The number of students taking classes at The University of Toledo in the fall semester increased by 267 students, marking the first enrollment gain in six years.

Total enrollment for fall semester 2016 is 20,648, according to official 15-day census numbers. UT had 20,381 students enrolled in fall semester 2015.

Along with adding students who came directly from high school or transferred from other institutions, the University also increased by 2.2 percent the first-year to second-year undergraduate retention rate.

“We are thrilled with the increase in enrollment,” President Sharon L. Gaber said. “UT provides an excellent education, and we are proud to offer that experience to more students. We have now reversed the previous declining trend and look forward to continuing a positive momentum moving forward.”

This is the third year that UT has experienced an increase in its retention rate. As part of the University’s efforts to retain and graduate more students, Dr. Brian Ashburner was named recently to the new position of vice provost for retention and undergraduate studies. He is responsible for coordinating the many programs UT offers to its students to ensure their success.

The fall 2016 enrollment includes an increase in both undergraduate and graduate students. There are 16,247 undergraduate students currently enrolled, an increase from 16,068 this time last year. There are 4,401 graduate and professional students, an increase from 4,313 in fall 2015.

Significantly, the fall 2016 enrollment is not only higher than fall 2015, it also is higher than the 20,626 students enrolled two years ago in fall 2014.

The Division of Enrollment Management, led by Interim Vice President Stephanie Sanders, continues to work with consultant Ruffalo Noel Levitz on a strategic enrollment plan to develop long-term strategies to position UT for continued growth.

Media Coverage
13 ABC (September 2, 2016)