Bishop State Community College

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Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Bishop State Community College

  • Overview & Academics

    Bishop State Community College is a public, two-year institution located in Mobile, Alabama. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The college provides a range of academic programs, workforce training, and technical education. With its emphasis on accessible and affordable education, Bishop State serves students seeking associate degrees, certificates, career advancement, and transfer opportunities to four-year universities. The college consists of four campuses, each dedicated to specific academic and technical disciplines.

    • Academic Divisions:

      • Arts & Sciences
      • Business & Technology
      • Health Related Professions
      • Technical Education
    • Degrees Offered:

      • Associate in Arts (AA)
      • Associate in Science (AS)
      • Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
      • Certificates (less than one year and one to two years)
    • Popular Programs:

      • Nursing
      • Business Administration
      • Welding Technology
      • Computer Information Systems
      • Criminal Justice
      • Culinary Arts
      • Early Childhood Education
    • Additional Offerings:

      • Dual Enrollment
      • Adult Education / GED Preparation
      • Workforce Development
  • Admissions

    • Open admissions policy, welcoming a broad range of students
    • Application available online and in-person
    • Requires high school diploma or GED for most credit programs
    • Transcripts and placement testing may be needed for certain programs
    • Special admissions available for dual-enrolled and non-traditional students
  • Admission Stats

    • Acceptance Rate: Open Door (most applicants admitted)
    • Enrollment Deadline: Rolling Admissions (no set deadline)
    • Placement Tests: Required for English and Math for entering students unless exempt by ACT/SAT or prior college coursework
  • Cost

    • In-State Tuition & Fees (approx.): $4,800 per year
    • Out-of-State Tuition & Fees (approx.): $8,700 per year
    • Additional fees may apply for specific programs, labs, and campus activities
    • Financial aid available: Pell Grant, state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities
  • Student Population

    • Total Enrollment: Approximately 2,400 students
    • Diverse student body, with a majority African-American enrollment
    • Mix of full-time and part-time students
    • Average student age is mid-20s, reflecting both recent high-school graduates and adult learners
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • Designated as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU)
    • Recognized for workforce development and technical training in Mobile and surrounding areas
    • Strong Nursing and Allied Health programs, often cited in regional academic reports
  • Campus & Culture

    • Four campuses: Main Campus (North Broad Street), Baker-Gaines Central Campus, Southwest Campus, and Carver Campus
    • Main Campus houses administration, student services, and general education classes
    • Specialized facilities for health sciences, culinary arts, automotive, welding, technology, and more
    • Accessible by public transportation, with on-site parking available
    • Modernized classrooms, computer labs, technical workshops, and simulation labs
  • Athletics & Traditions

    • Athletic Teams (“Wildcats”)

      • Men’s and women’s basketball
      • Baseball
      • Softball
    • Affiliations

      • National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA)
      • Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC)
    • College-wide events include Homecoming, Spirit Week, and annual student recognition ceremonies
  • Mission

    Bishop State Community College strives to deliver quality, affordable, and accessible education to a diverse population. The mission emphasizes student success, academic excellence, workforce development, lifelong learning, and community engagement.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    • President: Dr. Olivier Charles
    • Active efforts to expand workforce partnerships and industry-aligned programs
    • Ongoing campus upgrades and technology enhancements
    • Pursuing new online learning options and hybrid course offerings
  • Programs

    • More than 40 academic and technical programs leading to degrees and certificates
    • Transfer pathways for students planning to continue at four-year institutions
    • Specialized offerings in Health Sciences (Nursing, Medical Assistant, Physical Therapy Assistant)
    • Technical trades (HVAC, Welding, Electrical, Automotive Technology)
    • Business, Information Technology, Criminal Justice, and Early Childhood Education
  • Campus Life

    • Student Government Association (SGA) organizes campus-wide events and initiatives
    • On-campus dining, student lounges, and study areas
    • Career services, tutoring, academic support, and library resources
    • Mental health and wellness counseling available
  • Student Organizations

    • Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
    • Bishop State Ambassadors
    • Cultural and interest-based clubs
    • Academic and professional organizations (Business Club, Nursing Club, SkillsUSA, etc.)
    • Faith-based groups and community service initiatives