LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE NAMED ONE OF THE TOP COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN UNITED STATES

BENTON HARBOR, MICH. – Lake Michigan College has earned national recognition as one of the top community colleges in the US and the best in Michigan, according to Smart Asset’s 2024 Best Community Colleges in the U.S study^[1]. This recognition highlights LMC’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, affordability, and its positive impact on the community.

Smart Asset, a leading financial technology company, analyzed 616 two-year community colleges that offer associate degrees and have at least 500 full-time students enrolled. The rankings were assigned based on 2022-23 school year data collected by the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. The analysis was based on three key metrics:

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: LMC’s student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1 reflects the college’s commitment to providing personalized attention and a supportive learning environment.
• Retention Rate:  LMC had a full-time student retention rate of 79%, highlighting the college’s dedication to creating an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and motivated.
• Cost of Tuition and Fees:  With a strong focus on affordability, Lake Michigan College not only offers affordable tuition, but has focused on making higher education accessible to all.

“Lake Michigan College is proud to be ranked first in Michigan, and among the top community colleges in the country,” said LMC President Dr. Trevor Kubatzke. “It highlights the work we are doing to support outstanding experiences for our students and to drive student success. It’s a proud moment for our students, faculty, staff, donors, and the taxpayers of our district who support the College.”

About Smart Asset

Smart Asset is a New York-based financial technology company that provides personal finance tools and resources to help people make better financial decisions. The company’s studies and rankings are widely recognized for their comprehensive analysis and data-driven insights. It’s financial information and advice powers SmartAsset AMP, a national marketplace connecting consumers to financial advisors.

Lake Michigan College

Lake Michigan College is a two-year, fully accredited, nonprofit community college with a main campus in Benton Harbor, the heart of Southwest Michigan, and satellite campuses in Niles and South Haven. LMC serves as a vital cultural hub and key regional economic partner; the college boasts the largest performing arts center in the area, offers intercollegiate athletics, on-campus housing, and a rich array of clubs, activities, and organizations to provide students with a vibrant, full college experience close to home.