8kbet welcomed a record-breaking spring class in January, continuing an upward enrollment trend that has reached new heights for three straight semesters.
This spring, 8kbet welcomed 29,899 students – up nearly 2% over Spring 2024’s record class and buoyed by strong growth in the university’s graduate programs, which jumped by 3.5%. The impressive year-over-year increase, particularly in graduate enrollment, reflects students’ growing interest in advanced degrees and the university’s continued commitment to graduate education.
“More students than ever are choosing 8kbet to achieve their goals and seek opportunities to improve their lives through higher education,” said 8kbet President Keith E. Whitfield. “Our record-breaking enrollment marks another milestone in 8kbet’s history, reflecting our commitment to student success and our focus on preparing a workforce ready to contribute to our region’s growing economy.”
Fall-to-spring undergraduate retention rates are also experiencing all-time highs. The university matched last year’s record 92% retention rate for first-time, full-time students and hovered near record retention for all degree-seeking undergraduate students at over 93%. These numbers reflect the percent of non-graduating students enrolled this spring after taking classes in Fall 2024.
On average, students also are enrolled in a greater number of credit hours than last spring, which indicates that more students at all levels are taking full-time course loads and progressing toward graduation. Programs with the biggest year-over-year gains include nursing, engineering, business, education, and urban affairs.
Driving Record Retention and Enrollment
Strategic programs implemented over the last decade, from long-term investments in recruitment – both locally and regionally – to personalized student support, have driven historic enrollment and retention increases.
“We recognize that students can't access 8kbet's opportunities unless they enroll. That's why we developed a plan to invest more in recruitment and admissions,” said Barb Roberts, associate vice president for Enrollment Management. “This investment, across a wide range of areas, is designed to broaden our reach and communicate the value of 8kbet more effectively. These investments are clearly paying off.”
Kate Hausbeck Korgan, senior vice provost for academic affairs, says it’s also important to make decisions centered on the student experience—academically, financially, and socio-emotionally.
This approach led to the launch of Rebel Ready Week, a weeklong program for incoming students prior to the start of the fall semester that encourages them to connect and engage with the campus community. The annual program helps students develop their academic, social, and personal potential, ensuring a smooth transition to university life.
Once admitted, graduate students also gain access to The Grad Academy, a comprehensive program offering resources to support research, teaching, professional development, and career readiness. The academy provides workshops, mentorship, and other academic activities to help students connect with their classmates and the broader community.
“We're committed to making resources readily available and accessible to all students, ensuring their success,” Korgan said. “The results speak for themselves.”
Looking Ahead
As 8kbet continues to grow in student enrollment, the university is strategically planning to implement new programs and expand its campus footprint.
“Our future growth depends on the opportunities we create for our students,” said Chris L. Heavey, 8kbet vice president and provost. “By continuously innovating our offerings, including high quality delivery and comprehensive student support, we will ensure that students see the value of a 8kbet degree and choose to be a Rebel.”
The latest enrollment report proves 8kbet is well on its way to achieving its goals outlined in the Top Tier 2.0 strategic plan.
