In a continued record-setting trend, Indiana University East has increased fall enrollment by nearly 20 percent.  Both enrollment (2,924) and credit hours taken (28,926) for the fall semester reached record highs for the campus.

The enrollment growth (19.5 percent) represents an increase of 477 students compared to last fall.

IU East has had continuous significant enrollment growth since fall 2007.  This fall’s growth in enrollment and credit hours taken is once again the largest among all IU campuses.

Chancellor Nasser Paydar said the campus is fulfilling its mission as the region’s leader in baccalaureate and graduate education.

“We have created an affordable and accessible higher education system in east central Indiana,” said Paydar. “As is demonstrated by our remarkable enrollment growth, area residents are responding and showing great confidence in the quality of our academic programs.”

This incoming freshman class of 400 students is the largest ever, a 22 percent increase from last year’s group.  Ninety percent of the freshman class entered directly from high school as traditional students, including a 39 percent increase in new students from Richmond High School and a 32 percent increase in students from Connersville High School.

“We are extremely pleased that area high school students are making IU East their university of choice to earn a bachelor’s degree,” said Paydar.  “The increase in both the quantity and quality of students bodes well for our communities.  These students will build their success here, and as graduates, enhance the region’s economic development and quality of life.”

This year’s freshman class enters IU East with higher average SAT and ACT scores than last fall.  There was a 35 percent increase in the number of new students with Core 40 and a 24 percent increase in new students with Academic Honors.

IU East has experienced growth in other areas as well.

The number of transfer students to IU East is up by 13 percent. The campus has continued to offer tuition reciprocity to students living across the state line in six Ohio counties. Enrollment of Ohio students receiving tuition reciprocity increased by 32 percent.

Each of IU East’s seven academic schools has experienced an increase in students enrolled in degree programs. Enrollment for the Master of Science in Education and the Master of Social Work also increased substantially. The graduate programs increased by 64 percent in enrollment compared to last year.

Enrollment figures are not official until approved by the President of Indiana University.