Record Enrollment Celebrated at LSU Shreveport
Shreveport – LSU Shreveport (LSUS) has announced an impressive achievement as it welcomes a record number of students this fall. With a total enrollment of 10,851, the university has seen an 11% increase from Fall 2023 and a remarkable 24% growth compared to Fall 2022. This marks the second consecutive semester of record enrollment for LSUS, indicating a growing interest in higher education in the region.
Who is Involved?
LSUS Chancellor Robert Smith expressed pride in the institution’s faculty and staff for their dedication to both recruiting new students and retaining current ones. “This success is a clear testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff,” he stated. “The retention rate has risen dramatically this year, which highlights the commitment to student success across the university.” The current enrollment numbers include both undergraduate and graduate students, reflecting LSUS’s efforts to enhance its educational offerings.
What are the Numbers?
This fall’s 10,851 enrollment includes 2,733 undergraduate students, the highest figure since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Additionally, the number of first-time freshmen, which stands at 301, marks the first increase in new students since the pandemic. The graduate programs at LSUS also set a new record with 8,118 students, a 13% increase from the previous year. This growth trend highlights the university’s appeal to both new and continuing students, especially as 5,376 graduate students have chosen to stay on and complete their degrees.
When and Why Did This Happen?
The enrollment figures were made public in October, coinciding with the launch of LSUS’s second accelerated fall session. This growth is credited to a strong focus on student retention and success, with the university actively working to create programs that align with the needs of students and the demands of employers. LSUS aims to offer an education that equips graduates with skills that increase their employability and economic mobility.
Additional Highlights
The university is also among only 11 institutions nationally participating in a program to enhance the early college experience, led by the John Gardner Institute and Complete College America. This initiative represents a commitment by LSUS to innovate in the educational experience and improve student outcomes.
Furthermore, LSUS has received commendation for its performance in the state’s annual Economic Mobility Index. For the second consecutive year, the university ranked highest in Louisiana for its ability to help low-income students achieve economic stability through well-paying job placements post-graduation. Nationally, LSUS placed in the top 20% of colleges in this index, according to a study published by Third Way.
Conclusion
The record enrollment figures at LSUS not only showcase a growing interest in education but also reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to student success. With continuous improvements in retention rates and program offerings, LSUS is poised to remain a vital educational institution in the Shreveport area and beyond as it prepares students for brighter futures.
