Local college leaders tout value over university debt

Alvin and Brazosport college presidents stress record enrollment and affordable degrees

By John Toth / The Bulletin

Brazoria County’s two public community colleges are experiencing unprecedented enrollment growth this fall as students increasingly look to local two-year institutions over costly four-year universities.  

Alvin College President Dr. Robert Exley and Brazosport College President Dr. Vincent Solis highlighted their institutions’ expanding programs, affordable pathways, and direct career readiness while speaking at The Economic Development Alliance for Brazoria County Quarterly Membership Luncheon at the Central Brazoria County Business Park on Oct. 28.

Both college leaders reported all-time high numbers, with Alvin College topping 6,800 students – up from 5,532 in fall 2023 – and Brazosport College marking a record 14% enrollment surge.  

Addressing the cost differences between attending a local college and a traditional four-year university, Dr. Solis challenged the mounting debt burdens facing families today.

“When someone says, hey, I’m going to go to the university, that’s great,” Solis said. “But this is what I also hear. ‘But I’m going to rack up $200,000 in student loans, and I’m going to have a degree that I’m not going to not be able to find a job with.’ In fact, we have eliminated student loans. You cannot, and you will not get in debt if you come to BC”.  

Solis stressed that students can finish a four-year bachelor’s degree at Brazosport College for under $15,000, including tuition, fees, and books – less than the typical cost of a single semester at many major public universities.

Through expanded dual-credit courses in area high schools, students are also earning college credentials before finishing secondary school.  

“Mom and dad really like that, because they don’t have to pay for two years at the university,” Solis said. “University education is extremely expensive, so we can save parents two years of that. You get small, personalized instruction at a great price point; it’s an amazing value.”

Dr. Exley echoed the advantages of practical, career-centered degrees tailored to local economic needs without the high price tag.

Alvin College has seen enrollment surge in workforce-oriented bachelor’s degrees, technical certificates and allied health programs.

Exley noted that community college students are focused and goal-oriented.  

“Most of the students who respond to our survey data identify as workers who take classes, not students who work,” Exley said. “Success is not just ‘I finished, and got my degree.’ Success is the next piece that launched into the industry and the workforce.’’  

Both presidents underscored that community colleges eliminate financial barriers, provide accessible faculty and equip students with modern workforce skills.  

“Instead of sending them to a four-year university in the first two years, it’s cheaper, it’s faster, no loans,” Solis said. “You can’t beat the experience.”