Garrett College: An Overview of Academics, Admissions, and Student Life
Garrett College, formerly known as Garrett Community College, is a public community college located in McHenry, Maryland, in a rural setting near Deep Creek Lake. The institution adopted its current name in 2002, having been established in 1966. Garrett College provides accessible higher education opportunities, focusing on associate degrees and certificate programs.
History and Campus
The Garrett Community College Board of Trustees acquired a site in McHenry in 1968, initiating the construction of the campus. Over the years, Garrett College has expanded its facilities to meet the needs of its students and the community. In 2012, the Garrett College Community Aquatic and Recreation Complex (CARC) was completed. This 42,500-square-foot facility includes a gymnasium, a six-lane competition swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness facility, locker and shower rooms, a wet classroom for instruction, multi-use classroom space, and a physical and occupational therapy facility. In 2018, the college opened a state-of-the-art STEM building. Furthermore, Garrett College announced plans for a new performing arts center in 2018, with architecture and engineering work commencing on July 1, 2018, followed by construction the next year.
Academics
Garrett College offers a range of academic programs, including four different associate degrees: Associate in Arts (AA), Associate in Arts in Teaching (AAT), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate in Applied Science (AAS). Within these degree options, the college provides 16 programs of study and 12 different concentrations. Additionally, the college offers eight non-degree transfer options, three certificate programs, and numerous continuing education programs. Students can earn degrees and certificates in 15 different fields. Popular programs include: Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other, Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, and Business/Commerce, General.
Garrett College operates on a semester-based academic calendar. The student-faculty ratio is 13-to-1, allowing for personalized attention. The college prides itself on a 100% full-time faculty, ensuring that students have access to dedicated instructors.
Rankings and Accreditation
Garrett College is a member of the Maryland Association of Community Colleges and is one of 16 junior colleges in the state. The institution is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) oversees and coordinates higher education in the State of Maryland, including academic and financial policies at the college.
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Admissions and Enrollment
Garrett College has an open admissions policy, meaning applicants generally need to meet basic requirements to be admitted. Still, prospective students should submit a complete application and provide any other requested materials.
As of Fall 2023, the total number of entering students was 284. The college serves a diverse student body. The total enrollment is 624 students. The age distribution of students is as follows: under 18 (30%), 18-24 (60%), 25-64 (10%), and over 65 (0%).
Tuition, Cost, and Financial Aid
For the 2020-2021 academic year, the in-district tuition and fees were $3,976, in-state tuition and fees were $9,184, and out-of-state tuition and fees were $10,976. In-state tuition is $9,352 and out-of-state tuition is $11,368. Additional costs include approximately $1,000 for books and supplies. The weighted average for room and board and other expenses is $8,384.
At Garrett College, a significant percentage of undergraduates receive financial aid. 91 percent of undergraduates receive grant or scholarship aid, and the average scholarship or grant award is $4,037. The overall average net price of Garrett Community College is $5,229, but this varies depending on family income.
Student Life
Garrett College offers a variety of services and resources to support students' academic and personal growth. These include academic/career counseling services and employment services for students. Additionally, the college offers credit for life experiences.
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The freshmen retention rate at Garrett College is 55%, which is a bit lower than the national average of 68%.
Athletics
Garrett College is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference (MD JUCO).
Campus Safety
Garrett College prioritizes campus safety with 24-hour security patrol and campus emergency phones.
Location and Environment
Located near Deep Creek Lake, Garrett College provides a unique setting for students interested in outdoor activities and natural resources. The college leverages its location by offering specialized degree programs such as Adventure Sports Management and Natural Resources & Wildlife Technology.
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