Middlesex Community College (MxCC) vs North Shore Community College

Middlesex Community College and North Shore Community College, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in Massachusetts, offer diverse educational opportunities to students seeking a solid foundation for their academic and professional pursuits. While sharing a commitment to academic excellence and student success, these colleges exhibit distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and aspirations. Middlesex Community College boasts a higher acceptance rate, welcoming a broader range of students, while North Shore Community College maintains a slightly more selective admissions process. In terms of student demographics, Middlesex Community College hosts a larger and more diverse student body, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. As you explore the comprehensive comparison table provided, you'll discover further insights into the unique strengths and offerings of each college, including popular majors, graduation rates, and additional factors that can help you make an informed decision about your educational journey.
Middlesex Community College logo

Middlesex Community College

North Shore Community College logo

North Shore Community College

Overview

Location Bedford, Massachusetts Danvers, Massachusetts
Campus setting Suburb: Large Suburb: Large
College type 2 year 2 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate Undergraduate
Students retention rate 60.0% 58.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate Open Admission Open Admission
Application fees
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) Not required Not required
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: $19,748

Out of state: $25,820
In state: $21,252

Out of state: $26,820
Average net price $5,255 $7,938
Tuition
In state: $576

Out of state: $5,520
In state: $600

Out of state: $6,168
Room & board
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

90.0%
Average amount $4,192
61.0%
Average amount $6,079
Students receiving federal student loan 13.0%
Average amount $5,001
21.0%
Average amount $3,779
Students taking out private loans 1.0%
Average amount $6,140
1.0%
Average amount $11,211

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 7,134
Men 39.2% Women 60.8%
4,603
Men 34.6% Women 65.4%
Graduate students N/A N/A
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Moderate
Out-of-state students N/A N/A
International students 2.1% 0.2%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Large 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 Mississippi New Hampshire Maine Rhode Island Vermont N/A

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Liberal Arts
  • Business
  • Science Technologies
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Health Professions
  • Liberal Arts
  • Law Enforcement and Firefighting
  • Family and Consumer Sciences
  • Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio 18:1 12:1
Institutional accreditation New England Commission on Higher Education New England Commission on Higher Education

Outcome

Graduation rate 20.6% 21.8%
Dropout rate 41.9% 50.3%
Transferred out 20.1% 14.0%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Dental Support Services and Allied Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,791
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $62,029
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,166
  • Year 2: $56,641
  • Year 3: $57,842
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $32,337
  • Year 2: $41,087
  • Year 3: $44,151
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $34,884
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $36,407
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $28,506
  • Year 2: $30,047
  • Year 3: $34,212
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $27,421
  • Year 2: $27,203
  • Year 3: $30,773
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,429
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Biology Technician/Biotechnology Laboratory Technician (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,580
  • Year 2: $44,971
  • Year 3: N/A
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,488
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $62,848
  • Year 2: $59,937
  • Year 3: $62,129
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $60,418
  • Year 2: $59,124
  • Year 3: $59,352
Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas)
  • Year 1: $53,489
  • Year 2: $49,625
  • Year 3: $51,628
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $37,040
  • Year 2: $46,087
  • Year 3: $46,736
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $32,925
  • Year 2: $33,993
  • Year 3: $39,022
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $26,205
  • Year 2: $24,562
  • Year 3: $36,569
Accounting and Related Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,789
  • Year 2: $33,993
  • Year 3: $36,023
Health and Medical Administrative Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $34,141
  • Year 2: $28,236
  • Year 3: $33,856
Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $24,884
  • Year 2: $27,522
  • Year 3: $29,849
Agricultural and Domestic Animal Services (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $28,215
  • Year 2: $26,353
  • Year 3: $28,872

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC)?

    Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC) both offer excellent educational opportunities, but they differ in location and some program specializations. MCC has campuses in Lowell and Bedford, Massachusetts, while NSCC is located across multiple campuses on the North Shore, including Danvers, Lynn, and Middleton. MCC is known for its strong liberal arts programs and its connection to the local tech industry in the Lowell area. NSCC has a strong focus on healthcare programs and maritime-related studies, reflecting the needs of the North Shore region.

  • Where are Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC) located?

    Middlesex Community College (MCC) has two campuses: one in Lowell, Massachusetts, and another in Bedford, Massachusetts. North Shore Community College (NSCC) has multiple campuses located across the North Shore of Massachusetts, including Danvers, Lynn, and Middleton.

  • Which college, MCC or NSCC, is better known for its healthcare programs?

    North Shore Community College (NSCC) is particularly well-regarded for its healthcare programs. They offer a wide range of options, including nursing, medical assisting, and other allied health fields, often partnering with local hospitals and healthcare providers for clinical experiences.

  • Does either MCC or NSCC have a strong connection to the technology industry?

    Yes, Middlesex Community College (MCC) has a strong connection to the technology industry, particularly in the Lowell area. They offer programs designed to prepare students for careers in technology and often collaborate with local tech companies for internships and job opportunities.

  • Do MCC and NSCC offer similar academic programs?

    Yes, both Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC) offer a wide range of similar academic programs, including associate degrees in liberal arts, business administration, and various STEM fields. Both colleges also provide certificate programs for career training and transfer pathways to four-year universities.

  • Which college is more convenient if I live in the Lowell area?

    If you live in the Lowell area, Middlesex Community College (MCC) would likely be more convenient due to its campus location in Lowell.

  • Which college is more convenient if I live on the North Shore?

    If you live on the North Shore of Massachusetts, North Shore Community College (NSCC) would likely be more convenient, as it has multiple campuses located throughout the region, including Danvers, Lynn, and Middleton.

  • What are the tuition costs like at MCC and NSCC?

    Tuition costs at Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC) are generally comparable, as they are both Massachusetts community colleges. You can find the most up-to-date tuition and fees information on each college's official website. Be sure to also explore financial aid options, as both colleges offer various scholarships and grants.

  • Do MCC and NSCC offer online courses?

    Yes, both Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC) offer a variety of online courses, providing flexibility for students who prefer to learn remotely. Check each college's website for a current list of online course offerings.

  • Do MCC and NSCC offer support services for students?

    Yes, both Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC) offer comprehensive support services for students, including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, disability services, and library resources. They are committed to helping students succeed academically and personally.

  • Does either college specialize in maritime-related studies?

    North Shore Community College (NSCC) offers programs related to maritime studies, reflecting the needs of the North Shore region's coastal economy.

  • How do I decide which college is right for me?

    To decide which college is right for you, consider factors such as location, program offerings, tuition costs, and campus culture. Visit both Middlesex Community College (MCC) and North Shore Community College (NSCC) if possible, talk to current students and faculty, and carefully review their websites to gather all the information you need to make an informed decision. Consider what programs align with your career goals and which location is most convenient for you.

Compare Similar Colleges

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