Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC) Market Research Report

Background

Mission: Illinois Valley Community College is dedicated to creating opportunities for students and the community by providing access to affordable, high-quality higher education and lifelong learning.

Vision: IVCC aims to foster personal and professional growth and well-being for students and the community through expanding programs, updated facilities, and educational innovation.

Core Values: The institution upholds the I-CARE principles: Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Equity.

Overview: Established in 1924 as LaSalle-Peru-Oglesby Junior College and renamed Illinois Valley Community College in 1966, IVCC serves a 2,000-square-mile district encompassing parts of LaSalle, Bureau, Putnam, DeKalb, Grundy, Lee, Livingston, and Marshall counties in Illinois. The college's main campus is located in Oglesby, with a satellite campus in Ottawa.

Key Strategic Focus

Academic Programs: IVCC offers a comprehensive range of programs, including Associate in Arts (AA), Associate in Science (AS), and Associate in Engineering Science (AES) degrees for students intending to transfer to four-year institutions. Additionally, the college provides Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees and various certificate programs designed for direct employment in fields such as agriculture, nursing, cybersecurity, dental hygiene, and paramedic services.

Community Engagement: The college emphasizes partnerships with local high schools, enabling students to earn college credits through programs like the Running Start Program at Marquette Academy. IVCC also offers adult education, continuing education, and workforce development programs to meet the needs of the community.

Financials and Funding

Tuition and Fees (2023-2024):

In-District Tuition: $3,858 per year

In-State Tuition: $12,991 per year

Out-of-State Tuition: $13,978 per year

Fees: $232

Books and Supplies: $1,400

Room and Board: $6,750

Financial Aid: Approximately 34% of undergraduate students receive financial aid through grants, with an average net price of $5,969 after aid.

Pipeline Development

Program Expansion: IVCC has recently introduced new programs in dental hygiene, cybersecurity, medical assistant, and paramedic services to meet evolving workforce demands. The college has also revived its agriculture program, reflecting its commitment to addressing regional industry needs.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Facilities and Resources: The college has invested in modernizing its facilities, including a $1 million renovation of chemistry and biology labs, construction of a Student Center and Cyber Café, and the opening of the Ottawa Center satellite campus in 2010.

Leadership Team

President: Dr. Tracy Morris assumed the role of IVCC's 11th president on July 1, 2023. Dr. Morris is the first IVCC graduate to serve as president and has held various positions at the college, including Associate Vice President for Student Services, Director of Admissions and Records, and Counselor/Orientation Coordinator. She also served as Vice President for Student Services at Illinois Central College and Compliance Officer at Joliet Junior College.

Leadership Changes

Dr. Tracy Morris succeeded Dr. Jerry Corcoran, who retired in 2023 after serving as president since 2008.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics: IVCC operates within the Illinois Community College System, which comprises 39 public community college districts and 48 colleges. The system serves a diverse student population and offers a wide range of programs to meet regional educational and workforce needs.

Competitor Analysis:

Black Hawk College: Located in Moline, Illinois, Black Hawk College offers similar associate degree and certificate programs. It has a larger student enrollment and multiple campuses, providing a broad range of academic and vocational programs.

Southwestern Illinois College: With campuses in Belleville, Granite City, and Red Bud, this institution offers a variety of associate degrees and certificates, emphasizing workforce development and community education.

Prairie State College: Located in Chicago Heights, Illinois, Prairie State College provides a range of academic programs and is known for its strong transfer agreements with four-year institutions.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

High School Partnerships: IVCC collaborates with 20 high schools within its district to offer dual credit and early college programs, enabling high school students to earn college credits.

Community Engagement: The college engages with local businesses and organizations to develop programs that align with regional workforce needs, such as the revival of the agriculture program and the introduction of new healthcare-related programs.

Operational Insights

Enrollment and Demographics: As of 2022, IVCC enrolled 2,371 students, with a full-time enrollment of 970 and a part-time enrollment of 1,401. The student body is predominantly White (71.6%), with Hispanic or Latino students comprising 17.9%.

Student Outcomes: The college has a graduation rate of 42%, with graduates earning a median salary of $30,700 six years after graduation.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Program Development: IVCC plans to continue expanding its program offerings in response to regional workforce demands, particularly in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.

Facility Enhancements: Ongoing investments in campus facilities and technology aim to enhance the learning environment and support student success.

Community Engagement: Strengthening partnerships with local industries and educational institutions will remain a priority to ensure that IVCC's programs align with community needs and provide pathways to employment and further education.