BIG RAPIDS – Summer is generally a time for students to take a break from studying, but at Ferris State University more students are hitting the books this summer. This is the seventh consecutive year enrollment has been up at Ferris, with 6,025 students enrolled in summer coursework system wide.
At this time last year, there were 5,714 students enrolled system wide. University officials attribute continuing growth to several factors, including a $14-per-day summer room and board initiative; and a much better variety of course opportunities available in four-week, six-week, eight-week and 12-week summer class sessions.
“We really worked hard to make our summer program cost-effective for students,” Dean of Enrollment Services Kristen Salomonson said.
“During registration students said they really felt this was the best deal around that provided them an opportunity to take additional classes that will impact their course of study in the fall,” Salomonson added.
Listening to what students wanted, Ferris built a course schedule that provides flexibility for students so that they still get a month to 1.5 months to refresh before fall classes begin, she said. Students are still getting the break they need to be ready in the fall.
“Summer enrollment helps students complete their degrees in a timely fashion,” Ferris President David Eisler said. “Our relaxed and friendly environment, combined with the recreation opportunities here in Big Rapids, makes for a perfect setting for summer study.”
Besides its main campus in Big Rapids, Ferris offers degree programs in Grand Rapids at the Applied Technology Center and Kendall College of Art and Design, and at more than 17 off-campus locations throughout Michigan.