FLORENCE – Enrollment at the University of North Alabama for the Fall 2020 broke previous records on campus, with nearly 8,400 students enrolled, with the largest growth coming in online graduate programs. This indicates an approximate four percent increase in enrollment from Fall 2019.
“I am extremely satisfied with our final enrollment number for Fall 2020, which is the product of an intentional strategy,” said UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts. “We experienced significant gains among several student groups, most notably among our online graduate students.”
In addition to the overall enrollment growth, online graduate enrollment alone grew by 35 percent from 2019 to 2020. Also, approximately 77 percent of the freshmen who entered UNA in the Fall of 2019 opted to return to campus this fall, which indicates a record retention rate and places UNA well ahead of our peer group in the persistence of first-time, full-time students.
Dr. Ken Kitts
“Our record retention rate is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our dedicated faculty members and professional advisors,” President Kitts said.
The retention rate of 77 percent is a two percent increase from 2019, which is relatively rare, particularly amid a global pandemic
“In contrast to regional and national trends, UNA experienced notable growth this fall, with commensurate expansion of the ‘North Alabama brand,” said. Dr. Ross Alexander, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Simply put, enrollment growth is an indicator of the overall health and vibrancy of the University.”
Dr. Ross Alexander
The increased retention rates, including record retention, is vital to the University’s “Finish in Four” initiative, according to Dr. Alexander, as it empowers students to graduate on time and with minimal debt.
“There are many people to thank for our impressive enrollment outcomes, most notably Ms. Julie
Taylor and the Admissions team; Dr. Amber Paulk and Graduate Admissions; the five academic Deans; President Kitts; our talented online recruiters; and the amazing faculty,” said Dr. Alexander.
Media Release/Ms. Michelle R. Eubanks
Director
University Communications & Marketing
UNA
