Missouri State University sets enrollment record

The Springfield campus at Missouri State University is more crowded than ever.

The school opened its fall semester Monday with 17,385 students, an increase of 743 students - 4.5 percent - over opening day in fall 2008. Opening day enrollment at MSU-West Plains was 1,953 students, up 14 percent.

Another 1,268 students are enrolled online, at outreach sites and on the university's China campus.

At the current rate, MSU officials estimate that total system enrollment will top last year's record of 21,688 by up to 700 students, marking the first time enrollment has topped 22,000 systemwide. Official enrollment reports will be available Sept. 24.

"These enrollment numbers indicate an exceptional start to this year for Missouri State," said Missouri State President Michael T. Nietzel in a news release. "We are very pleased that so many new and returning students are pursuing their education with us, and we are committed to giving them an outstanding education."

Nearly half of the total jump is due to "readmits," students returning to the school after a year or more away from classes.