University Communications and Marketing

MSU Billings’ Headcount Up for Spring 2018 Semester

University Communications and Marketing, 657-2266

When comparing spring 2018 semester to spring 2017 semester, City College increased enrollment by 14.4%, while University Campus had a decrease of less than 1%.

“We continue to see an increasing number of part-time students as many are employed in our community. We have planned our enrollment targets based on this trend. Our budget projected 2,955 full-time equivalent (FTE) students for spring 2018 semester. We exceeded our target with 2,980 FTE students,” commented Trudy Collins, Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance.

Other spring 2018 semester enrollment data, when compared to spring 2017 semester, shows:

• The number of students in Science and Health majors is increasing. Enrollment in the College of Allied Health Professions increased 2.9% led by a 45% enrollment increase in the undergraduate programs in the Health Care Services Department. The new RN to BSN program with an enrollment of 25 students has contributed to this growth. In addition, the Biological and Physical Sciences Department’s programs grew 6.8%.  
• The highest number of in-state students in three years at 89%.
• 56.4% of students are from Yellowstone County. City College had an increase of 23.6% of students from the county, while University Campus had a decrease of 1.2%.
• A 21% increase in Hispanic students on both campuses. Native American enrollment is also up 15% at University Campus. The number of female students at City College is up 20.5%.

Commented Dr. Joe Oravecz, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, “I’m pleased to see the growth in diversity of our student body at both campuses. This continues our commitment to diversity and inclusivity as we endeavor to be a welcoming learning community for all to pursue their higher education goals.”

The Dual Enrollment program played an important role in improving spring 2018 semester enrollment. The number of high school students taking college-level credit classes through the High School Connections and University Connections programs grew 48% for spring 2018 semester. There are 611 high school students enrolled for spring 2018 semester, compared to 413 for spring 2017 semester. Looking at two-year enrollment (spring over spring), the program has grown 122%. A state-wide program, Dual Enrollment, is experiencing growth on many campuses in the Montana University System.

Dr. Robert H. Hoar, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, commented, “MSU Billings’ decision to offer free tuition for High School Connections has been embraced by our community. We’re excited that more high school students are taking college-level courses through the University. Earning credits while still in high school gives them a great start on a future degree. We hope that their experience is a positive one so they consider furthering their education with us.”

Interim Chancellor Dr. Ron Larsen added, “Our student retention initiatives are also starting to make a difference. Some students entering college do not place into college-level math and writing courses. In the past, they were required to take developmental courses that did not count toward college credit. Our new program enrolls those students directly in college-level courses while providing additional academic support to help them succeed. This approach helps accelerate students toward degree completion while reducing their costs.”