Rogue Community College Reports Big Growth in Enrollment

Medford, Oregon- Rogue Community College (RCC) has reported a substantial increase in enrollment for the 2023-2024 academic year, with a nearly 19 percent rise in full-time equivalent (FTE) students. This growth positions RCC as one of Oregon’s top-performing community colleges, significantly outpacing the state’s average enrollment increase of 5.7 percent.

RCC’s total student population grew from 8,366 in 2022-2023 to 9,280 in 2023-2024, driven by focused recruitment efforts, community support, and a commitment to providing high-quality education. College President Dr. Randy Weber acknowledged the importance of collective efforts in achieving this success. “This achievement highlights RCC’s collective efforts and the unwavering support of our community. We are grateful to our dedicated faculty, staff, and Board of Education,” Weber stated.

A notable trend in RCC’s growth is the increase in on-campus enrollment, which surged by 50 percent over the past two years. While online enrollment remains steady, the majority of the growth has been seen in on-campus courses, suggesting a shift in student preferences. RCC’s career and workforce programs, particularly in fields such as Science, Allied Health, Welding, and Automotive Technology, have seen increased demand, aligning with local labor market trends.

“We are witnessing a strong comeback from the pandemic, with overall enrollment numbers nearing pre-pandemic levels,” said Weber. He emphasized the importance of workforce-based programs, which have seen significant growth, driven by students seeking direct pathways to employment.

RCC’s commitment to serving high school students has also played a role in its enrollment success. The college provided 16 training cohorts for high school students during the 2023-2024 academic year, strengthening the link between secondary education and career-ready skills.

In addition to its academic achievements, RCC continues to make a substantial economic impact. A recent analysis by labor market analytics firm Lightcast found that RCC contributes $306.5 million annually to the regional economy. This includes spending by the college on operations, construction, and student expenses, as well as higher earnings generated by RCC alumni in the workforce.

Looking ahead, RCC plans to continue expanding its programs and strengthen partnerships, particularly with Southern Oregon University, to further benefit the region. As studies show, postsecondary education, even without a degree, adds significant value to lifetime earnings, and an Associate’s degree provides an additional boost. RCC’s efforts underscore its role as both an educational and economic cornerstone in Jackson and Josephine counties.