VALLEY CITY (VCSU) – Valley City State University (VCSU) has hit a new milestone by enrolling 1,827 students this fall, marking the third year in a row of record-breaking enrollment. Since 2012, the university has seen a 34% increase in student numbers, setting new records in 12 of the last 13 years. This year’s figures include 1,663 undergraduates and 164 graduates, surpassing last year’s record of 1,806 students.
Retention rates are also on the rise. The retention rate for first-time full-time students jumped to 77%, a six-point increase from last year and the highest in VCSU’s history. Overall retention hit 73%, up three points from the previous year.
Dr. Alan LaFave, the university president, credits this growth to the hard work of faculty and staff and the positive campus experience they provide. “This reflects the growing confidence that students and families have in our quality programs,” LaFave shared.
VCSU’s student body is diverse, with attendees from 37 states and 8 countries, although 74% are from North Dakota. The university’s growth stems from significant investments in campus improvements and strong partnerships. VCSU allocates nearly $2 million in scholarships each year and is currently enhancing its facilities through the Forward Together Capital Campaign.
Recently, VCSU celebrated the reopening of McCarthy Hall, which underwent a $13.5 million renovation to accommodate its acclaimed School of Education. They also broke ground on the Tharaldson Family Athletic Center, which is set to enhance athletic facilities by next fall.
In the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, VCSU was named the Top Public Regional College in North Dakota and ranked No. 2 in the Midwest. This recognition underscores the university’s commitment to providing valuable education; a survey found that 98% of students felt their education was worth the investment.
The 2024-25 academic year also saw VCSU confer a record 537 degrees, including 295 undergraduate bachelor’s degrees, the highest since the 2018-19 academic year.
Additionally, VCSU’s graduate school also reached a fall enrollment record with 164 students, a 6% increase from last year and a whopping 30% jump from 2023. These graduate programs primarily serve K-12 educators and have been offered since 2005.
James Boe, Dean of Graduate Studies, expressed pride in the growth of these programs: “Their commitment to lifelong learning strengthens their classrooms and benefits their students.”
Overall, VCSU’s enrollment data showcases an upward trajectory in student engagement and satisfaction, emphasizing its role as a leading educational institution in the region.
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