Increases noted in new students direct from high school and returning students
Cedar Rapids, Iowa (September 15, 2015)-Overall credit enrollment numbers at Kirkwood Community College have remained stable for the fall of 2015. As part of those numbers, the college has seen a significant increase in the number of students direct from high school.
Enrollment for the fall semester is 14,727, which is a slight increase from the fall of 2014 when enrollment was 14,708.
The number of students coming to Kirkwood directly from high school is 2,056, which is up significantly. Last year at this time, the count stood at 1,813. Kirkwood also realized increases in enrollment for in-state students, out-of-state students, international students and students of color.
“The increase speaks to the high quality and outstanding value of our academic and co-curricular programs and the collective efforts of faculty and staff to effectively serve students,” said Vice President, Student Services Jon Buse. “Students are doing their research, and they understand the value of a Kirkwood education. The numbers tell us that we are reversing a national trend.”
According to the American Association of Community Colleges, in the fall of 2014 the overall enrollment for public two-year institutions was down 4.8 percent. To combat this decline, Kirkwood has continuously made strides toward increasing enrollment and improving student success. College officials have focused on initiatives such as mandatory orientations and offering new programs that are not only very desirable to perspective students, but also effective at addressing regional workforce needs as well.
“As the community’s college, it’s important to address both the educational and workforce needs of the region,” said Buse. “A well-educated community benefits us all.”