State enrollment numbers up

Fall enrollment is out and Utah's total enrollment in institutions of higher education is up by 8.5 percent. WSU has hit an all-time high for total enrollment at 21,674 students, this is an increase of more than 3,350 since fall 2007. Weber is currently the fifth largest non-private institution in the state as far as total headcount and had the second largest increase in numbers behind SLCC with an increase of more than 4,000. Other numbers include The University of Utah, with 30,228 total (a 431-student increase), Utah State University, with 23,925 total (a 496-student increase), Utah Valley University, with 26,696 total (a 2,856-student increase), and Salt Lake Community College, with 29,866 total (a 4,722-student increase). "This is an all time high for WSU enrollment," said WSU President Ann Millner of the recent release of statewide enrollment numbers. "It's indicative of great community outreach and the successful recruiting campaigns." The previous high for enrollment was in fall of 2003 with 18,821. Never before has WSU broken 20,000 until this year. University officials attribute this to many different factors, including more concurrent enrollment students, enhanced recruiting programs, and community outreach. More people return to school to further their education, and make themselves more valuable in the workforce, during periods of economic uncertainty. Another reason for increase is the fact there are more high school seniors graduating and attending college than in the past. WSU's total headcount is up 18 percent, with its full-time equivalent up 7.9 percent. The budget related full time equivalent is up 2.4 percent. "It reflects well on Weber State," said Provost Mike Vaughan. "People are realizing that college education is a good investment and that Weber is a good value. With out of state enrollment up, the residence halls are full and graduate studies have seen an increase in numbers. Online enrollment has increased, and now accounts for 17 percent of total enrollment. The higher concurrent enrollment numbers are because of a program of fall registration suggested by the Board of Regents. "In the past, most concurrent were not registered during the fall term, this year's numbers reflect the adoption of standard registration practices suggested by the Board of Regents." Weber State Provost Mike Vaughan said in a recent press release. Weber State is the fourth largest provider of concurrent enrollment classes in the state. "Concurrent enrollment is a high priority for Weber State University because it serves the needs of area students and local school districts." The recent "Get into Weber" marketing campaign is hailed with a share in the success. By raising awareness about the school, it drew a lot of interest towards Weber State. Recent budget cuts by the Utah State Legislature raised some concerns about tuition and other services being nailed. "We are still determining the impact of these cuts," said Bruce Bowen, Associate Provost of Enrollment Services, said. "However, students come first at WSU, and we are always cognizant of maintaining essential student services." Weber expects to see a steady but modest increase in enrollment over the next couple of years. Statewide enrollment in K-12 grades is showing significant increase and as such there is expected to be more college-bound seniors. "More individuals see the benefit of higher education and earning a college degree. I believe receiving a college degree dramatically increases one's lifetime earnings," said Bowen. "As we improve marketing efforts, expand on-line course offerings, gradually add masters programs, and work collaboratively with the concurrent enrollment program we will attract more students to WSU."