What Is It Known For?
Bishop State Community College, located in Mobile, Alabama, is part of the Alabama Community College System, which encompasses a network of state community colleges. Founded in 1927, Bishop State serves a diverse student body, with approximately 4,000 students enrolling each semester.
Bishop State’s community-focused approach is demonstrated by its collaborations with local businesses and industries, which assist in guaranteeing that its programs are relevant and suited to current employment market demands. The institution is known for its dedication to delivering accessible, high-quality education and training to its community.
Degrees & Certifications
Bishop State Community College offers a range of educational programs, including:
- Associate Degrees: Associate in Applied Science, Associate in Science, Associate in Arts
- Diplomas: Various specialized diplomas in technical and vocational fields
- Certificates: Short-term certificates in fields such as health sciences, business, and technology
Class Schedules
Bishop State provides flexible scheduling options, including morning, afternoon, and evening classes. Many programs also offer online and hybrid classes to accommodate different schedules. Some programs incorporate externships or clinical experiences to ensure practical, hands-on training.
Is It Legit?
Yes. Bishop State Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which guarantees the institution meets rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness.
Acceptance Rate
According to the U.S. Department of Education, Bishop State Community College operates with an open admissions policy, accepting all applicants who meet basic entrance requirements. This policy ensures broad access to higher education for a diverse range of students.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at Bishop State Community College is relatively affordable. In-state students can expect to pay approximately $4,000 per year, while out-of-state students typically pay around $8,000 annually. Costs may vary based on specific programs and additional fees. For a more detailed estimate of your costs and potential financial aid, use their Net Price Calculator.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting
- Information Systems
- Management
- Office Administration
Healthcare
- Health Information Technology (AAS)
- Medical Billing & Coding
- LPN
- Physical Therapy Assistant
- RN
Professional Services
- Barbering
- Cosmetology
- Culinary Arts
- Nail Tech
Skilled Trades
- Automotive Technology
- CDL
- Diesel Technology
- Electrical Technology
- HVAC
- Industrial Maintenance
- Lineworker
- Machine Tool Technology
- Welding
Campus Locations
Mobile 351 N Broad St, Mobile, AL 36603
Reviews
Based on reviews in Google, Bishop State Community College has a mixed but overall high rating. It is praised for its supportive staff and positive learning environment, but it has faced criticism for poor administrative and communication practices, which have been a long-standing issue.
Overall Score: 3.8/5 Stars
Common Praises
Supportive and Caring Staff: Many reviewers, including recent ones, describe the staff and professors as patient, helpful, and caring. Specific staff members are singled out for praise for going above and beyond to assist students and make their experience fulfilling.
Effective Programs and Learning Environment: Students in the nursing program and other courses express that the school prepares them to succeed, pushing them to accomplish their goals. Reviewers note that the instructors are “great” and that the school provides excellent resources and tutoring.
Community and Accessibility: Reviewers describe a friendly, welcoming atmosphere where people are eager to help. The college is seen as a “great place to start” for students, particularly due to its affordability and the sense of community on campus.
Common Criticisms
Poor Administrative and Financial Aid Services: This is the most consistent and severe criticism. Reviewers from several years ago up to the present day complain about rude, unprofessional, and unhelpful staff in the financial aid and student affairs offices. Students report extreme difficulty in getting in touch with anyone by phone or email, and encountering a “confusing” and “unprofessional” process for things like transcripts.
Organizational Issues: The college is criticized for being poorly organized, with confusing building layouts and issues with event planning, such as an RN graduation that was held in a space too small for attendees.
Momentum
Based on reviews in Google, the momentum for Bishop State Community College is mixed. While there are a number of recent positive reviews praising the supportive staff, there are still recent complaints about administrative issues. The owner’s responses to these reviews are proactive, acknowledging the criticism and stating a commitment to improvement and transparency under new leadership. This indicates the college is actively working to address its long-standing administrative problems, which is reflected in a mix of new positive and negative feedback.