Forest Park Community College: A Comprehensive Overview
St. Louis Community College-Forest Park, also known as STLCC-Forest Park, stands as a vital public community college within St. Louis, Missouri. As one of the four institutions comprising the St. Louis Community College System, it plays a significant role in the higher education landscape of Greater St. Louis, where it is one of nine community colleges.
Historical Development
The origins of Forest Park Community College trace back to 1967 when classes first commenced. This followed the approval of a $47.2 million bond to finance the construction of the new Junior College District (JCD). In 1976, the JCD took the decision to rename the school to St. Louis Community College-Forest Park.
Former Names
Throughout its history, the institution has been known by different names, reflecting its evolution:
- Forest Park Community College (1967-1976)
Campus and Location
The college is situated in the Forest Park area of St. Louis, conveniently located near Route 40. Its campus provides a setting for academic pursuits and various student activities. The address of the college is F-125600 Oakland Ave. St.
Academics and Programs
STLCC-Forest Park offers a range of academic programs designed to cater to diverse student interests and career goals. These include:
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- Associate's Degrees: The college grants Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), and Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.) degrees.
- Certificates of Proficiency: These are awarded upon completion of a specified one-year course of study.
- Certificates of Specialization: These are awarded upon completion of a specified six-month course of study.
- College transfer degrees, career development and workforce training.
The Jack Miller Hospitality Studies Program
A standout program at Forest Park is the Jack Miller Hospitality Studies Program, which prepares students for careers in the hospitality industry. It encompasses programs in:
- Culinary Arts
- Baking and Pastry Arts
- Hotel Management
Additional Academic Features
- Academic remediation for entering students
- ESL program
- Services for students with learning disabilities
- Honors program
- Distance learning
- Summer sessions for credit
- Part-time degree programs
- Adult/continuing education programs
- Study abroad program
Student Life
Forest Park provides a variety of opportunities for students to engage in campus life and develop their interests. These include a drama-theater group and a student-run newspaper.
Athletics
St. Louis Community College operates as a single entity in athletic competition, meaning that Forest Park students are eligible to participate if they meet the requirements. The St. Louis Community College teams are known as the Archers.
Enrollment and Demographics
The college boasts a diverse student body, with students coming from various backgrounds and age groups.
- Total enrollment: 7,610
- Students come from 11 states and territories, with 4% from out-of-state.
- The student body is diverse, with representation from various racial and ethnic groups: 0.4% Native American, 1% Hispanic, 43% Black, and 4% Asian American or Pacific Islander.
- A significant portion of the student population is composed of adult learners, with 60% being 25 or older.
Faculty and Staff
The college employs a dedicated team of faculty and staff who are committed to providing students with a quality education and supportive learning environment. The student-undergrad faculty ratio is 19:1.
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Administration
- President: Julie Fickas
- Jeff Pittman became chancellor of STLCC in July 2015.
Accreditation and Recognition
St. Louis Community College is accredited, ensuring that it meets established standards of quality in education.
Impact and Community Engagement
St. Louis Community College plays a crucial role in the economic and social well-being of the St. Louis region.
- STLCC’s annual impact on St. Louis is $2.5 billion with 32,371 jobs supported.
- Taxpayers gain $2.80 in added tax revenue and public sector savings.
- Preparing individuals for the workforce is just one way that St. Louis Community College contributes to the community.
Campus Safety and Security
The college prioritizes the safety and security of its students, faculty, and staff. Campus security includes 24-hour patrols.
Library and Technology
The St. Louis Community College Library, located on the Forest Park campus, offers a wide range of resources and services to support student learning and research. The library houses 72,713 books and 511 serials. 369 computers are available on campus for general student use. A campuswide network can be accessed from off-campus.
Admission
St. Louis Community College-Forest Park has open admission except for allied medical programs. Required: high school transcript. Preference given to district residents.
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Costs and Financial Aid
St. Louis Community College-Forest Park strives to make education affordable and accessible to all.
- Application fee: $0.
- Area resident tuition: $72 per credit hour part-time.
- State resident tuition: $93 per credit hour part-time.
- Nonresident tuition: $128 per credit hour part-time.
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