(LAKE WORTH, Fla. – Oct. 14, 2022) Palm Beach State College remains ranked among the top 100 Colleges and Universities for Hispanic students, according to an annual list published by Hispanic Outlook magazine.

PBSC ranks 34th for the total associate degrees granted and 48th for total enrollment among four-year schools.

The Top 100 Colleges and Universities for Hispanics rankings, published in Hispanic Outlook Oct. 11, is based on 2020-2021 U.S. Department of Education data from surveys.

“PBSC is very proud of our rankings.  As a Hispanic Serving Institution, we are not only committed to recruiting but supporting our students to complete their program of study and secure high-paying jobs,’’ said Dr. Peter Barbatis, vice president of student services and enrollment management. “Many of our Latino students are not only first-generation college students, but first-generation Americans. A postsecondary education credential is critical to propel them to economic security and prosperity.”

PBSC’s latest data indicates that Hispanics are the largest student population at the College and remain among the fastest growing. In 2014, the U.S. Department of Education designated PBSC as a Hispanic-Serving Institution.

To qualify for the Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program, PBSC’s enrollment had to reach at least 25% Hispanic in the year prior to applying for the designation. PBSC reached the required threshold in 2013. Hispanics now make up 34% of the student population.

The HSI designation allows PBSC to pursue federal grants to expand educational opportunities and improve academic attainment for Hispanic students. The College has received two Title V grants, including one for $3 million awarded in 2020.