SmartAsset, an online platform providing consumer-focused financial information and advice, has ranked Wayne Community College at No. 4 on its 2024 Best Community Colleges in the U.S. list.

WCC was ranked based on criteria including full-time retention rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and in-state tuition and fees.

Two-year schools that offer associate degrees with at least 500 full-time enrollees were ranked using data from the 2022–2023 school year. A total of 616 schools were ranked.

“We are honored to be ranked fourth best community college in the U.S. by SmartAsset,” said WCC President Patty Pfeiffer. “This recognition highlights our ongoing efforts to deliver outstanding educational experiences and support our students’ success. It’s a proud moment for our college community and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students.”

Of the top 20 community colleges on SmartAsset’s list, 65% are in North Carolina. The state’s other schools ranked in the top five are Randolph Community College (second) and Durham Technical Community College (third).