NEWS RELEASE

Contact: David West (west@nsula.edu )
News Bureau
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6466

9/18/2002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATCHITOCHES-For the first time in Northwestern State University's 118-year history, the institution has recorded an enrollment of more than 10,000 students. The University has recorded an enrollment of 10,159 students for the fall 2002 semester, an increase of 744 students or 7.9 percent over last fall's total of 9,415. The year to year increase in enrollment is the largest at Northwestern in 10 years.

"Achieving an enrollment of more than 10,000 students is a milestone for Northwestern State University," said president Dr. Randall J. Webb. "Over the past six years, we have placed a high priority on taking care of our students and ensuring that they receive the best possible education. The steady increase in enrollment is validation of the those efforts."

Northwestern increased enrollment on its main campus in Natchitoches as well as the Leesville/Fort Polk campus. The student population remained steady at its Shreveport campus, which houses the College of Nursing. The University also had more students taking classes electronically and in its graduate school.

"The increases in each of those areas is very encouraging," said Webb. "Our Leesville/Fort Polk campus has been impacted by recent military deployments. The Shreveport campus has been helped by the strong demand for graduates in nursing and allied health fields. The demand for graduate classes has remained strong."

A total of 2,751 students are taking classes offered by the Internet, compressed video or desktop video. This semester 761 students are taking electronic classes exclusively.

The University increased the number of first time freshmen by 6.7 percent from 1,641 to 1,751. Northwestern also increased its student retention rate from last year.

"Our increase in enrollment is the result of efforts by faculty and staff from throughout the University," said director of enrollment services Ina Agnew. "New initiatives by each college and academic department to attract and retain students were successful. Each department was willing to attend events and do what was needed to tell prospective students about Northwestern."

NSU also had an increase of 18 percent in transfer students from other institutions.

"We believe strongly in the quality of academic programs at Northwestern," said Webb, "The university's strong reputation is spreading and that is helping us attract good students and keep them here until they graduate."

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