Record Retention Rates Spur Spring Enrollment Growth

THIBODAUX, La. – All-time high fall-to-spring retention rates at Nicholls State University led to a 3.5 percent increase in enrollment.

The number of students on campus as of the 14th class day is 6,105, up 209 students from last spring. This is the first time that Nicholls has topped 6,000 students in the spring since 2013.

While Fall semester enrollments are impacted more by the addition of new students, spring semesters are affected by the retention of those students. This spring, the retention rate is 89.5 percent, up slightly from last spring’s record-breaking number. Fall-to-spring retention rates have spurred enrollment growth with five consecutive years of at least 86 percent.

“We are excited about these record-setting numbers,” said Alex Arceneaux, executive vice president for enrollment and external affairs. “This continued run of high retention is a testament to the campus-wide effort by our faculty and staff to create the single best undergraduate experience at Nicholls State University. As we turn our attention to future semesters, we will continue to strive to create a stimulating academic environment and engaging campus culture.”

In addition to high retention, Nicholls Online enrollment is up 59 students, a 13.4 percent increase, while dual enrollment increased by 147 students, a 69.6 percent increase.

“The most important investment we can make as a university is in the student experience, and that includes meeting the students where they are,” said Dr. Sue Westbrook, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Our student-centered online curriculum is just one way we are innovating to meet the needs of the Bayou Region and beyond.”