Elevating Affordable Transfer Programs and Career and Technical Education
Kansas community colleges invite citizens to join them in celebrating National Community College Month this April. With community colleges spread across the state, these institutions drive economic growth, provide the workforce critical to the state's economy, and foster educational opportunities that make possible prosperous economic futures for students.
An economic study released in November 2023 by Lightcast, a labor market analytics firm, found that between 2021 – 2022 Kansas’ community colleges added $6.7 billion in income to the state economy, or approximately 3.3% of Kansas’ gross state product (GSP).
The affordability of community colleges is a major financial advantage to students. Kansas’ robust network of community colleges served more than 90,000 students in 2023.
"Kansas community colleges are undoubtedly the best value in higher education—whether a student is seeking a pathway to a four-year degree or wants to receive the education needed to go directly into a skilled trade, Kansas community colleges are ready to serve students of all ages at an affordable price," said Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community Colleges.
National Community College Month serves as an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the transformative power of community colleges, which continue to bridge the gap between the unskilled and a trained workforce. Career-focused programs, flexible schedules, and lower tuition have afforded thousands of Kansans the opportunity to achieve their educational and professional aspirations.
Facts About Kansas Community Colleges:
- Remain the most affordable option to access higher education.
- Serve and support citizens from all walks of life.
- Work to ensure seamless transfer of credits to four-year universities in Kansas.
- Provide personalized attention to students with faculty mentors focused on student success.
- Partner with business and industry for innovative workforce training.