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Mountain Empire Community College

Big Stone Gap, Virginia · Public

$7k/yearCost after aid
Nov 30Application deadline

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
B-Academics
C-Admissions
C+Student Life
B-Overall

About

Mountain Empire Community College is located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,240 students.

mecc.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$7kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$4,863
Out-of-state tuition$10,866
Avg aid package$6,317
Students receiving aid42%
Pell grant recipients41%

Mountain Empire Community College offers affordable education with in-state tuition at $4,863 and out-of-state at $10,866. A significant 92% of students receive financial aid, averaging $6,317, making it accessible for many. The college also provides various scholarships and payment plans to ease the financial burden.

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Admissions

Application info

Student–faculty ratio20:1
Test optionalNo
Application fee$0

Application dates

Early DecisionNov 30
Regular DecisionNov 30
PriorityNov 30

Mountain Empire Community College has an open admissions policy, making it accessible for most applicants. The college requires a completed application and proof of high school diploma or equivalent. Advisors are available to guide students through the enrollment process.

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Academics

Student–faculty ratio20:1
Full-time faculty37%

MECC provides a supportive academic environment with accessible faculty and staff. Professors are understanding and accommodating, fostering a positive learning atmosphere. The college emphasizes practical skills and workforce readiness, particularly in medical and technical fields.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$32,622
Avg starting salary$28,300
Job placement rate90%
Earn more than HS grad50%
Economic mobility136%

MECC boasts a strong employment rate, with 90% of graduates finding jobs within a year of graduation. The college focuses on preparing students for workforce demands, particularly in medical and health-related fields. While some programs are stepping stones to larger universities, many students secure local employment post-graduation.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,240Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 61%Male 39%
92% WhiteRacial diversity
White 92%Hispanic 3%Black 2%Asian 0%Other 3%
Campus housingYes

The campus culture at MECC is friendly and diverse, with a focus on learning and personal growth. Students from various backgrounds connect through clubs, organizations, and campus events. While nightlife may be limited, the college offers a supportive community for students to engage and socialize.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

This is an amazing college and the professors are just as great. I took the Criminal Justice program and it was an blast.

Student

When Covid-19 happened all my classes switched to online and it was really easy to do and the professors were really helpful.

Student

I was able to graduate from MECC with an Associates Degree in General Education before graduating high school. I am thankful for all of the help and time that the professors put in for me because there were points where I was struggling to juggle both high school and college classes. These professors made such a huge positive impact on my college experience.

Campus and vibes

Student

I had a great experience with Mountain Empire. My advisors were always willing to help, and it made the process so much easier.

Student

In the past years I have learned so much at Mountain Empire. The staff is kind, the instructors are very helpful, and I would recommend this college to anyone. It's a community college and those sometimes get left out, but I've learned so much and I've had such a wonderful experience here and I can't wait to see what the future holds for me at MECC.

Student

I do not start my classes until next week, but so far it has been great. Everybody at the college seems nice and helpful. They also offer some interesting courses and classes, so I am exited to get started!

Student

This college has made me feel so welcome. I attended Purdue University Northwest prior, and nothing I experienced there compares to the short time I've bene at MECC. The faculty is so nice and understanding.

Student

I love going to school here. The staff are wonderful and always willing to go above and beyond to help you in any way they can. Financial aid is extremely helpful and always have a way to help you out with paying for college. The professors care about you, and understand that life happens. There are multiple club/organization opportunities and ways to get connected if you wish to do so.

Student

I like attending Mountain Empire due to the fact that I live and work less than 10 minutes away. I also like attending a smaller college so that I am able to get time with my teachers if I have questions or concerns.

About Mountain Empire Community College

MECC prioritizes campus safety with 24-hour security patrols and emergency phones. The college provides a safe environment for students, contributing to its A+ safety grade. Specific details on emergency systems and security measures are not detailed in the provided documents.

Endowment$29,765,437
Avg faculty salary$86,484

Mountain Empire Community College FAQ

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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