When you envision a college student, you probably envision a fresh-faced, recent high school graduate in their late teens to early 20s.
For the community colleges serving Houston-area students, that’s not always the case — but it’s not that far off, either.
While community colleges tend to be more diverse than universities when it comes to students’ ages, the vast majority of students who attend Houston’s major community college systems are under the age of 25.
Lone Star and Houston Community College students were most likely to be 19 or younger, according to the most recent data. San Jacinto College’s student population was slightly older, with the largest share — 40 percent — of students being between 20 and 24 years old.
The graphics below showcase the age breakdown of Houston-area community college students.
No one path: Because the colleges are generally open to anybody who applies, they serve various purposes to students.
Some students are returning to school because they want to change careers. Some are studying toward workforce credentials. And some aren’t necessarily on a path to receive an award, but rather taking classes in their free time.
Diverse student body: Though their student bodies are generally younger, each of Houston’s community colleges do have a notable share of students over the age of 30.
Houston Community College has more students in their 30s than students in their 20s. The college also has the largest number of students who are older than 50.
Behind the numbers: Of Houston’s three major community college systems, Lone Star College has the youngest student body. More than half of Lone Star’s students are aged 19 and under.
The college’s relatively large dual-enrollment population contributes to this. High school students enrolled in college courses comprise 23 percent of Lone Star’s total enrollment, Community College Research Center data shows.
Miranda covers Houston’s community colleges in partnership with Open Campus. Despite roughly half of Houston’s higher-education students attending community colleges, there hasn’t been much news covering these systems or students — until now. Her reporting holds institutions accountable, highlights barriers faced by students and helps them navigate their opportunities. Reach Miranda at miranda@houstonlanding.org or on Twitter and Instagram.
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