Staff reports | Community Updates
Maricopa Community Colleges reports that 93% of its students graduate without student loan debt.
Data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System shows that only 7% of students across the system’s 10 colleges take out federal student loans, with an average loan amount of $3,765, according to a press release.
“Affordable education isn’t just an investment in our students—it’s an investment in our communities and Arizona’s growing economy,” said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, chancellor of Maricopa Community Colleges. “By earning a postsecondary education, students gain a pathway into good-paying jobs. As a system of 10 colleges, we pride ourselves in creating educational opportunities for all learners — because upward mobility should not be limited.”
In addition to associate and certificate programs, Maricopa Community Colleges offers Arizona’s most affordable bachelor’s degrees.
Upper division courses start at $145.50 per credit hour, allowing students to complete a four-year degree within the system at a significantly lower cost than traditional universities, the release states.
Bachelor’s programs include fields such as information technology, nursing, public safety administration, behavioral health and early childhood education. These programs are designed for both traditional and non-traditional students and emphasize workforce readiness.
The Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation and community partners offer more than 600 scholarships annually, including the Maricopa Promise Program. These awards cover tuition, fees, textbooks and other expenses, with many requiring only a single application.
During the spring 2025 semester, nearly $8.4 million in scholarships were awarded across the system.
Maricopa Community Colleges also reduce student costs through Open Educational Resources — free and low-cost learning materials that replace traditional textbooks. OER is available in hundreds of courses and saves students millions of dollars annually.
According to federal data, nearly 43 million Americans carry federal student loan debt, totaling more than $1.81 trillion. By keeping tuition low, expanding scholarship access and offering OER, Maricopa Community Colleges helps students invest in their education without long-term financial burdens.
Key factors:
•93% of students graduate debt-free
•Only 7% take out federal student loans
•$3,765 average loan amount for borrowers
•Among the lowest tuition rates in Arizona
•$8.4 million in scholarships awarded in spring 2025
•OER program saves students millions annually
The 10-college system serves more than 140,000 students each year, educating more Arizona residents than any other college or university in Arizona.
