Passaic County Community College: An Overview
Passaic County Community College (PCCC) is a public institution located in Paterson, New Jersey. With a focus on providing accessible education, PCCC offers a range of programs and services to a diverse student body.
General Information
PCCC operates on a semester-based academic calendar. For the academic year 2020-2021, in-district tuition and fees were $5,400, in-state tuition and fees were $7,350, and out-of-state tuition and fees were $9,390. There is no application fee.
Rankings and Recognition
In College Factual's 2025 rankings, PCCC secured the #1,514 spot among the best overall colleges in the United States, based on an analysis of 2,152 colleges and universities nationwide. This represents an improvement from its previous ranking of #1,725. Additionally, PCCC is ranked #38 among the Best Colleges in New Jersey.
Admission and Acceptance
PCCC has an open admissions policy, meaning that applicants who meet the basic requirements are generally accepted. However, it is essential to submit all required materials and ensure the application is complete. In Fall 2023, the total number of entering students was 739.
Student Body
PCCC has a total enrollment of 5,549 students. In Fall 2022, the full-time enrollment was 2,128 students, while the part-time enrollment was 3,421. The age distribution of students is as follows: Under 18 (4%), 18-24 (62%), 25-64 (34%), and Over 65 (0%).
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Faculty
The student-to-faculty ratio at PCCC is 19-to-1. The college boasts a 100% full-time faculty percentage, which is significantly higher than the national average of 47%. This suggests that students have ample access to their instructors.
Retention and Graduation Rates
The freshmen retention rate at PCCC is 67%, which is on par with the national average of 68%. This rate indicates the percentage of first-year, full-time students who continue their studies into their sophomore year.
Diversity
PCCC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus environment.
Cost and Financial Aid
The overall average net price of attending PCCC is $6,855. However, the actual cost can vary significantly depending on a student's financial need. Here's the net price breakdown by income group:
- $0-30K: $6,208
- $30K-48K: $6,412
- $48-75K: $7,695
- $75-110K: $11,345
- $110K +: $12,961
In 2022-2023, 65% of undergraduates at PCCC received grant or scholarship aid, with the average award being $4,927. Additional expenses include books and supplies, which cost approximately $1,600.
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Academics
PCCC offers degrees and certificates in 39 different fields. Popular programs include Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, Business/Commerce, General, and Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. The highest degree offered at Passaic County Community College is an associate degree. The school offers credit for life experiences.
Campus Life and Services
PCCC's campus is located in a suburban setting. The college provides a range of services to support students, including:
- Employment services for students
- Credit for life experiences
- Academic/career counseling service
- Placement services for completers
- On-campus day care for students' children
PCCC is also committed to modernizing its facilities to create an eco-friendly campus environment.
Online Learning
In recent years, PCCC has expanded its online learning options. In 2022-2023, 2,152 students took at least one online class at the college.
Arts and Culture
PCCC hosts art exhibitions at its Broadway Gallery. Lines: An Exhibition of Artworks by Fabian Mira is on display at PCCC’s Broadway Gallery until January 28, 2026. An Artist Reception will be held on Thursday, October 9 from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm. The Gallery is located in downtown Paterson on the Main Campus of PCCC. Enter at Broadway and Memorial Drive.
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