NWSCC sees third largest credit student enrollment in history

MUSCLE SHOALS & PHIL CAMPBELL – Northwest Shoals Community College (NWSCC) has enrolled the third largest number of credit students during a single semester in its 61-year history with 4,749 students, according to college records. This marks a 14.8 percent increase over the final enrollment number from last year (4,137).

The only larger semesters occurred during the fall 1992 and fall 1993 semesters.

Dr. Jeff Goodwin, president of NWSCC, expressed his excitement about the college’s continued growth. “Our enrollment surge is a testament to the hard work of our faculty, staff, and community partners who ensure that NWSCC remains a top choice for students seeking both academic and workforce development opportunities,” said Goodwin. “We are committed to providing pathways that meet the evolving needs of our students and local industries, and this enrollment growth shows that we are on the right track.”

According to NWSCC Dean of Students, Dr. Crystal Reed, the College set an ambitious goal of 4,500 students this fall. “After experiencing a 25 percent increase over the last two years, we are thrilled that we far surpassed the enrollment goal and registered over 4,700 students this fall,” said Reed. “Although we emphasize growth and numbers, our overall goal is to make a lasting positive impact on every student that chooses Northwest Shoals.”

During the 2023-2024 academic year, the NWSCC Workforce Development team enrolled over 1,400 students in non-credit skills training.

The College’s Carpentry, Design Engineering Technology, EMS, and Machine Shop programs had over a 20 percent increase in student headcount. In addition, Dual Enrollment students increased 34 percent.

According to Dr. Reed, the demand for dual enrollment continues to grow throughout the College’s service area more than ever before. “With the continued increase in dual enrolled students, we are being very intentional in having our student success coaches meet with our dual students. Our goal is to help them understand the career options they have available, especially at Northwest Shoals.”