RU sets enrollment records

Radford University’s fall 2013 enrollment has set a school record of 9,928 students.

RU's fall 2013 enrollment includes 8,913 undergraduate and 1,015 graduate full-time and part-time students. This year’s undergraduate enrollment is also a record for the University.  By comparison, the fall 2012 enrollment included 8,610 undergraduate and 963 graduate students.

Additionally, retention among the returning freshmen cohort (Class of 2016) increased by four percent, compared to the previous year, and is the highest since fall 2008.

Radford University’s enrollment has increased yearly since fall 2009 for a total of 1,050 students. This trend is despite a recent U.S. Census Bureau report that national college enrollment declined in the fall of 2012 for the first time in six years.

"Our enrollment growth and increased retention speak highly of our reputation as a student-focused institution," said RU President Penelope W. Kyle. "I think these trends validate that the diversity of our programs, commitment to our students, and offering of a quality education are very attractive to our students and their families.  Radford University is a school of choice to help our students realize their goals."

Reflective of RU's growth and diversity, the Class of 2017 is composed of 1,986 students from 314 Virginia high schools and 138 out-of state and international high schools, and represents 16 different nations. Nearly one-third of the class is from northern Virginia.  More than 38 percent of the new freshmen are first generation college students, a more than four percent increase over fall 2012.  Nearly 30 percent of the new class identify themselves as ethnic minorities, with 12.8 percent as African American and 6.6 percent as Hispanic/Latino. 

Radford University is a comprehensive public university of more than 9,900 students. RU serves the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation through a wide range of academic, cultural, human service, and research programs. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 191-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The university offers 69 degree programs at the undergraduate level, and 21 master's programs and three doctoral programs at the graduate level. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Athletic Conference, Radford participates in 19 varsity sports—11 for women and eight for men. Since 2005, the university has secured approval and funding for nearly $300 million in capital projects, including both new construction and renovation.

Learn more about Radford University at www.radford.edu.

Sep 11, 2013
Joe Carpenter
(540) 831-7270
ljcarpenter@radford.edu