September 02, 2014
Freshman enrollment rises at SIU Carbondale
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Freshman enrollment at Southern Illinois University Carbondale increased 2.4 percent in fall 2014, while total enrollment increased slightly to 17,989 from 17,964 in fall 2013.
“We’re very pleased to see continued growth in new freshmen building on last year’s increase of nearly 13 percent,” said Interim Chancellor Paul Sarvela. “The entire campus community shares credit for this achievement, with special thanks to our admissions team for its dedication reaching out to students and families across the state and region.”
Sarvela added that the relatively flat overall enrollment is a positive sign that the university is turning the corner after 10 years of decline. He said the enrollment improvements are related to increased strategic outreach, a growing reputation and strong academic programs tied to the university’s research mission.
“As we build and retain our incoming classes and continue to attract transfer students, we anticipate seeing overall enrollment growth in future years,” he said. “I’m quite optimistic that we will sustain our momentum.”
This year’s freshman class of 2,632 comes from 32 states and 22 countries. Twenty-nine percent of the Class of 2018 is African American and 11 percent is Hispanic or Latino. Fifty-two percent of the class is female.
Other highlights from fall enrollment include:
- Enrollment of transfer students increased 2.3 percent.
- Off-campus enrollment increased just over 5 percent.
- International student enrollment increased nearly 25 percent, and enrollment of new international undergraduate and graduate students is the highest since 1985. The top five countries of origin are Brazil, India, China, Saudi Arabia and Taiwan.
For more information, contact Rae Goldsmith, chief marketing and communications officer, at 618/453-2589