Blue Ridge CC vs Isothermal Community College

Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in North Carolina, offer diverse educational opportunities to students seeking a solid foundation for their academic and professional pursuits. While they share a commitment to providing quality education, they also possess distinct characteristics that set them apart. Blue Ridge boasts a higher acceptance rate, welcoming a broader range of students, while Isothermal maintains a slightly smaller student body, fostering a more intimate learning environment. Both institutions offer a variety of popular majors, including nursing, business, and engineering, catering to students with diverse interests. As you explore the comprehensive comparison table below, you'll discover further insights into the unique strengths and offerings of each college, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your educational aspirations and goals.
Blue Ridge Community College logo

Blue Ridge Community College

Isothermal Community College logo

Isothermal Community College

Overview

Location Weyers Cave, Virginia Spindale, North Carolina
Campus setting Rural: Fringe Town: Distant
College type 2 year 2 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate Undergraduate
Students retention rate 61.0% 59.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate Open Admission Open Admission
Application fees
SAT range N/A N/A
ACT range N/A N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants
Total number of admissions given out
Admitted students who chose to enroll
Yield rate
Test scores (SAT/ACT) Not required Not required
High school GPA N/A N/A
Recommendation letters N/A N/A
High school transcript N/A N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) N/A N/A

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $23,995

Out of state: $29,998
In state: $20,548

Out of state: $25,156
Average net price $9,182 $6,332
Tuition
In state: $4,620

Out of state: $9,918
In state: $1,824

Out of state: $6,432
Room & board
Available payment plans
  • Prepaid tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

61.0%
Average amount $5,895
93.0%
Average amount $4,976
Students receiving federal student loan 8.0%
Average amount $4,748
Students taking out private loans 2.0%
Average amount $5,334

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 3,386
Men 38.4% Women 61.6%
1,913
Men 35.8% Women 64.2%
Graduate students N/A N/A
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 1.0% 0.4%
International students 0.9% 0.5%
Campus local/setting Rural: Fringe Town: Distant
Dormitory capacity N/A N/A
First year students are required to live on campus? N/A N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Virginia Pennsylvania Florida Maryland Nevada North Carolina South Carolina

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Liberal Arts
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Agriculture
  • Automotive Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Engineering Technologies
  • Construction Trades
Students to faculty ratio 20:1 12:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 32.6% 40.2%
Dropout rate 52.1% 39.4%
Transferred out 7.1% 13.7%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,606
  • Year 2: $49,883
  • Year 3: $47,113
Ground Transportation (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $39,009
  • Year 3: $36,462
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $33,993
  • Year 3: $36,082
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $32,795
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $35,140
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $29,685
  • Year 3: $33,735
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $18,766
  • Year 2: $22,485
  • Year 3: $31,560
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $28,357
  • Year 2: $28,443
  • Year 3: $30,949
Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $34,562
  • Year 3: N/A
Biological and Physical Sciences (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $30,467
  • Year 2: $26,739
  • Year 3: N/A
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $25,194
  • Year 3: N/A
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,661
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $58,470
Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $35,060
  • Year 3: $36,590
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $19,827
  • Year 2: $18,498
  • Year 3: $22,654
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $29,461
  • Year 3: N/A
Electrical and Power Transmission Installers (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $47,260
  • Year 3: N/A
Health and Medical Administrative Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $16,663
  • Year 3: N/A
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $29,685
  • Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College?

    Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College both offer excellent educational opportunities, but they differ in location, size, and some program offerings. Blue Ridge Community College is located in Flat Rock, NC, serving Henderson and Transylvania counties, while Isothermal Community College is located in Spindale, NC, primarily serving Rutherford and Polk counties. Blue Ridge generally has a larger student body and a broader range of programs, while Isothermal is known for its close-knit community and specialized programs like its Polysomnography program.

  • Where are Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College located?

    Blue Ridge Community College's main campus is located in Flat Rock, North Carolina. Isothermal Community College is located in Spindale, North Carolina. Consider which location is more convenient for your commute and access to local resources.

  • Which college is larger, Blue Ridge Community College or Isothermal Community College?

    Blue Ridge Community College generally has a larger student population compared to Isothermal Community College. If you prefer a larger campus environment with more students, Blue Ridge might be a better fit. If you prefer a smaller, more intimate setting, Isothermal could be ideal.

  • Do Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College offer the same academic programs?

    While both colleges offer core programs like Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and various vocational programs, there are differences in specialized offerings. Blue Ridge Community College may have a wider array of programs due to its larger size. Isothermal Community College is known for specific programs like its Polysomnography program. It's best to check each college's website for the most up-to-date program listings and ensure they offer the specific program you're interested in.

  • How do the tuition costs compare between Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College?

    Tuition rates at North Carolina community colleges are generally very similar. However, it's always best to check the official websites of both Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College for the most current tuition and fees information. Also, consider potential differences in program-specific fees.

  • What student support services are available at Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College?

    Both Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College offer a range of student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, disability services, and financial aid assistance. The specific services and resources available may vary slightly, so it's worth exploring the student services sections of each college's website to see which best aligns with your needs.

  • What is the campus culture like at Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College?

    While both colleges foster a supportive learning environment, Blue Ridge Community College, being larger, may offer a more diverse range of clubs and activities. Isothermal Community College, with its smaller size, often has a stronger sense of community and closer relationships between students and faculty. Consider attending campus events or talking to current students to get a better feel for the campus culture at each institution.

  • How do I apply to Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College?

    The application process for both colleges is typically straightforward and involves submitting an online application, providing transcripts, and potentially taking placement tests. Visit the admissions sections of the Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College websites for detailed instructions and application deadlines.

  • Do Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College offer online courses?

    Yes, both Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College offer a variety of online courses, providing flexibility for students who prefer to learn remotely. Check each college's website for a list of available online courses and program options.

  • Which college is better for me, Blue Ridge Community College or Isothermal Community College?

    The best college for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as location, program offerings, campus size, campus culture, and available student support services. Research both Blue Ridge Community College and Isothermal Community College thoroughly, visit the campuses if possible, and talk to current students or faculty to make an informed decision.

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