- Founded in 1968 as a part of the Virginia Community College System, Tidewater Community College (TCC) serves South Hampton Roads with 4 campuses in Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach and 7 regional centers. The college also boasts 2 important cultural institutions. During the 2017-18 academic year, nearly 1 in 5 recent high school graduates made TCC their "school of choice." The college has 13 nationally accredited academic programs.
School Highlights
Tidewater Community College serves 16,884 students (31% of students are full-time).
The college's student-teacher ratio of 41:1 is higher than the state community college average of 37:1.
Minority enrollment is 57% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the state average of 55%.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Enrollment: 16,884 students
- In-state tuition: $185
- Out-state tuition: $385
- Student-teacher ratio: 41:1
- Minority enrollment: 57%
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Tidewater Community College ranks among the top 20% of public schools in Virginia for:
School Overview
The teacher population of 413 teachers has declined by 63% over five years.
Tidewater Community College
(VA) Community College Avg.
Carnegie Classification
Associate's Colleges
Associate's Colleges
Institution Level
At least 2 but less than 4 years
At least 2 but less than 4 years
Institution Control
Public
Private, non-profit
Total Faculty
413 staff
39 staff
School Calendar
Student Body
The student population of Tidewater Community College has stayed relatively flat over five years.
The student-teacher ratio of 41:1 has increased from 17:1 over five years.
The Tidewater Community College diversity score of 0.71 is more than the state average of 0.00. The school's diversity has grown by 7% over five years.
Total Enrollment
16,884 students
924 students
Student-Teacher Ratio
41:1
37:1
# Full-Time Students
5,197 students
585 students
# Part-Time Students
11,687 students
795 students
# Enrollment Undergraduate
16,884 students
924 students
# Full-Time Undergraduate Students
5,197 students
415 students
# Part-Time Undergraduate Students
11,687 students
795 students
% Asian
5%
8%
% Hispanic
11%
14%
% Black
29%
22%
% White
43%
45%
% Two or more races
7%
5%
% Non Resident races
1%
2%
% Unknown races
3%
4%
Diversity Score
0.71
0.00
College Completion Rate (Students who graduate in less than 4 years)
28%
42%
Average Graduate Earnings (10 Years)
$33,400
$29,600
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
The public in-state tuition of $185 is less than the state average of $3,581. The in-state tuition has declined by 96% over four years.
The public out-state tuition of $385 is less than the state average of $8,577. The out-state tuition has declined by 96% over four years.
In-State Tuition Fees
$185
$3,581
Out-State Tuition Fees
$385
$8,577
Tuition Notes
TCC's 2019 in-state tuition rate is $185.35/credit hour.
% Students Receiving Some Financial Aid
66%
86%
Median Debt for Graduates
$9,800
$10,500
Median Debt for Dropouts
$5,500
$5,500
Source: 2025 (or latest year available) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) , School Administrators
School Notes
- School Mascot: Stormbird
- TCC has awide variety of programs, from the academic disciplines to skilled trades to professional specialties. Many of our students go on to 4-year colleges and universities, and many more complete degrees and certificates that help lead them to rewarding careers in in-demand fields. TCC is regionally accredited by theSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Collegesto award the associate degree.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- John Doe, Notable Author -
- Jane Smith, Award-winning Scientist -
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Tidewater Community College cost?
Tidewater Community College's tuition is approximately $185 for In-State students and $385 for Out-State students.
Who are famous alumni from Tidewater Community College?
Tidewater Community College famous alumni include: John Doe, Notable Author and Jane Smith, Award-winning Scientist.
What is Tidewater Community College's ranking?
Tidewater Community College ranks among the top 20% of community college in Virginia for: Diversity in US community colleges and Largest student body.
In what neighborhood is Tidewater Community College located?
Tidewater Community College is located in the Downtown neighborhood of Norfolk, VA.
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