students and staff. While 24-HR security patrol is not available, the campus provides emergency phones and may offer 24-HR escort safety rides and mobile campus emergency alerts.

Primary Campus Safety Measures

Campus emergency phones: Yes
24-HR escort safety rides: Yes (possibly)
Mobile campus emergency alert: Yes (possibly)

Student Demographics

The student body at Anoka-Ramsey Community College is diverse, representing a range of ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds.

Student Life (Fall 2022)

Ethnicity Distribution: Varies

Read also: Community Education in Anoka
Gender Distribution: Varies
Age Distribution:
- Under 18: Varies
- 18-24: Varies
- 25-64: Varies
- Over 65: Varies

Outcomes and Post-Graduation Success

Anoka-Ramsey Community College is committed to student success beyond graduation. The college provides employment services for students and placement services for completers.

Post Grad Stats

Average Salary 6 years after graduation: Varies
Average Debt at Graduation: Varies
Loan Default Rate: Varies
Median Monthly Loan Payment: Varies

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