Alabama’s community colleges report highest enrollment in decade

The number of residents pursuing academic credit and workforce credentials through Alabama’s community and technical colleges is the highest it has been since 2013.

The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) reported more than 170,000 residents enrolled in academic courses or registered for adult education and workforce training opportunities between August 2023 and July 2024, marking the first time since 2013 in which enrollment had reached those numbers.

Of the 170,000, 122,867 represent the academic headcount in credit-based programs. The remaining number represents those who are pursuing industry-recognized, job-ready workforce credentials that prepare residents for in-demand jobs throughout Alabama.

The surge in enrollment underscores the increasing demand for skilled workers and the value of community colleges as a vital resource for workforce development and economic growth.

“The slogan of the Alabama Community College System is that we make life better, and the challenge to do so successfully is evident in the support of Alabama’s leaders and in the number of Alabama residents achieving their goals through the colleges’ training,” said Jimmy H. Baker, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System.

“This enrollment achievement reflects the growing recognition of the critical role that community colleges play in providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to students from all walks of life.”

The commitment of Alabama’s community and technical colleges to align programs with the needs of local and regional employers ensures graduates are job-ready and equipped with the skills required to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

“This enrollment milestone is a testament to the hard work of our faculty and staff, the relevance of our programs, and the trust that students and their families place in us. We are proud to contribute to Alabama’s future by educating the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals,” said Olivier Charles, President of Bishop State Community College in Mobile.

The recent enrollment surge is particularly significant in light of ongoing efforts to increase Alabama’s college-going rates and labor force participation. ACCS’s initiatives, including scholarships, flexible learning options, and support services, have played a crucial role in making college more accessible to underserved communities.

Upcoming initiatives to continue the enrollment momentum include the expansion of online learning opportunities, partnerships with industry leaders, and the introduction of new programs in high-demand fields such as healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing.

“Alabama’s future is bright, and our community colleges are at the heart of it,” said Dr. Neil Scott, ACCS Vice Chancellor for Student Success. “As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on our mission to empower students, strengthen communities, and drive economic prosperity across the state.”

Reid State Technical College first-year student Darrian Middleton, who is studying in the college’s industrial electricity program, said he chose the college because he saw it as an opportunity to attend college.

“I took a break from high school and really lost hope on college after being turned down by a university, but when I found Reid State, I found my hope again,” he said. “It’s a two-year program but offers the same quality as a four-year. I believe it’ll get me on a path and allow me to go forward in life instead of staying in the same place.”