Newman University officials announced today slight increases have resulted in another record-high fall enrollment for the university. According to the official federal enrollment report following the 20th day of fall classes, 3,108 students are enrolled for the fall 2012 semester compared to last year’s 3,021, an increase of 2.8 percent.
This is the fourth year in a row Newman has experienced record-breaking enrollment. The fall 2011 overall enrollment of 3,021 represented a 9 percent increase over the 2,746 students in the fall 2010 semester, and a two-year increase of 15 percent over the 2,557 students in fall 2009.
“With the economic challenges still facing our region, we are delighted to see enrollment increase, albeit slight.” said Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. “What is particularly exciting to me is the fact the average ACT composite score of Newman’s incoming freshman class increased. This year the average ACT composite score is 25, up two points from the last two years. That says a lot about our growing reputation for academic excellence.”
The number of undergraduate students again showed gains in both headcount and credit hours. A total of 1,396 undergraduates enrolled for the fall 2012 semester, a 2 percent increase over the 1,369 in fall 2011. Full-time equivalency (FTE) for undergraduates is up 5 percent over last year with 1,522.07 compared to 1,447.87 last year.
In addition, nearly 1,000 area high school students are benefiting from Newman’s dual credit program by taking college credit courses while still in high school. “The opportunity to complete college credit while in high school is a huge plus for students and parents,” said John Clayton, dean of admissions for Newman University. “It’s also a great way to introduce high school students to the academic work needed at the collegiate level, and it’s easier to manage financially since high school students only take a few credit hours at a time.
“The toughest area for growth right now is the adult population,” Clayton added. In particular, Newman’s graduate programs saw an overall decrease of approximately 80 students when considering new and returning students. Nationally, it’s a tough time for these students trying to balance work and education. They’re cutting back expenses and being very cautious about their financial commitments, which is understandable.
