Feature photo courtesy of MTSU
Story by Maia O’Brien
For the second year in a row, MTSU’s enrollment rates grew with a 1.7% increase this fall.
A new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) was introduced for this fall semester, causing confusion and problems for students across the nation. However, MTSU admissions workers and faculty worked hard to encourage and support students through the enrollment process.
“I appreciate the work of Laurie Witherow and our academic deans, and faculty in keeping enrollment headed in a positive direction,” said MTSU President Sidney McPhee.
McPhee praised MTSU staff for how their work helped increase the number of students.
There are now 20,540 students at MTSU, which is 342 more than last year. Specifically, there was a 1% increase in freshman and a 3% increase in transfers. The graduate enrollment saw a decrease of 67 students.
MTSU’s sustained growth is a good sign when many colleges struggled to raise numbers during and after COVID-19, according to McPhee.
McPhee also expressed plans to continue the growth in enrollment. On Sept. 11, they began working on the 13 stops of the True Blue Tour. The president and other officials go to schools across the state, including a school in Alabama, to meet with students and their families.
Additionally, an increase in enrollment numbers helps to show MTSU as a top university in the country. The Princeton Review named MTSU on its list of the best colleges and universities in the nation for the sixth year in a row. Their list of the most active student governments in the nation named MTSU as 20th. It was one of six public universities to appear on the Review list.
The Wall Street Journal named MTSU on its list of America’s Best Colleges 2025. This was the university’s first time on the list. The list is made from surveys from current students and alumni on multiple aspects of their university and learning.
“Being named one of America’s Best Colleges for 2025 means MTSU is a leading college in the nation, known for its exceptional learning environment, outstanding student outcomes, and commitment to diversity,” McPhee said.
McPhee plans to continue to raise enrollment and support their current and new students. He said MTSU also plans to continue to be a standout school among others in the country.
Maia O’Brien is a contributing writer for MTSU Sidelines.
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