UA Little Rock sees most significant enrollment increase in 15 years
September 16-22, 2024
By Angelita Faller
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is celebrating a significant enrollment milestone. The Fall 2024 census reveals the university’s largest enrollment growth in 15 years. This marks the most substantial increase since Fall 2009, reflecting the university’s continued efforts to enhance access and increase affordability.
UA Little Rock’s undergraduate enrollment increased by 3.7 percent, with 5,434 students enrolled this fall compared to 5,242 in Fall 2023. The university also saw a remarkable rise in undergraduate applications (16.7 percent) and admissions (19.4 percent). Although graduate enrollment declined slightly, dropping from 1,535 to 1,479, this was primarily due to a decrease in international student numbers.
“This enrollment growth is a direct result of the hard work and creative thinking of our faculty, staff, and leadership teams,” said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. “Everyone at UA Little Rock has a role in creating an environment that welcomes students and supports their success. These enrollment figures reflect that collective effort.”
The combined undergraduate and graduate enrollment increased by two percent compared to Fall 2023, with student semester credit hours rising by four percent. These figures do not include concurrent high school students or those enrolled at the William H. Bowen School of Law, which are reported separately.
Freshmen and transfer student growth fuel enrollment surge
UA Little Rock experienced significant increases in first-time freshmen and transfer students.
First-time freshman enrollment surged by 28.9 percent, rising from 357 students in Fall 2023 to 460 in Fall 2024. This marks the second-highest first-time freshman percent increase in the university’s history, closely trailing the record-breaking 30 percent increase in 2022.
Transfer student enrollment also saw unprecedented growth, with an 18.2 percent increase over last year. Transfer students increased from 665 in Fall 2023 to 786 this semester, the highest percentage increase in transfer enrollment ever recorded at UA Little Rock.
Undergraduate colleges see rise in enrollment
UA Little Rock has seen a rise in enrollment across all three undergraduate colleges, marking a period of growth and success. The College of Business, Health, and Human Services (CBHHS) reported a 4 percent increase in undergraduate enrollment, with Interim Dean Thomas Clifton highlighting several standout academic programs driving this progress.
“It’s gratifying to see our quality programs being recognized across the college,” Clifton said. “Notably, Nursing enrollment has risen by 4 percent, Accounting, Economics, and Finance by 10 percent, and Management, Marketing, and Technology by 5 percent, contributing to a significant overall increase in CBHHS enrollment. These increases have significantly contributed to our college’s overall success. I am deeply appreciative of the effort everyone has put into making this success possible.”
In the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Dr. Jeff Connelly, interim dean, emphasized the growing demand for professionals in STEM fields and the college’s role in meeting that need.
“We are thrilled to witness growth in enrollment in the Donaghey College of STEM this fall,” Connelly stated. “With an impressive 6 percent increase in college enrollment compared to last year, it’s evident that our commitment to providing high-quality education in STEM fields is resonating with students.”
The Donaghey College of STEM has experienced growth in key programs, including Civil and Construction Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical and Computer Engineering.
“Moreover, the 3.3 percent improvement in student retention in the college reflects our dedication to not only attracting talented students, but also supporting their academic journey through to graduation,” Connelly said. “Our classrooms are noticeably fuller, and this vibrant atmosphere is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and staff. We look forward to continuing this positive trend and further advancing our programs to meet the growing demands of our students, central Arkansas, and the State.”
Scholarship initiatives drive affordability
“UA Little Rock continues to lead in affordability, and we are thrilled to see more families choosing our institution due to our unwavering commitment to accessible, high-quality education,” said Dr. Cody Decker, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Chief Data Officer. “The growth in freshman and transfer student numbers highlights how our focus on reducing financial barriers empowers more students to pursue higher education.”
The university’s scholarship initiatives have been key to reducing costs for students and families. Last year, UA Little Rock launched the Trojan Guarantee, a scholarship covering full tuition for Pell-
eligible students. This program builds on the Half-Off Scholarship, introduced in 2020, which offers significant tuition discounts to students regardless of income.
“Receiving the Trojan Guarantee Scholarship has made college affordable for me because my only remaining expenses are books and personal items,” said Alejandra Villa, a freshman criminal justice major. “It’s a relief not to worry about tuition, and I can focus fully on my studies. I chose UA Little Rock because it’s close to home, and there are so many opportunities to get involved on campus.”
A strategic focus on student success
In addition to scholarship support, UA Little Rock has made substantial investments in its academic programs, campus facilities, and industry partnerships. These efforts include expanding internship opportunities and enhancing hands-on learning experiences, providing students unique advantages as they prepare for careers in Arkansas’s Capital City.
“We have worked diligently to balance affordability with enhancing the quality of our academic offerings and campus environment,” added Dr. Decker. “It’s gratifying to see that these efforts resonate with students and families, as more students choose UA Little Rock for their higher education journey.”
Photo Captions:
1. UA Little Rock students enjoy the newly completed Trojan Way, a vibrant north-to-south promenade across campus, and the revitalized Ottenheimer Library Plaza during the fall 2024 semester.
2. UA Little Rock students celebrate the first day of the fall 2024 semester on Aug. 19.
3. Faculty, staff, and students in the School of Business participate in the Carnival of Clubs event connecting students to campus and community resources.
Photo Credit:
All photos by Ben Krain
