Northern Michigan University's 10th day fall enrollment report shows an increase of nearly 3% in overall student headcount fueled by growth in first-time freshmen, graduate students and Global Campus online enrollment. Other strides include a record-setting retention rate and positive momentum in attracting diverse student populations, both of which align with goals identified in the university's new strategic plan.
The total fall headcount is 7,409, an increase of 212 students over last year.
"We're thrilled to see our enrollment numbers continue to climb, especially in light of the challenges facing higher education today—challenges that are even more pronounced for regional public institutions like ours,” said Jason Nicholas, assistant provost and director of Institutional Effectiveness. “Our incoming freshman class has grown for the second consecutive year, building on last year's impressive 10% increase. Additionally, our graduate programs are experiencing unprecedented growth, with the highest count of degree-seeking students in at least the last 20 years. These figures reflect the increasing value and appeal of an NMU education in a competitive landscape."
Continuing graduate students are up by 30.5%, leading to an overall increase in the graduate population of 18.3%. Continuing undergraduate enrollment showed strong gains of 4.1%, and
Global Campus enrollment is up nearly 20%, driven largely by last year's large classes working their way through their degree pathways and gains in other programs.
Nicholas said the bachelor's degree retention rate, measured by how many students remain enrolled from the first to third semester, took a hit during the disruptive COVID-19 outbreak. That figure has not only rebounded, but now exceeds the pre-pandemic level.
“At NMU, student success is at the heart of everything we do,” Nicholas added. “We are proud to report that our bachelor's degree retention rate has reached a record high of 78%, showing the strength of relationships between faculty and students, along with key investments in advising and student support services. This achievement, coupled with our strong continuing student population counts, demonstrates that our efforts are paying off. As we look to the future, guided by our new Strategic Plan - Our Compass, we're once again re-committed to building on this momentum and pushing our student success indicators to even greater heights.”
The diverse representation on campus is bolstered by a 49.1% increase in African American students, with the number climbing from 114 last fall to 170. The Native American population is up by 29.2%, with 124 enrolled this semester. Both contributed to a 15.2% increase in students of color attending NMU this fall.
Learn more about Northern's “Our Compass” strategic plan here.