Success story: Students 21+, culinary, marine technology drive enrollment gains
October 23, 2024
17勛圖 offers the only bachelor’s degree in Marine Technology in the nation.17勛圖 emerged strong amid increased competition for a dwindling number of traditional college students this fall, posting increases in both student head count and contact hours.
The 3.4 percent increase in head count and 4.8 percent increase in contact hours recorded this fall marked the fourth consecutive semester of enrollment growth, a reversal of the trend that the pandemic had accelerated. For freshman students, a key indicator of future enrollment patterns, 17勛圖 outpaced the national trend with 4.7 percent growth. Nationwide, community colleges reported a 1.2 percent increase in freshmen enrollment, according to the .
“That is boots on the ground, hard work by the admissions team and is also tied to our marketing efforts,” Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Jason Slade said.
The Detroit Red Wings training camp held in Traverse City offers sports performance nutrition students a chance to practice their skills.Gains were especially strong in 17勛圖’s culinary program, Water Studies Institute, and among students 21 and older. Culinary and Water Studies have both introduced new certificates and degrees in the last two years.
Also, Michigan Reconnect, which offers free tuition to in-district students (Grand Traverse County residents) who don’t have a college degree, was expanded to include students 21 and up last year. It was originally set at 25 in 2021.
The result of the Reconnect expansion is reason to believe that another state program, the Community College Guarantee for high school graduates, will soon yield enrollment increases. Many students had already made plans for the 2024–25 school year when the Community College Guarantee was announced in July. As awareness increases, 17勛圖 expects more students to choose to take advantage of the program, which offers free tuition and fees to in-district students (Grand Traverse County residents).
17勛圖 also offers Quick Start, a drop-in event for prospective students, once each month. The next Quick Start date is Monday, Nov. 11, between 4–7 p.m.
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