Morton College Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Morton College, established in 1924, is the second-oldest community college in Illinois. Located in Cicero, Illinois, it serves the educational needs of communities including Berwyn, Cicero, Forest View, Lyons, McCook, Stickney, and other near-western suburbs. The college offers a range of programs, including university transfer, career, continuing education, and community service programs.

Mission and Vision

Morton College's mission is to enhance the quality of life of its diverse community through exemplary teaching and learning opportunities, community service, and lifelong learning. The vision is to increase fall-to-fall full-time student persistence rates to 80% by 2024.

Accreditation

The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and recognized by the Illinois Community College Board.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Student Success: Enhancing student learning through resource optimization and ongoing assessment.

Curriculum Development: Developing responsive curricula to meet community needs.

Community Engagement: Encouraging community participation in educational opportunities.

Continuous Improvement: Committing to ongoing self-study and assessment to enrich educational programs and student support services.

Specialization and Programs

Morton College offers 40 career certificates, 15 Associate in Applied Science degrees, and 6 transfer program degrees. Popular programs include Liberal Arts & Sciences, Registered Nursing, and Biological & Physical Sciences.

Technologies Utilized

The college has upgraded its science and computer laboratories to state-of-the-art facilities and offers wireless access throughout the campus.

Primary Markets Targeted

Morton College primarily serves residents of Community College District No. 527, encompassing Berwyn, Cicero, Forest View, Lyons, McCook, Stickney, and other near-western suburbs.

Financials and Funding

Tuition and Fees

In-State Tuition: $8,852 per year

Out-of-State Tuition: $10,900 per year

Average Net Price: $8,746 per year

Books & Supplies: $2,400 per year

Financial Aid

Approximately 91% of students receive financial aid, with an average total aid awarded of $7,796 per year.

Revenue

Morton College's estimated annual revenue is approximately $178.2 million, with an estimated revenue per employee of $252,000.

Pipeline Development

Enrollment and Demographics

Total Enrollment (2023-2024): 3,653 students

Credit Students: 3,562

Non-Credit Students: 455

Gender Distribution:

Female: 57%

Male: 42%

Ethnicity:

Hispanic: 82%

Average Age: 24 years

Graduation and Retention Rates

Graduation Rate: 28%

Retention Rate: 68%

Technological Platform and Innovation

Facilities and Resources

Morton College has invested in modernizing its facilities, including:

Library: Renovated in 2005, featuring increased computer access, wireless connectivity, group study rooms, and a cyber-café.

Science and Computer Labs: Upgraded to state-of-the-art facilities.

Student Success Center: Opened in 2007, offering tutoring, placement testing, career assistance, and recreational activities.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

President: Dr. Stanley Fields

Background: Appointed by the Board of Trustees, Dr. Fields leads the institution in its mission to enhance community education.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Morton College operates within a competitive landscape of community colleges in the Chicago metropolitan area, serving a diverse student population with a focus on accessible and affordable education.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Triton College: Located in River Grove, Illinois, offering similar programs and serving overlapping communities.

City Colleges of Chicago: A network of community colleges in Chicago, providing a wide range of programs and services.

Moraine Valley Community College: Based in Palos Hills, Illinois, offering comprehensive educational programs.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Morton College Foundation

The Morton College Foundation, established in 1976, is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to educational advancement. It has disbursed over $1.3 million in scholarships to more than 1,500 students and contributed to capital development projects at the college.

Operational Insights

Athletics

Morton College is a member of the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference, participating in various intercollegiate sports, including baseball, basketball, soccer, cross country, volleyball, and softball.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Growth Initiatives

Morton College aims to increase student persistence rates and expand its program offerings to meet evolving community needs. Investments in technology and facilities position the college to enhance student learning experiences and outcomes.