Utah’s public colleges and universities are seeing another increase in student enrollment this fall semester.

The first “snapshot” of student enrollments for the 2017-18 school year (fall semester, third week) shows the number of students at the state’s public colleges and universities increased by 4,869 students, for a net increase of 2.78 percent over Fall 2016. This increase is on top of last year’s increase of 4,739 students.

The percent increase in full-time equivalent (FTE)* students was slightly larger, at 2.92 percent, which indicates more students are attending college full-time.

For more information, see our enrollment dashboards.

“It’s great to see so many students choosing to attend college, as it will make a significant difference in their future earnings, career opportunities, and quality of life. Our colleges and universities are working hard to ensure courses are available and student services are continued for all students,” said Dave Buhler, Utah Commissioner of Higher Education. “As we anticipate adding over 60,000 students in the next decade, it will be increasingly important to continue to receive legislative funding to keep higher education accessible and affordable for all Utahns.”

Eight out of ten Utah high school graduates who enroll in college attend one of Utah’s public colleges and universities – the primary talent pipeline for Utah’s fast-growing workforce. With over 180,000 students, together the state institutions would rank as the state’s second largest city.

Differences in enrollment growth between USHE institutions reflect the distinct mission of each institution and how external factors, such as changes in the economy and changes in individual academic programs, impact each institution.

*Total FTE approximates the number of students enrolled full-time each semester (15 semester hours for undergraduate students; 10 semester hours for graduate students).