Overview
Founded in 1972 as part of the Virginia Community College System, Mountain Empire Community College was established to serve the rural mountain region of far Southwest Virginia, including Wise, Lee, and Scott counties. The college has grown into a vital educational and economic resource for the region, offering associate degrees, certificates, and workforce credentials that prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions or direct entry into the workforce. It is particularly known for its programs in nursing, industrial technology, and its role in regional economic diversification away from the area's historic coal-mining economy.
At a Glance
| Type | Community College |
| Location | Big Stone Gap, Virginia |
| Founded | 1972 |
| Total students | 1,800 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | Open admission |
| Graduation rate | 35% |
| Average starting salary | $35,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $4,800 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,500 |
| Room & board | N/A |
| Average financial aid | $5,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 75% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Industrial Technology
- Business Administration
- Early Childhood Education
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.