Enrollment at Kentucky State University jumped 6.6 percent this fall, the largest increase statewide at a four-year public university.
The Council on Postsecondary Education reported Monday that an estimated 2,834 students are enrolled at KSU this fall, up from 2,659 last year.
KSU spokeswoman Felicia Lewis said the university has put more emphasis on working with students from its nearby service county area, bolstered recruiting efforts and streamlined the admissions process.
Total enrollment in Kentucky’s public and independent institutions reached a record high of 254,560 this fall, based on a the report.
The estimated headcount is an increase of 12,970, more than a 5 percent increase over last year and a 40 percent increase over 10 years.
“This growth in enrollment is a very welcome development,” said Bob King, president of the Council on Postsecondary Education.
“It is now our challenge to support these new students with adequate faculty, career advisers, and available courses so they can earn the degrees they seek.
“All of this bodes well for enhancing the commonwealth’s economic recovery, creating the best educated and best trained workforce, exactly what 21st century employers are looking for.”
According to the report, Kentucky’s undergraduate enrollment increased nearly 6 percent over last year, while graduate enrollment posted more than a 3 percent gain.
The number of graduate students at KSU jumped by more than 22 percent, a figure Lewis attributes to an increased number of graduate assistantships.
The largest enrollment growth was seen at the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, which estimates that enrollment hit 100,000 for the first time. Community and technical college enrollments often spike during recessions as workers invest in new job skills.
Lewis says KSU has strengthened its partnership with KCTCS, enabling more transfers.
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