September 28, 2017

 photo of the MSU Billings university campus in Fall

 

MSU Billings’ Enrollment Up for Fall 2017 Semester

 

Contacts:

University Relations  and Communications, 657-2266

 

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — MSU Billings saw increased enrollment for the fall 2017 semester.  At its official 15th class-day count, 4,401 students are enrolled.  This headcount is up from 4,366 students in fall 2016.  Of the 4,401 students, 2,830 are at University Campus and 1,571 are at City College.

 

The number of students from Yellowstone County (2,391) is the highest it has been in three years.  Student retention is also growing.  One-year retention rates for first-time freshmen are up from last year.

 

“The fall headcount numbers are a step in the right direction.  It shows that more students are choosing MSUB,” said Dr. Robert H. Hoar, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.  “We are also encouraged by improvements in student retention, which has been a focus for our faculty and staff. Our student success initiatives are progressing.”  He adds, “These are the indicators that we want to see trending up.”

 

Commented Dr. Joe Oravecz, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs,  “The diversity of MSUB is growing.  We are seeing an increase in various components of our student body, which provides a more dynamic and inclusive campus environment.”

 

Other fall 2017 semester enrollment information shows:

  • MSUB continues to be an increasingly diverse campus as evidenced by a 10% growth in the number of Native American students.
  • Montana resident undergraduate enrollment continues to grow.
  • More students are transferring to MSUB to further their education.
  • MSUB is attracting more part-time students. For example, the number of students enrolled in Dual Credit through the High School Connections program has increased by over 100 since last year.
  • MSUB continues to be the leader in the number of online courses in the Montana University System with record online enrollment.

“MSUB is committed to our mission of Access & Excellence,” commented Interim Chancellor Dr. Ron Larsen.  “We strive to provide programs and services that meet the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students.”

 

For more information or questions, please contact Shannon Wilcox, Director of University Communications and Marketing, at 657-2243 or swilcox@msubillings.edu.