The University of Akron projects its strong enrollment growth in 2006 and 2007 will continue this fall semester, according to figures released today by Dr. Elizabeth Stroble, UA's senior vice president and provost and chief operating officer.
With freshman applications currently up 17 percent, fall registration figures project that total student headcount will be up 4 to 5 percent, and total student credit hours also will increase 4 to 5 percent. In addition, the Honors College freshman class also is up 5 percent from last year, and the number of students applying for the Postsecondary Enrollment Option Program (both on campus and via distance learning technologies) is up 20 percent.
Early introduction to higher ed
"The University of Akron's efforts to introduce high school students to higher education and to offer accessible and affordable high-quality options, through programs such as the Postsecondary Enrollment Option Program, our Akron Early College High School program and new Seniors to Sophomores partnerships, are showing positive results," Stroble says. "Our projected enrollment figures continue the significant growth that the university saw in both fall 2006 and fall 2007, where we achieved overall growth of 3.7 percent and 5 percent."
A dynamic campus known for innovation continues to draw talented students to The University of Akron, Stroble adds. Campus life includes the opportunity to study with and conduct research with award-winning faculty while enjoying the social activities available at a major metropolitan university. Strong academic programs, the additions on campus of the state-of-the-art Exchange Street Residence Hall and the Quaker Square complex, successful and competitive NCAA Division I athletic programs, and a tuition rate being held for the coming academic year all add to the appeal.
Easy decision to attend UA
Incoming University of Akron Honors College freshmen Sarah Brickner of Lexington, Ohio, and Paul Frank of North Canton say these factors made their decision to attend UA an extremely easy one.
"The University of Akron is an outstanding school that offers endless opportunities to grow as a person, and I am truly looking forward to becoming part of such a lively and successful community," Brickner says. "As a biology major, I am not only eager to explore the sciences, but also excited to meet new people, make lasting friends and experience moments that I know I'll never forget. It's going to be great!"
"I've noticed the growth at the university for the past few years, especially the new student housing facilities on campus and the plans for a new stadium," says Frank, who intends to major at UA in secondary education. "I think the university is a hidden gem in the area. It is in close proximity, and it has a lot of great things to offer."