East Valley Community
Our primary marketing efforts target the East Valley community within
the greater Phoenix-metro area. A majority of MCC students either live
and/or work in this community. Secondary target markets include the areas
immediately surrounding our two Mesa campuses located at Southern Avenue
and Dobson Road, and McKellips and Power roads.
Ethnicity* – A majority
of students enrolled at both MCC campuses and extended campuses are
White or non-Hispanic (63%) which mirrors the overall East Valley
population. The second leading ethnic group enrolled is Hispanic at
17%, and this number is steadily increasing. Asian/Pacific
Islander students make up 5% of our enrollment, Blacks make up 5% and American
Indian/Alaska Natives total 3% of MCC’s
student population.
Gender* – Our ratio of male to female students enrolled at MCC
is relatively even with 54% female and 46% male students attending all
campuses.
Age Group* – Although the student population at MCC’s Red
Mountain campus is generally older than that at Southern and Dobson,
the average age of total students enrolled at MCC is 26 years old.
*(Statistics compiled from MCC’s Office
of Research and Planning and based on the most recent U.S. Census
2000 figures).
Diverse Student Population
MCC’s population of more than 27,000 students is as diverse as it
is large. That makes our job in Marketing all the more challenging as
we develop and implement strategies to reach this vast audience—each
with its own unique needs and goals.
High School – Recent high school graduates make up over half
of our student body. These students understand the value and comprehensive
academic background they gain by attending MCC to earn their two-year
degree or certificate, or before transferring to a four-year university
or college to complete their degree.
Career Change – Don’t be surprised to see a number of “students”
on campus who are seasoned professionals in other careers. Many people
select MCC as their first choice in education when they are considering
a career change.
Continuing Education – MCC students understand that you never
stop learning. A number of individuals have returned to college to continue
their lifelong learning experience. Students find continuous learning
opportunities through our two comprehensive campuses,
MCC’s internet/distance learning courses, or a variety of non-credit
classes, workshops and seminars offered through the Community Education
Department.
