Small Gains Keep KSC Enrollment at High Level

KEENE, N.H. 10/14/04 - Enrollment figures for the fall at Keene State College reflect both a continuing stability in student numbers and the meeting of College goals, say KSC officials.

A total of 4,362 undergraduates are now pursuing a four-year degree, with 101 graduate students enrolled in KSC’s master of education program, to exceed last year’s record number of degree-seeking students by 27. In addition, 737 students are currently enrolled in the College’s Continuing Education program.

College officials expect the numbers to level off, with first-year classes continuing to number between 1,000 and 1,100 students. “This modest growth reflects the College’s attempt to find the best balance between enrollment and resources,” said Jay V. Kahn, vice president for finance and planning. He points out that the first-year class in 2004 is not the largest - that distinction belongs to the class entering in 2002 - but that successes at keeping students at the College beyond their first year have brought the total numbers up.

“Our retention rate from first to second year is 77 percent,” Kahn said, “which is higher than most other colleges considered our peer institutions.”

Kahn also points out that more students than ever are enrolled full-time - reflecting their interest in completing a degree in four or five years, but also contributing to the demand for on-campus housing. “One of the highest priorities of our facilities master planning is to create more attractive housing for students, for two reasons - so that more have the academic and social benefits of living on campus and to reduce the pressure on the Keene housing market.”

For more information, call Jay Kahn, vice president for finance and planning, at 603-358-2114.