MAUI LEADS COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN ENROLLMENT

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

The University of Hawaii reported a new record for spring enrollment with more than 50,000 students attending colleges within the 10-campus system. The Spring of 2009 enrollment surpassed the previous record set in 1995 by more than 2,400 students. The highest increase was seen at the UH West Oahu campus which experienced an 18 percent boost in enrollment.

Maui Community College here on the Valley Isle had the largest percentage increase out of the seven community colleges, with a 16 percent rise in enrollment-that translates to 457 additional students for a total enrollment of 3,309.

The flagship Manoa campus was the only one to report a decline-but with a loss of just 50 students, the .3 percent decline was comparable to enrollment the spring before when 18,768 students were enrolled.

2009 marks a second straight year of enrollment increases after the UH system experienced two years of decreases in 2006 and 2007.

“These record enrollments underscore the public’s willingness to invest in education and training-especially in tough times. The demand for what the university offers is at an all-time high. Our campuses have been successful in promoting their programs, retaining, and recruiting students,” said UH Vice President for Academic Planning & Policy Linda Johnsrud.

Overall, UH West O`ahu experienced the largest percentage increase in enrollment, with a total of 1,146 students, 18.1 percent or 176 more students, relative to a year ago. UH Hilo saw a 6.7 percent increase; Leeward Community College experienced a 10.2 percent increase; Hawai`i Community College enrollment was up 15.6 percent; Honolulu Community College was up 3.7 percent; Kapi`olani Community College was up 6.1 percent; Kaua`i Community College was up 15.7 percent; and Windward Community College saw a 10.6 percent increase over the same time last year.