Gordon State College’s Fall ’22 Enrollment Increases Amid USG’s Enrollment Drop Report
By Karolina Philmon, GSC Marketing Manager
University System of Georgia (USG) total enrollment for fall 2022 stands at 334,459 students attending the state’s 26 public colleges and universities with Gordon State College having a 1.4% enrollment increase according to USG’s semester enrollment report.
In fall 2021, GSC had an enrollment of 3,101 students. Being one of only eight institutions with an increase in enrollment, GSC registered 3,144 students for fall 2022. There were 17 institutions that had a decrease in enrollment with one remaining flat compared to last year. Overall, USG enrollment in fall 2022 remains more than 1,000 students higher than in fall 2019.
“This is an outstanding reflection of trusting in our strategic efforts and students having a better understanding of a Gordon experience,” said GSC President, Dr. Kirk A. Nooks. “We are thrilled to recognize this enrollment increase, a first since 2017. This is the Power of WE.”
Several trends contribute to the slight enrollment decline USG experienced for the second consecutive year. According to USG’s semester enrollment report released on Nov. 8, the current strong job market has attracted potential students as they chose to enter the workforce over higher education. National research has shown that financial uncertainty and the ongoing effects of the pandemic have also contributed to enrollment decisions. Learning challenges at the secondary level have affected whether high school students immediately decide to pursue college.
While dual enrollment across the system decreased by -14.9% compared to last fall, GSC is ranked second overall in the state college sector with 458 dual enrolled students.
“We are encouraged by this continued growth in enrollment, that students and parents are choosing Gordon and trust our commitment to their success. These outcomes are a direct result of the collective efforts of our dedicated staff and faculty and educational partners across the region,” said Dean of Enrollment Services, Melissa R. Johnson. “I am grateful for the energy they pour into our students and community and excited to see this impact rippling across the state.”
On a demographic level, USG’s student population continues to become more diverse as students identifying as Asian and Latino grew 7.5% and 2.7% respectively. There were slim declines in African American (-3.7%) and white (-4.6%) students.
USG’s annual fall semester enrollment report analyzes enrollment data by institution, age, gender, race and ethnicity, in-state, out-of-state and international students. The full report is available here.