February 1, 2002

BOISE STATE REPORTS LARGEST SPRING ENROLLMENT IN HISTORY

Boise State University’s spring semester enrollment jumped 6 percent over the previous year, the largest increase in more than 10 years.

With 16,847 students, Boise State set a new spring record, exceeding last spring’s enrollment by almost 1,000 students.

Mark Wheeler, dean of enrollment services, explained that enrollment typically drops from fall to spring semesters, but this spring the difference is only 314 students.

“We are pleased so many students have elected to attend Boise State,” said President Charles Ruch.

“We can accommodate our growth this semester and are now focusing our attention on several management strategies for the summer and fall terms so we can maintain quality during a period of budget reductions.”

Boise State’s Canyon County Center enrollment grew by 33 percent, with 1,452 students taking classes this spring. More than 1,100 students registered for Internet and computer-based courses, a 65 percent increase over last spring. Applied technology enrollment increased 11 percent.

The statistics also indicate students are taking larger class loads, with the number of full time students up 12 percent while part-time student enrollment decreased by 1 percent.

The strong enrollment figures may be the result of a record number of new freshmen who attended last fall and an increased number of new freshmen who entered this spring, said Wheeler. In addition, university enrollments often increase during slow economic cycles when people are looking for new skills or additional training.

“We are pleased we can assist those who may be affected by the recession. This is an area where higher education can help individuals get back into the work force and help rebuild our state’s economy,” said Ruch.

More information:
Mark Wheeler, Dean of Enrollment Services
Phone 426-2384