Fresno City College Market Research Report
Background
Overview
Established in 1910, Fresno City College (FCC) holds the distinction of being California's first community college and the second in the nation. Located in Fresno, California, FCC is a comprehensive learning institution dedicated to providing equitable, quality, and innovative educational programs and support services. The college serves a diverse student body, offering a wide array of associate degrees, certificates, and career technical pathways.
Mission and Vision
FCC's mission is to deliver equity-centered education, fostering dynamic communities of respect and inquiry that encourage student success and lifelong learning. The vision emphasizes a commitment to normalizing a culture of racial equity and anti-racism, aiming to transform lives in the Central Valley and beyond.
Key Strategic Focus
Core Objectives
- Equity and Inclusion: Promoting a culture of anti-racism and belonging.
- Student Success: Enhancing retention and graduation rates through comprehensive support services.
- Community Engagement: Strengthening partnerships with local institutions to facilitate seamless educational pathways.
Specializations and Programs
FCC offers over 120 associate degrees and 96 certificates of achievement across more than 80 career and technical education (CTE) programs. Signature programs include:
- Health Sciences: Dental Hygiene, Respiratory Care, Nursing, Health Information Technology.
- Public Safety: Fire Technology, Police Academy.
- Automotive Technology: General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP).
- Law Pathways: 2+2+3 Law School Pathway.
These programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of the workforce and community.
Technological Integration
FCC employs a range of technologies to enhance educational delivery and administrative efficiency, including:
- Learning Management Systems: Facilitating online and hybrid course offerings.
- Student Information Systems: Streamlining enrollment, grading, and support services.
- Data Analytics: Utilizing tools like Google Analytics to monitor and improve institutional performance.
Financials and Funding
Tuition and Fees
- In-State Tuition (2024): $1,334
- Out-of-State Tuition (2024): $9,454
These rates have seen a 6.34% increase from the previous year.
Revenue and Expenditures
As of October 2024, FCC's annual revenue reached approximately $750 million. In 2022, the college allocated $92.2 million towards salaries, marking a 10% increase from the prior year.
Funding Sources
FCC's funding is derived from a combination of state allocations, tuition fees, and local bonds. Recent infrastructure projects, such as the West Fresno Center and the First Responders Campus, were financed through local bonds, reflecting strong community support.
Pipeline Development
Infrastructure Projects
- West Fresno Center: A 110,000-square-foot satellite campus aimed at serving historically underserved areas, completed in August 2022.
- First Responders Campus: A 40-acre facility housing fire, police, and emergency medical services training, completed in 2024.
- Science Building: An $87 million project near completion, set to open for classes in Spring 2025.
- Child Development Center: A 22,000-square-foot facility opened in October 2024, providing early education and childcare services.
- Parking Structure: An 864-stall parking facility opened in November 2022 to accommodate growing enrollment.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Proprietary Technologies
FCC integrates various technological platforms to enhance educational delivery and administrative operations, including:
- Learning Management Systems: Supporting online and hybrid course offerings.
- Student Information Systems: Streamlining enrollment, grading, and support services.
- Data Analytics: Utilizing tools like Google Analytics to monitor and improve institutional performance.
Leadership Team
Key Executives
- President: Dr. Robert Pimentel
- Background: Appointed in 2022, Dr. Pimentel has a robust background in educational leadership and community engagement.
- Vice President of Instruction: Dr. Ghada Al-Marsi
- Background: Oversees academic programs and faculty development.
- Vice President of Student Services: Lataria Hall
- Background: Focuses on student support services and success initiatives.
Recent Leadership Changes
In June 2024, Dr. Pimentel departed FCC to join the West Hills Community College District. Subsequently, Dr. Kim Armstrong, former President of Clovis Community College, was appointed as the acting president of FCC in July 2024.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The community college sector in California is highly competitive, with institutions striving to offer diverse programs and maintain affordability. FCC's strategic initiatives aim to enhance its market position by expanding program offerings and strengthening community partnerships.
