Butler County Community College vs Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC)

Butler County Community College and Waukesha County Technical College, two esteemed institutions of higher learning, offer distinct educational experiences tailored to diverse student aspirations. Butler, nestled in the heart of Butler County, Pennsylvania, boasts an acceptance rate of 100%, welcoming students from all backgrounds to embark on their academic journeys. Waukesha, located in the vibrant city of Pewaukee, Wisconsin, maintains a slightly more selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 98%. While both colleges offer a wide range of programs, Butler's forte lies in liberal arts and sciences, while Waukesha excels in technical and career-oriented fields. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to delve into further details regarding acceptance rates, popular majors, student demographics, and graduation rates, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your unique educational goals and aspirations.
Butler County Community College logo

Butler County Community College

Waukesha County Technical College logo

Waukesha County Technical College

Overview

Location Butler, Pennsylvania Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Campus setting Town: Fringe Suburb: Large
College type 2 year 2 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate Undergraduate
Students retention rate 61.0% 71.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate Open Admission Open Admission
Application fees $25 $30
SAT range N/A N/A
ACT range N/A N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants
Total number of admissions given out
Admitted students who chose to enroll
Yield rate
Test scores (SAT/ACT)
High school GPA N/A N/A
Recommendation letters N/A N/A
High school transcript N/A N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) N/A N/A

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $15,350

Out of state: $18,350
In state: $18,198

Out of state: $20,271
Average net price $5,572 $9,929
Tuition
In state: $6,890

Out of state: $9,890
In state: $4,272

Out of state: $6,345
Room & board
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

82.0%
Average amount $3,638
55.0%
Average amount $3,470
Students receiving federal student loan 32.0%
Average amount $4,270
27.0%
Average amount $6,231
Students taking out private loans 3.0%
Average amount $4,249
1.0%
Average amount $7,672

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 2,529
Men 38.4% Women 61.6%
7,357
Men 52.0% Women 48.0%
Graduate students N/A N/A
Racial/ethnic diversity
Very Low
Low
Out-of-state students 0.7% N/A
International students 0.2% N/A
Campus local/setting Town: Fringe Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity N/A N/A
First year students are required to live on campus? N/A N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Pennsylvania Florida New Jersey Ohio N/A

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Liberal Arts
  • Psychology
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Law Enforcement and Firefighting
  • Precision Production
  • Automotive Technology
Students to faculty ratio 13:1 22:1
Institutional accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 24.6% 43.7%
Dropout rate 30.5% 36.2%
Transferred out 28.9% 8.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $52,886
  • Year 2: $56,641
  • Year 3: $58,225
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $34,704
  • Year 3: $35,743
Business/Commerce, General (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $28,598
  • Year 3: $35,194
Health and Medical Administrative Services (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $27,356
  • Year 2: $27,874
  • Year 3: $27,606
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $34,780
  • Year 2: $26,933
  • Year 3: $26,196
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $29,455
  • Year 2: $18,309
  • Year 3: $24,049
Computer Software and Media Applications (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $17,282
  • Year 3: N/A
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $51,320
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $64,493
  • Year 3: $66,475
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,141
  • Year 2: $55,117
  • Year 3: $56,722
Dental Support Services and Allied Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,267
  • Year 2: $50,856
  • Year 3: $53,728
Computer Programming (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,917
  • Year 2: $47,846
  • Year 3: $52,500
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,707
  • Year 2: $44,356
  • Year 3: $52,334
Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $47,502
  • Year 2: $47,930
  • Year 3: $50,908
Ground Transportation (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $48,840
  • Year 2: $47,260
  • Year 3: $48,485
Precision Metal Working (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $42,235
  • Year 3: $46,299
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,928
  • Year 2: $43,798
  • Year 3: $45,780
Human Resources Management and Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $44,089

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary differences in location and campus environment between Butler County Community College (BC3) and Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC)?

    BC3 is located in Butler County, Pennsylvania, offering a primarily suburban campus environment. WCTC is situated in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, and typically has a more diverse campus setting, often with multiple locations and a blend of urban and suburban influences. Consider your preferred lifestyle and access to amenities when choosing between the two.

  • How do the tuition and fees compare at BC3 and WCTC?

    Tuition and fees vary between the two colleges. Generally, you should research the most current tuition rates on each college's official website. Consider factors like in-state versus out-of-state residency, as this significantly impacts the cost. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available at both institutions, so explore those options as well.

  • What academic programs are offered at BC3 and WCTC, and how do they differ?

    Both BC3 and WCTC offer a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs. BC3 often emphasizes programs relevant to the Pennsylvania job market, while WCTC tailors its offerings to the Wisconsin economy. Research specific programs of interest at each college to compare curriculum, faculty expertise, and industry connections. Both colleges also offer transfer pathways to four-year universities.

  • What is the student-to-faculty ratio like at BC3 and WCTC, and how does this impact the learning experience?

    Both colleges generally maintain favorable student-to-faculty ratios, which contribute to a more personalized learning experience. Smaller class sizes often allow for more individual attention from instructors and greater opportunities for interaction with peers. Check the specific program details for the most accurate information, but expect a similar level of accessibility to instructors at both institutions.

  • How do the student support services compare at BC3 and WCTC?

    Both BC3 and WCTC provide comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and disability services. The specific resources and their availability may vary slightly. Review the services offered by each college to determine which best meets your individual needs. Consider factors like the availability of online resources and the hours of operation for support centers.

  • What are the opportunities for extracurricular activities and campus life at BC3 and WCTC?

    Both colleges offer a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations to enhance the student experience. The specific offerings may differ based on the college's location and student body interests. Explore the websites of both colleges to learn about student clubs, sports teams, and campus events to determine which environment aligns with your interests.

  • How do the transfer opportunities to four-year universities compare for students at BC3 and WCTC?

    Both BC3 and WCTC have established transfer agreements with numerous four-year universities. These agreements streamline the transfer process and ensure that credits earned at the community college are accepted. Research the specific transfer pathways available at each college to the four-year institutions you are considering. The ease of transfer will depend on the specific program and the target university.

  • What is the job placement rate or career services support like at BC3 and WCTC?

    Both colleges offer career services to assist students with job placement and career development. These services typically include resume writing assistance, interview preparation, and job search resources. Research the specific career services offered by each college, including the availability of internships and employer partnerships. While specific job placement rates can fluctuate, both colleges are committed to helping students succeed in their chosen fields.

  • How does the online learning experience compare at BC3 and WCTC?

    Both BC3 and WCTC offer online courses and programs. The quality and format of online learning may vary. Investigate the online learning platforms, the availability of online support services, and the types of online courses offered at each college. Consider your preferred learning style and the level of technical support you may need when evaluating online options.

  • Are there any specific advantages or disadvantages to attending either BC3 or WCTC?

    The best college for you depends on your individual circumstances and goals. BC3 may be advantageous if you prefer a suburban environment and are interested in programs aligned with the Pennsylvania job market. WCTC might be a better fit if you prefer a more diverse campus setting and are interested in programs relevant to the Wisconsin economy. Consider factors like location, cost, program offerings, and campus culture when making your decision.

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