[hr]Jackson State University’s fall 2020 enrollment saw only a slight decline since fall 2019.
The university’s current preliminary enrollment is 6,921, or a 1.6 percent decline, and represents a difference of 99 students from last year’s preliminary figure of 7,020.
Higher education institutions nationwide have been facing declining enrollment over the past decade. Additionally, three major reporting agencies predicted college enrollment would be down 5 to 20 percent this fall due to mitigating factors further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, JSU appears to be faring well despite concerns.
Acting President Thomas K. Hudson credits university efforts for their nominal enrollment decrease.
“In light of necessary changes due to COVID-19, including mostly virtual classes and limited occupancy in residence halls, we anticipated a 5 percent or more drop in enrollment and planned for such. We are happy that in this unprecedented environment, our efforts to mitigate any negative effects have helped us exceed our expectations,” says Hudson.
He also expresses gratitude to the school’s COVID-19 task force, Division of Enrollment Management, the Division of Online Learning, the Division of Academic Affairs, and the Division of Finance and Administration.
Hudson adds that the school will continue to focus on recruitment efforts and ensuring students’ academic success as they enter the second semester of virtual and hybrid instruction.