What Is It Known For?
Lake Michigan College is a well-established community college, having been founded in 1946. With an enrollment of over 3,000 students per semester, LMC is known for its commitment to providing accessible and accredited programs.
Because the school provides various academic opportunities, both residents of southwest Michigan and non-residents are able to further their education in a supportive and engaging environment.
Degrees & Certifications
Lake Michigan College has a variety of learning options for you. You can choose from over 50 associate degree programs (generally 2 years), more than 30 certificate programs (less than 2 years), specialized training, and even apprenticeships.
The school’s programs cover various fields, including:
- Arts & Humanities
- Business & Communication
- Computers & Information Technology
- Manufacturing & Industrial Technology, and more.
Class Schedules
Lake Michigan College is aware of student needs, and that’s why it offers a range of class schedules and formats.
Besides physically being in class, you can choose between hybrid classes, remote (live streaming), fully online programs, and flexible learning environments (FLE) to suit your preferences and lifestyle.
Additionally, the college provides opportunities for clinical experience for some courses, which puts you in the action so you can further practice your classroom knowledge.
For specific information regarding class timings and availability, reach out to the school directly.
Is It Legit?
Yes, Lake Michigan College is a legitimate institution. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). This independent body was established in 1895 and is recognized as a leading accreditation organization across the United States.
Acceptance Rate
Lake Michigan College maintains an open admissions policy, which means its acceptance rate is 100%.
High school graduates, those with a GED, adults over 18, and students in approved Early Middle College programs are all eligible for admission to the College.
How Much Does It Cost (Tuition)
Here are the basic tuition rates for Lake Michigan College’s programs:
- Police Academy Tuition
- In-district: $8,700
- Out of district: $9,500
- Tuition by Contact Hour
- In-district: $181.50
- Out-of-district: $258.50
- International: $356.00
Senior citizens may qualify for a waiver fee of $60.50.
For more precise calculations, you can use Lake Michigan College’s net price calculator or contact the school directly.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting
- Business Administration
Criminal Justice & Law
- Criminal Justice
Healthcare
- Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Exercise Science
- Medical Assisting
- Nursing
- Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomy Technician
- Psychology
- Radiologic Technology
Professional Services
- Culinary
- Graphic Design
- Theatre
Skilled Trades
- Commercial Drivers License (CDL)
- Machine Tool Technology
- Manufacturing Production
- Marine Maintenance Technician
- Mechatronics Technology
- Welding
Technology
- Computer Information Systems
- Cybersecurity
- Networking
- Applications Development
- Information Technology
- Web Development
Campus Locations
Benton Harbor 2755 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Niles 1905 Foundation Drive, Niles, MI 49120
South Haven 125 Veterans Blvd., South Haven, MI 49090
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Lake Michigan College has a generally positive reputation, with many students praising its campus, resources, and value. However, the reviews also reveal significant recurring concerns about administrative processes, particularly in financial aid, as well as faculty issues within specific programs.
Overall Score: 4.4/5 Stars
Common Praises
Affordable and Accessible Education: LMC is frequently cited as a great, low-cost option for starting a college education. Reviewers appreciate its affordability compared to four-year universities and its role as a “great place to start.” The college’s amentities, such as a Fab Lab and community gym memberships, also receive positive mentions.
Welcoming Atmosphere and Campus: Students often describe the campus environment and staff as friendly and welcoming. Many reviews mention a positive, peaceful atmosphere and a beautiful, well-maintained campus. The college’s Mendel Center is also noted as a great venue for performing arts.
Supportive Staff and Learning Environment: Several reviews express appreciation for the helpful and caring instructors and tutors. Students feel the staff is dedicated to their success, and the college offers a great “up and coming” environment with good instructors, tutors, and students.
Diverse Resources: The college is valued for its academic and community resources, including its nature trail, performing arts center, and athletic events.
Common Criticisms
Major Administrative and Financial Aid Issues: A consistent theme in the negative reviews is the poor experience with the financial department. Students report a terrible experience when trying to pay without loans, with one reviewer calling the department “garbage.” The college’s response indicates they are aware of these issues and offer a payment plan.
Inconsistent Faculty Quality: While some instructors are praised, others are criticized. One review mentions a specific instructor who was “rude” and created a “hostile” environment. Another review from a nursing student claims that instructors “pick and choose who they favor to pass” and that the program is unnecessarily difficult.
Poor Communication: Reviewers have complained about a lack of communication from the help desk, which does not answer the phone or return calls. This contributes to the administrative frustrations.
Questionable Program Design: Some students feel certain programs, like the nursing program, are designed to fail students to maintain high pass rates, despite the college’s official data showing high pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
Momentum
The reviews show a mixed but generally positive trend. The college is very active in responding to both positive and negative feedback, often providing a direct contact person for students with complaints. However, the same types of administrative and faculty issues appear in reviews spanning several years, suggesting these are persistent problems. Despite this, the college’s overall high rating is supported by numerous positive comments on its campus, affordability, and the positive experiences of many students and visitors.