USG releases Albany State University fall enrollment numbers

ALBANY – Albany State University’s fall 2018 enrollment experienced a slight decline from fall 2017. The current enrollment is 6,371, according to data released Wednesday by the University System of Georgia.

The University experienced a 3.7 percent decline from fall 2017 enrollment. It is a drop in enrollment by approximately 244 students.

The University has instituted new strategies to combat the enrollment decline. Strategies include:

  • Implemented an integrated student success framework that redefines the way the University understands, designs, and delivers services that are critical for the success of ASU students.
  • Launched an early warning alert system to help faculty members identify at-risk students and remove barriers to degree completion.
  • Started a Summer Success Academy to provide a comprehensive program of orientation and academic support designed to ease the transition from high school to college, while building a solid academic foundation.
  • Began to implement recommendations from the Student Engagement Experience task force in order to enhance campus life and streamline orientation, advising and registration processes.
  • Expanded enrollment services Ram Central offerings to include a call center that will give students the tools and information needed to navigate the enrollment process allowing students to focus more on their academic success.

“We have a targeted focus on improving our retention efforts and graduation rates, key components for new and returning student enrollment” said ASU President Marion Fedrick. “This fall, we welcomed 1,640 new freshmen to the university. This is a 13 percent increase from our fall 2017 class of incoming freshmen. We have a lot to be proud of, but we also recognize that there are several areas that need improvement. While higher enrollment is beneficial, having the ability to provide our students with the critical support and academic resources that they need for success is just as critical. A successful institution boasts healthy enrollment and a stellar student success model, all of which require funding and resources which is partially driven by enrollment.”

Kenyatta Johnson, vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Success, is optimistic about the steps taken to move the University forward. The institution anticipates a 3 percent enrollment increase for fall 2019.

“We have thoroughly evaluated the needs of our students and the institution to effectively address enrollment issues. We are already seeing positive feedback from the implementation of strategies like the University call center and the early warning alert system.”

University officials said more strategies will continue to be implemented throughout the academic year.

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