American River College
Sacramento, California
About American River College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1955, American River College is a 2-year college serving students in Sacramento, California. With a tradition of academic excellence, American River College prepares graduates for success in Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, and more.
A Diverse Community in Sacramento
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. With a 28:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
American River College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $3,744, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This commitment-based policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
American River College emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for American River College students
| First-year retention rate | 72% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $36,795 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $40,162 |
| Median debt at graduation | $9,625 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at American River College
| Total enrollment | 29,908 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 29,908 |
| International students | 0% |
| First-generation students | 51% |
What you can study at American River College
109 programs, most of them in these fields:
Business Management Marketing Support (13)
Accounting, Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping, Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (11)
Art/Art Studies, General, Dance, General, Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General, and more
Health Professions (9)
Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist, Biomedical Technology/Technician, Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic), and more
Computer Information Sciences (8)
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance, Computer Programming/Programmer, General, Computer Science, and more
Social Sciences (7)
Anthropology, General, Economics, General, Geography, and more
Communication Journalism (4)
Journalism, Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing, Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, Other, and more
Engineering Technologies (4)
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General, Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician, Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General, and more
Family and Consumer Sciences (4)
Child Development, Family Systems, Fashion/Apparel Design, and more
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