Highline Community College is nationally and internationally recognized as a premier community college, a reputation earned through the development of an institutional culture that values innovation, globalization of curriculum, and community participation. It is one of 34 community and technical colleges in the state of Washington.
School Highlights
Highline College serves 7,048 students (45% of students are full-time).
The college's student:teacher ratio of 13:1 is lower than the state community college average of 15:1.
Minority enrollment is 77% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is more than the state average of 56%.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
Enrollment: 7,048 students
In-state tuition: $4,000
Out-state tuition: $4,401
Student:teacher ratio: 13:1
Minority enrollment: 77%
Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
The student population of Highline College has grown by 11% over five years.
The student:teacher ratio of 13:1 has increased from 12:1 over five years.
The Highline College diversity score of 0.83 is more than the state average of 0.75. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five years.
Total Enrollment
7,048 students
4,711 students
Student : Teacher Ratio
13:1
15:1
# Full-Time Students
3,161 students
2,028 students
# Part-Time Students
3,887 students
3,179 students
# Enrollment Undergraduate
704 students
494 students
# Full-Time Undergraduate Students
3,161 students
2,028 students
# Part-Time Undergraduate Students
3,887 students
3,179 students
Total Dormitory Capacity
160 students
140 students
% American Indian/Alaskan
n/a
1%
% Asian
19%
10%
% Hispanic
19%
17%
% Black
20%
7%
% White
23%
44%
% Hawaiian
1%
1%
% Two or more races
8%
8%
% Non Resident races
5%
3%
% Unknown races
5%
9%
Diversity Score
0.83
0.75
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in less than 4 years)
32%
30%
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in 4 years or more than 4 years)
0.4005%
0.3584%
Average Graduate Earnings (10 Years)
$38,300
$36,400
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
The public in-state tuition of $4,000 is less than the state average of $4,105. The in-state tuition has declined by 5% over four years.
The public out-state tuition of $4,401 is less than the state average of $7,359. The out-state tuition has declined by 6% over four years.
In-State Tuition Fees
$4,000
$4,105
Out-State Tuition Fees
$4,401
$7,359
Tuition Notes
3 qtrs, 15 credits
% Students Receiving Some Financial Aid
35%
58%
Median Debt for Graduates
$10,486
$11,794
Median Debt for Dropouts
$5,500
$6,192
Acceptance Rate
n/a
99%
Source: 2024 (or latest year available) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) , School Administrators
President Obama recently introduced a plan to deliver free Community College tuition to all Americans across the country. Is it the right call?In this story, we will not attempt to make a judgment call on whether free Community College is right or wrong for the United States. Instead, we paneled a few experts in education and economics to get their take on the issue. We’re showing both sides of the coin, and letting readers decide on their own.
We offer straightforward advice on identifying transferable skills, exploring job opportunities, leveraging community resources, and embracing lifelong learning. With relatable examples and encouragement, this guide aims to empower readers to navigate the job market confidently and successfully transition into new careers.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
Enrollment: 7,048 students
In-state tuition: $4,000
Out-state tuition: $4,401
Student:teacher ratio: 13:1
Minority enrollment: 77%
Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)
