
About
Vermilion Community College is located in Ely, Minnesota. VCC was founded in 1922 and was originally known as Ely Junior College. The school has received many name changes over the years, with Vermilion Community College being the most current.
VCC is built on the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness which has a history of being utilized by the school for outings related to research and education. Vermillion is dedicated to student-centric education which is possible through small class sizes, a small student body, and a dedicated faculty.
Academics
Vermilion Community College offers students the opportunity to pursue various goals and interests through one of the many programs offered. Students may choose to pursue academic transfer through the completion of the first two years of a four year education at VCC, followed by applying for transfer to a colleges and universities to continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree.
Technical and career programs provide education in a specific field, preparing individuals for entry into the workforce as a qualified professional. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree.
Programs offered include:
Admissions and Financial Aid
As a public, two year institution that maintains an open enrollment policy, any student wishing to enter Vermilion Community College may do so by completing an application and paying all accrued fees. Students should supply transcripts and test scores, and may be required to take a placement exam.
Participation in student orientation and meeting with a counselor to discuss goals and curriculum are also encouraged. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial aid must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), used by the school to determine financial aid awards for students.
Estimated Costs & Financial Aid
The average "out of pocket" cost of attendance, after any grants and scholarships are considered, is around $10,200. In order to calculate a more accurate and detailed cost of attendance check out their cost calculator here. There is also a $20 application fee for those applying to a program. The figures listed below are for informational purposes only and do not represent current or future tuition, fees, and expenses.
Tuition & Fees Information
- Annual tuition range:
- State Residents: $4,700-$5,700
- Out-of-State: $5,900-$7,093
- Charges per unit:
- State Residents: $160-$190 per credit unit
- Nonresidents: $200-$240 per credit unit
Financial Aid Details
The table below breaks down the types of financial aid, the percent of students receiving aid, and average amount of aid per student per year.
Percent of Students | Average Amount | |
---|---|---|
Any Financial Aid | 88% | - |
Receiving Grants & Scholarships | 62% | $4,253 |
Receiving Student Loans | 73% | $6,100 |
Admissions, Academics, & Student Services
Student Services
To help students and recent graduates, Vermilion Community College may offer services to students like:
- Distance learning
- Remedial instructional courses
- Academic counseling for students
- Student employment
- Assistance to find work
Graduation & Transfer Rates
Many community colleges are not only a source of technical or career training but also a stepping stone for students to transfer-out to a 4-year college, therefore we have included both graduation and transfer rates below and how this school compares against other community colleges in St. Louis County and community colleges in Minnesota as a whole.
Vermilion Community College | St. Louis County | Minnesota | |
---|---|---|---|
Graduation Rate | 31.8% | 32.7% | 27.3% |
Transfer-out Rate | 34.6% | 23.8% | 21.3% |
Programs Offered
The program list below is organized by areas of study. The programs that have a link will direct you to the program's profile page where you can learn more about education requirements and career pathways.

Get more information about the programs offered by Vermilion Community College by clicking the request information to the right.
(C) Certificate or Award | (A) Associate's | (B) Bachelor's | (M) Master's Degree | (D) Doctorate (PhD,...)
Agriculture Operations
- Taxidermy (C)
Business and Marketing Studies
- Commerce (A, C)
- Entrepreneurship (C)
- Small Business Management
Engineering Technology
Health and Clinical Professions
- Emergency Care Attendant (C)
- Therapeutic Recreation
Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Liberal Arts (A)
Natural Resources and Conservation
- Natural Resources Law Enforcement and Protective Services (A, C)
- Environmental and Wildlife Management (A, C)
- Wildlife and Wildlands Science and Management (A)
- Land Use Planning and Management or Development
Physical Sciences
Recreation and Fitness Studies
- Outdoor Education (A, C)
- Sports Management (A)
- Parks and Recreation Management
Security and Protective Services
- Police Science (A)