The first weeks of Tusculum College enrollment for 2016-2017 has passed last year’s numbers. This year’s entering residential class totals 368 incoming freshman and transfer students, an increase of 15 percent over 2015-2016.
The official registration total was announced by LeAnn Hughes, vice president for enrollment management and marketing and director of the Graduate and Professional Studies program for Tusculum College, who said that the number includes 296 entering freshmen, 52 transfer students and 20 new international students.
“Tusculum College’s residential program continues to grow for a number of reasons,” said Hughes. “Our unique Civic Arts focus takes the liberal arts a step further in a nationally recognized approach to educating individuals of integrity and ideals. Additionally a wide range of majors – from museum studies to nursing – are combined with service learning and travel opportunities to create a completely unique environment.”
Officials at the college are pleased to see the fruits of its expanded enrollment and retention efforts, furthering the goal of serving the region with accessible, affordable higher education opportunities.
Dean of Students David McMahan also reported that housing numbers are up for this fall at the college. There are currently 792 in-residence students, up 46 from fall 2015.
“Tusculum College was founded in 1794 to serve a population that had no other access to the opportunities of higher education,” said Dr. Nancy B. Moody, president of Tusculum College. “Today we continue that tradition by continuing to provide access and opportunity to many students who would not otherwise be able to further their dreams through higher education.”
Hughes said the college will continue to recruit new students and is still accepting applications and registrations for students who will be able to start classes in either Block Two or in January, the beginning of the spring semester.
Enrollment numbers also reflect an increased focus on keeping enrolled students on campus until graduation. Tusculum’s support service for students provides everything from tutoring to book loan programs to help students achieve their dream of a college education. To this end, Tusculum College retained 68.2 percent of the first-time, full-time undergraduate students who enrolled during fall 2015.
“We are reassured that students and their parents are realizing that even in difficult economic times, an education is a valuable investment, and we are pleased that so many of those families have chosen Tusculum College as a place where they feel confident their student can be successful,” said Hughes.
In addition to the college enrollment, Tusculum College currently has 63 students from high schools across the region enrolled in dual enrollment courses. Tusculum offers a variety of courses and course options for high school students wanting to get a head start in their college career or needing specific classes. The courses are offered online, a convenience for students in not having to drive to campus during the school day, and scholarship and financial aid assistance is available.
Anyone interested in enrolling at Tusculum College, may still register. For registration information, contact the Office of Enrollment at 423-636-7374.