For the fourth consecutive semester Indiana University East has experienced the highest rate of enrollment growth among all Indiana University campuses, according to preliminary figures from the first day of classes.

First-day (Jan. 19) enrollment for spring 2010 was 2,627 students, an increase of 13.8 percent compared to the same period last year.  Students are taking 27,603 credit hours, up 17.2 percent from last spring.  These figures set a new historic high for spring semester enrollment at IU East.

IU East has had continuous significant enrollment growth since fall 2007.

Chancellor Nasser Paydar said that IU East has created an affordable and accessible higher education system for residents of eastern Indiana and western Ohio.

“We are committed to providing high-quality academic programs and growing IU East in order to increase the educational attainment in our region, accelerate its economic development, and enhance the quality of life of its citizens,” Paydar said.

All of IU East’s academic schools have experienced enrollment increases, with enrollments in online courses and programs particularly strong, according to Larry Richards, executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs.

“Our leadership in developing online programs for those students who cannot drive to Richmond every day or who work during times when classes are being offered, as well as students who live in other states and are looking for the types of program we offer online, has been a key to our success,” Richards said.

“The interest in online courses and programs is growing every year, and IU East should be well-positioned to adapt to the changes occurring in higher education throughout the country and to serve the mobile, tech-savvy students of the future.”

Official enrollment figures will be released January 26.