Minneapolis, MN – September 26, 2023 – North Central University (NCU) proudly announces enrollment growth for new students, defying national trends that have seen a decline in college enrollment. NCU, an institution dedicated to academic excellence and Christian values, has achieved outstanding results thanks to its commitment to fostering an inclusive and enriching learning environment.
“We are immensely proud of our vibrant and growing community,” says Dr. Doug Graham, Interim President. “These enrollment increases reflect our commitment to providing a transformative education that empowers students to reach their full potential, even in the face of challenging national trends.”
Bucking the Trend
Freshmen Enrollment Surges by 5%: In an era where many educational institutions face enrollment challenges, NCU has experienced a substantial 5% increase in freshmen enrollment compared to the previous year. This achievement is a testament to NCU’s appeal to students seeking a transformative and faith-based education.
Diversity on the Rise by 3%: NCU places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, and this commitment has resulted in a 3% increase in diversity in new students, making total diversity rates at 36%. NCU is proud to welcome students from diverse backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives within the university community.
19% Growth in Graduate Students: NCU has also witnessed an impressive 19% increase in graduate student enrollment. This growth reflects NCU’s reputation for offering advanced education and specialized programs that meet the evolving needs of today’s learners.
Applications Soared with a 22% Increase: NCU’s reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to Christian values led to a remarkable 22% increase in applications for the fall 2023 semester. This surge in interest underscores NCU’s position as a preferred choice for students and families seeking a holistic educational experience.
Defying National Trends:
These achievements at North Central University stand in stark contrast to national trends in college enrollment. College enrollment in the United States has been declining since 2010. In the past decade, total college enrollment has dropped by about 1.95 million students, or by about 10%. The undergraduate college enrollment decline has accelerated since the pandemic began, resulting in a loss of nearly 1.4 million students, or almost 9% of total enrollment, between spring 2019 and spring 2023.*
As NCU celebrates these significant accomplishments, the university remains steadfast in its mission to provide high-quality education that nurtures both academic excellence and spiritual growth. NCU is dedicated to preparing students to excel academically, lead with integrity, and positively impact their communities.
President Doug Graham adds, “These enrollment numbers reaffirm NCU’s role as a beacon of academic excellence and spiritual growth. We are excited to continue our journey of empowering students to make a meaningful difference in the world.”
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming both new and returning students to North Central University for the upcoming academic year.
* https://www.bestcolleges.com/research/college-enrollment-decline/