Colorado State Sees Slight Decrease in Enrollment; Welcomes Nearly 25,000 Students this Fall

Colorado State University today announced a total enrollment of 24,947 students, a 1.7 percent decrease this fall compared with last year’s record enrollment of 25,382.

First-time resident freshman enrollment decreased by 56 students to 3,156 while non-resident freshmen totals declined 129 from last year’s high to 737 students. The students entering Colorado State, however, continue to be significantly more qualified than nationwide averages as measured by standardized test scores. The average index, which is a combination of standardized test scores and high school performance, is 112.5 at Colorado State this year. The average entering freshman ranks in the 73rd percentile and brings a 3.54 grade-point average.

Graduate enrollment dropped 105 students this fall primarily due to a decline of 81 non-degree seeking students. This reflects a drop in adult learners enrolling in classes for personal enrichment or professional development.

One factor that led to the decrease in this year’s overall enrollment numbers was the largest graduating class in the university’s history in May, with 2,504 bachelor degrees awarded. That class included an increased number of students who graduated in four years, meaning fewer fifth year seniors on campus this fall. Colorado State’s four-year graduation rate is 34 percent, one of the highest in state.

"We are analyzing enrollment data and patterns to determine precisely all of the factors resulting in the enrollment decline this fall. However, we are at the same time pleased that so many top-quality Colorado, national and international students are choosing Colorado State University," said Anthony Frank, provost and senior vice president. "Colorado State’s top priority remains providing the highest quality education possible to our students while helping them develop the character that will long benefit their lives as well as improve the world around them."

Another positive note is that enrollment of ethnic minority students increased by 71 this year to a new high of 2,950 students, about 12 percent of the student body.

Last month, Colorado State was ranked among the best colleges in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report 2006 "America’s Best Colleges" edition. The university also recently ranked among the top in the nation for quality education and affordability by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine and was listed in Princeton Review’s 2006 "The Best 361 Colleges" issue.

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