Sept. 5, 2024
Ferris State enrollment increases as students see benefits of transformative education, unmatched college experience
Ferris State University’s enrollment increased this fall, providing more students with opportunities for a transformative education and memorable college experience.
The annual count day tally indicated 9,959 students enrolled for the fall 2024 semester. The university is welcoming 1,689 first-year students this fall, a 5.2 percent increase, and 720 transfer students who chose to continue their education at Ferris State.
Jeanine Ward-Roof, Ferris State’s vice president for Student Affairs, said she was excited to see an increase in first-time students, gains among African American and Hispanic students and an increase in retention rates.
“The enrollment increase shows that people recognize the value of a Ferris State education, the strength and relevance of the instruction we provide, and a university experience they’ll remember for the rest of their lives,” she said. “Ferris State this year celebrates its 140th anniversary, and we proudly remain focused on the mission set in place by founders Woodbridge and Helen Ferris – providing a quality education for people in Michigan.”
The overall enrollment increase of 41 students from the prior year and the first increase since 2015.
Enrollment of African American students increased by 95 students, an 11.2 percent boost, and the number of Hispanic students is up by 27, a 4.3 percent increase. Both are the largest totals since 2019.
Ward-Roof said students are attracted by Ferris State’s small class sizes and programs providing hands-on experiences that prepare students for rewarding careers.
The university boasts Michigan’s only College of Optometry, a leading College of Pharmacy, the largest arts and design program among state universities at the Kendall College of Art and Design. The PGA Golf Management program was the first in the nation, and its Master of Information and Intelligence program ranks among the nation’s elite.
Ward-Roof said campus housing is 96 percent occupied and President Bill Pink last month announced plans are underway for an innovative residence hall attached to Top Taggart Field. A vibrant, welcoming campus scene includes more than 220 clubs and organizations and nationally ranked athletics programs. The Big Rapids campus in West Michigan is perfect for students who enjoy outdoors activities.
The university also is expanding support services for students to help them be successful. Last month Ferris State announced a partnership with Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services to provide increased mental wellness support and cut the ribbon on the Bulldog Pantry to assist students challenged by food insecurity.
“We’re proud of the enrollment increase, but we know there are so many more people across our state who can benefit from that Ferris State offers,” Ward-Roof said. “We still have much to do.”