University of Michigan continues to buck enrollment trend, sets record for applicants
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The University of Michigan continues to buck the state’s trend, setting a record with more than 105,000 applicants for the Fall 2024 term.
College makes tuition-free guarantee for low-income students across Michigan
The university announced last week that more than 98,400 first-year students have applied for admission in the upcoming fall — up nearly 12% from nearly 88,000 applications for last fall.
University officials believe the things that separate U-M from other schools are what have allowed them to buck the enrollment dips seen at most other colleges across the state.
“Our exceptional faculty, cutting-edge facilities and technologies designed to enhance the educational experience and vibrant campus environment are just a few of the numerous factors driving the increasing interest in our university from high-achieving students,” Adele C. Brumfield, the vice provost for enrollment management, said in a statement.
Disenchanted with debt: Can Michigan colleges rebound from enrollment drops?
The university says they are seeing increases across a wide range of demographics, including a rise in first-generation students, students of color, international students and students from low-income families.
Most admissions decisions for first-year and transfer students have already been released. Students who were admitted have until May 1 to formally accept a position.
A study published last May by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center found that total college enrollment across the United States is down approximately 7% from 2019 to 2023, with the rate slipping faster each year before bouncing back this past spring.
A separate survey conducted by Junior Achievement illustrates why. Approximately 76% of teens believe they can get a “good job” with only a two-year degree or technical certification and only 41% believe a “good job” requires a four-year degree.
After 126 years, U.P.’s only private college to close
While the definition of a “good job” is left open to interpretation, it speaks to the gap between what the next wave of high school graduates believe and how today’s economy operates. The survey shows that financial concerns top the list for scaring students away from college.
“College is the second-largest investment many Americans will make behind owning a home,” Junior Achievement USA President Jack Kosakowski said in a statement. “While a four-year degree isn’t right for everyone, and on-the-job training and certifications are very valuable in many career fields, those who are interested in pursuing a degree need information on how to best pay for higher education, and even find ways to reduce costs.”
As of 2023, enrollment was down at nine of Michigan’s 12 largest schools. Michigan State University and Michigan Technological University, along with U-M, were the only three to post-enrollment gains.
Oakland University, Wayne State University and Grand Valley State University had slight declines. Schools like Western Michigan University, Ferris State and Central Michigan University have seen more drastic drops. CMU’s enrollment dropped more than 40% between the 2012-2013 school year and the 2021-2022 school year.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
