Columbus State Community College Market Research Report

Background

Columbus State Community College (CSCC), established in 1963 as the Columbus Area Technician's School, has evolved into a prominent public community college in Columbus, Ohio. Renamed Columbus Technical Institute in 1965 and adopting its current name in 1987, CSCC has expanded significantly from its initial enrollment of 67 students to over 25,000 students as of 2022. The college's mission is to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to a diverse student body, reflecting the demographics of Central Ohio and serving as a gateway to higher education and workforce development.

Key Strategic Focus

CSCC's strategic priorities encompass:

Student Success: Placing student achievement at the core of its initiatives, recognizing its impact on individual prosperity and regional economic development.

Workforce Development: Collaborating with industry partners to align educational programs with evolving employer needs, thereby enhancing the local workforce.

Civic Engagement: Fostering community involvement and partnerships to address societal challenges and promote civic responsibility.

Financials and Funding

In the 2022 fiscal year, CSCC reported an endowment valued at approximately $6.19 million, marking a 20.1% increase from the previous year. The college's total salary expenditure for the same period was $226 million, with instructional salaries accounting for $22.4 million across 351 employees.

Pipeline Development

CSCC offers over 50 two-year career programs across various fields, including business, health, public service, human service, and engineering technologies. Additionally, the college provides transfer programs for students aiming to complete the first two years of a bachelor's degree before transferring to a four-year university. Notably, in 2023, Ohio Health announced a $25 million donation as part of a $120 million investment in CSCC to increase the number of professionals trained in healthcare-related fields.

Technological Platform and Innovation

CSCC distinguishes itself through several innovative initiatives:

Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP): As part of a national network, the MEP at CSCC serves as a full-service solutions provider for Central Ohio manufacturers, offering consulting, product development, education, and workforce development programs.

College Credit Plus (Dual Credit): This program allows high school students to earn college credit while still enrolled in high school, facilitating a seamless transition to higher education.

Leadership Team

David Harrison: Serving as the President of CSCC, Dr. Harrison has been instrumental in advancing the college's mission and strategic priorities.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The community college sector in Ohio is characterized by a diverse range of institutions offering affordable and accessible education. CSCC's open admissions policy and extensive program offerings position it as a key player in this landscape.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Cleveland State Community College: Offers a variety of associate degree programs and has a student body of approximately 92 students.

Nashville State Community College Foundation: Provides educational programs with a focus on community engagement, serving around 55 students.

Dyersburg State Community College: Offers comprehensive academic programs to its 332 students.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CSCC has established significant partnerships to enhance its educational offerings and community impact:

Central Ohio Compact: A regional strategy led by CSCC, aiming for 65% of Central Ohioans to have a postsecondary degree or certificate by 2025.

Modern Manufacturing Work-Study Program: In collaboration with the National Science Foundation and industry partners like Honda North America, this program provides students with practical experience in the electro-mechanical industry.

Operational Insights

CSCC's strategic initiatives, such as the MEP and College Credit Plus, provide distinct competitive advantages by aligning educational programs with industry needs and facilitating early college credit acquisition. These initiatives enhance the college's market position and appeal to a diverse student demographic.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, CSCC is poised to:

Expand Healthcare Training: Utilizing the $25 million investment from Ohio Health to increase the number of healthcare professionals trained, addressing regional workforce demands.

Enhance Technological Integration: Further develop programs like the MEP to support local manufacturers and integrate emerging technologies into the curriculum.

Strengthen Community Partnerships: Continue collaborations with organizations like the Ohio Association of Food Banks to support transitioning adults and address community needs.