Southern Miss Reaches Record Enrollment; Freshmen numbers up

Enrollment at The University of Southern Mississippi has reached an all-time high, as a fourth-straight record freshman class and an emphasis on student retention have pushed overall enrollment up by nearly five percent.

A duplicated enrollment record of 17,968 represents a substantial increase over the Fall 2010 semester, and includes another record freshman class that is eight percent larger than a year ago.

“We are thrilled, but not surprised, to see so many first-year students making Southern Miss their university of choice,” said University President Dr. Martha Saunders. “Recruiting and graduating students remain top priorities for this university, and we continue to be committed to creating the most enjoyable and rewarding university experience for our students.

“Our enrollment strategy calls for steady, incremental growth so that we can maintain reasonable class sizes and effectively meet student needs. These numbers allow us to continue to do that.”

While the size of the 2011 freshmen class is notable, its quality is as equally as impressive as its quantity. The class is highlighted by 49 freshmen who have accepted Presidential Scholarships, the University's most prestigious academic scholarship. These students all have ACT scores of 30 or higher as well as proven records of achievement inside and outside the classroom.

“This bodes well for our future,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Joe Paul. “We welcome not only the largest, but most academically able freshman class in our history.”

In addition to the Presidential Scholars, 145 new students have enrolled in the Honors College, which offers unique active learning and research experiences to students who excel academically. These students all have ACT scores of 27 or higher with an average score of 30.

“We had a significant uptick in applications this year, which is a testament to the fine programs we offer in the College,” said Honors College Dean Dr. David Davies. “The enthusiasm of this year's freshmen class is palpable, and I'm expecting great things from this group.”

The enrollment figures include 14,795 students registered for courses in Hattiesburg and 3,167 students registered for courses at the Gulf Park campus or teaching sites along the Gulf Coast.

Complete fall enrollment figures are:

 

 

 

*Location figures are duplicated figures that include students who may be registered at more than one Southern Miss campus or teaching site.