Lake Michigan College has earned national recognition as the 13th-best community college in the United States, according to SmartAsset’s 2025 Best Community Colleges study. The ranking highlights LMC’s exceptional commitment to student success, academic excellence, and educational value. LMC was recognized as the top community college in Michigan for the second year in a row.
SmartAsset’s comprehensive study evaluated 585 two-year colleges nationwide that offer associate degrees and have at least 500 full-time students. The ranking was based on three critical metrics: retention rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and cost of tuition and fees for in-state students.
“This recognition validates our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities and support for our students,” said Dr. Trevor Kubatzke, President, Lake Michigan College. “Being ranked as the top community college in Michigan and 13th nationally demonstrates the quality of education and student experience we deliver every day.”
Outstanding Performance Metrics
Lake Michigan College’s ranking is supported by strong performance across all evaluated areas:
- Retention Rate: 89% of first-time students return to continue their studies the following fall, significantly higher than the national median.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, ensuring personalized attention and support for student success.
- Affordable Excellence: Average domestic tuition of $2,632.50 per semester, providing exceptional value for a high-quality education.
“Our high retention rate of 89% reflects our student-centered approach and the comprehensive support services we provide,” continued Kubatzke. “Students succeed here because of our dedicated faculty, staff, and the collaborative learning environment we’ve created.”
“This designation is not just about us. As communities in Southwest Michigan compete for people, investment, and new businesses, this is a major selling point, as the workforce is the number one issue in the war for talent. This is another way LMC impacts the region,” he emphasized.
National Recognition Amid Strong Competition
The SmartAsset study recognized institutions nationwide for their ability to provide quality education while maintaining affordability and strong student outcomes. LMC’s #13 national ranking places it among an elite group of community colleges, with North Carolina institutions dominating the top 10.
As Michigan’s highest-ranked institution in the study, LMC significantly outperformed other state community colleges, with the next-highest Michigan school ranking 55th nationally.
Commitment to Student Success
According to the SmartAsset report, Lake Michigan College’s exceptional ranking reflects its comprehensive approach to student success, including:
- Small class sizes that foster meaningful faculty-student relationships
- Comprehensive student support services
- Strong career and transfer programs
- Modern facilities and technology
- Active community partnerships
“This ranking is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire LMC community – faculty, staff, and students alike,” said Dr. Ken Flowers, Executive Vice President, Lake Michigan College. “It reinforces our position as a leader in community college education and our commitment to serving students and our regional community.”
About the SmartAsset Study
SmartAsset’s 2025 Best Community Colleges study analyzed data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) for the 2023-2024 school year. The methodology focused on three key factors that directly impact student success and educational value: retention rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and the cost of tuition and fees for in-state students pursuing associate degrees.
