Overview
Highland Community College was founded in 1962 as a public two-year institution serving Freeport, Illinois and the surrounding rural region. It emerged from the growing national movement to establish community colleges that would provide affordable, local access to higher education and workforce training. The college has built a reputation for strong transfer partnerships with four-year Illinois institutions and practical career-technical programs tailored to regional employer needs. It remains a cornerstone of educational opportunity for Stephenson County and neighboring communities.
At a Glance
| Type | Community College |
| Location | Freeport, Illinois |
| Founded | 1962 |
| Total students | 2,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 100% |
| Graduation rate | 32% |
| Average starting salary | $36,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $4,200 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $8,500 |
| Room & board | N/A |
| Average financial aid | $4,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Agriculture
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Liberal Arts Transfer
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.