As the Fall 2025 semester begins on August 23, enrollment at the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges is on pace to reach 110,000 students, marking a 15% increase over last year and the largest year-over-year growth in recent memory. Of these students, 52% are the first in their families to attend college, continuing the system’s tradition of opening doors to higher education for all.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome a record-breaking class this fall,” said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor. “These numbers are a testament to the role we play as Arizona’s most accessible, affordable, and local higher education provider.”
The Clear #1 Choice for Arizonans
More than 90% of students enrolled at Maricopa Community Colleges are Arizona residents, making the system the top choice for in-state students. This fall, nearly 91% of the students call Arizona home, representing a double-digit percentage increase over last year's fall enrollment. In 2024, the colleges educated more than 125,000 Arizonans, surpassing the combined in-state enrollment of all three public universities. As Arizona's largest higher education provider, the 10-college system is the state's most significant talent pipeline, preparing graduates to power the local workforce and economy.
The Valley’s Most Affordable Bachelor's Degree
Only two years after launching its first baccalaureate degree programs, Maricopa Community Colleges now offers 11 bachelor's degrees. This fall, enrollment in these programs has nearly doubled, with nearly 7,500 students pursuing four-year degrees across the system. Three new programs debut this semester, further expanding pathways for students to advance their education and careers.
At just $97 per credit hour for lower-division courses and $145.50 for upper-division courses, these degrees offer substantial savings—up to $40,000 compared to tuition at Arizona's public universities—making the system the Valley's most affordable bachelor's degree.
First-Generation Students at the Forefront
Over half of the students enrolled are the first in their families to attend college. In addition to being the most affordable pathway to a better future, Maricopa Community Colleges continues to provide the support, resources, and guidance needed to help students succeed in their educational journey.
Shaping Arizona's Future
With over 600 degree and certificate programs, Maricopa Community Colleges remains committed to delivering affordable, high-quality education for everyone. The colleges' impact extends beyond the classroom—according to a recent economic impact study, the system provides $11.7 billion in benefits and savings to the community through the resources and services provided to our students.
"Our students are the future leaders, innovators, and professionals who will shape Arizona's growth," added Dr. Gonzales. "We are proud to serve them and to continue building a stronger, more vibrant state."
Why it Matters
Maricopa Community Colleges is not just educating students—it is positively shaping Arizona's future. Record-setting enrollment growth means more skilled graduates entering the workforce, addressing critical shortages in fields like healthcare, education, and technology. With more than 90% of students coming from within the state, the majority of graduates remain in Arizona after earning their degrees, directly contributing to the state's economic and community development. First-generation students, who make up over half of the system's enrollment, are breaking cycles, creating new opportunities for their families, and shaping the next generation of Arizona's leaders.
Maricopa Community Colleges continues to prove there is a better way to do college—one that puts students first, creates opportunity for all, and drives Arizona’s future forward.
Learn more at maricopa.edu.
*Maricopa Community Colleges enrolls students for the fall semester on an ongoing basis, with multiple class start dates offered throughout the term. Enrollment figures presented in this release are reasonable projections and subject to change as additional students register.