Iowa community college enrollment rebounds to pre-pandemic levels

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – A new state report shows more students are earning credentials tied directly to jobs as enrollment at community colleges is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels.

Students are training in-field for jobs hiring now at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids.

Shamar Benton is weeks away from graduating Kirkwood’s Construction Management program. He said community college gave him hands-on experience before entering the workforce.

“It’s a great program,” Benton said. “They put us through real life situations, and I feel like you don’t get that at other colleges.”

Statewide enrollment rebounds

The 2025 Annual Condition of Iowa’s Community Colleges report shows community college enrollment is rebounding, with Career and Technical Education programs driving more than three-quarters of degrees, and nine-in-ten graduates employed within a year.

Jennifer Bradley, vice president of academic affairs at Kirkwood, said students are interested in experiential learning.

Kirkwood said CTE programs are built around what local employers need to fill openings in areas like health care and construction.

“We are dedicated to making sure that students get those experiences in the classroom that are directly connected to what they can anticipate when they get out in industry,” Bradley said.

Benton said the smaller setting makes a difference. Fewer students per class means more one-on-one time with instructors.

“Kirkwood is together. It’s like a family,” Benton said.