MSU reports spring enrollment records

Missouri State University has set a spring enrollment record both at its Springfield campus and on a systemwide level.

In Springfield, enrollment stands at 19,919, surpassing 19,715 in the same semester of 2012. At the West Plains campus, 1,768 students are enrolled - and with 58 students enrolled at both campuses - the systemwide total reaches 21,629, according to a news release.

Taken on Missouri's official enrollment census date during the 20th day of classes, MSU officials pointed to the William H. Darr School of Agriculture for roping in the largest percentage increase in enrollment. The department's 488 students represent 13 percent increase from 432 last year.

“Generous donors continue to provide new opportunities for agriculture students,” MSU President Clif Smart said in the release. “Norm Shealy’s recent gift of his 250-acre Fair Grove farm – which includes farmland, livestock, a conference center and other structures – will allow us to expand our cattle operations.”

Spring enrollment also was bolstered by a 59.9 percent increase to 178 students in MSU's executive Master of Business Administration program; a 40.4 percent increase to 212 students in the English Language Institute; a 20.5 percent increase to 1,004 students taking courses primarily online; and a 6.8 percent increase to 1,953 students receiving high school dual credit.

“Students are interested in having more options in how and when they take classes,” Smart said in the release. “In response, in recent years we’ve increased the number of classes and degrees that are offered in the evenings or online.”[[In-content Ad]]