Edison State College Welcomes Largest Student Body in School's History
Sep 2, 2009
Edison State College kicks off a new school year with the largest student population in the College’s 48 year history.
“We are proud of the many students who are returning to Edison State College, and welcome thousands of new students who have chosen Edison State to further their educational goals,” said Dr. Kenneth P. Walker, President of Edison State College. “I am impressed with the community’s positive response to our new offerings and our continued success in our core programs.”
The number of courses students have enrolled in is up nearly 24% over last Fall and nearly 16,000 students enrolled at one of Edison State College’s 5 campuses or centers. This figure represents 18.5% headcount increase over Fall 2008.
“What these figures tell us is not only are more students choosing Edison State College, but also each student is taking more classes than they have in years past,” said Dr. Noreen Thomas, Executive Vice President. “Research suggests students who take more credit hours per semester are more likely to have a clear education pathway.”
This increase comes on the heels of a 15% increase last year. The Florida Department of Education reports in the 2008-09 school year Edison State College experienced the largest enrollment increase of any of Florida’s 28 Colleges and Universities. (see attached document)
“We attribute the growth to several factors,” said Walker. “Edison State College now offers bachelor degree options and, right now, other Florida universities and colleges are turning students away, Edison State continues our tradition of providing students with an open door, and our tuition is the most affordable option in the area.
“The economy is also a factor, as unemployment continues many people turn to education to retool their skills.”
Breakdown of the number of students enrolled by campus:
Lee Campus – 9,358
Collier Campus – 2,822
Charlotte Campus – 2,107
Hendry/Glades Center – 470
Edison Online – 1,224
New this semester, Edison State welcomes the first class of students working toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 101 students are participating in the competitive program. Also in the health field, Edison State is offering a new Associate in Science Degree in Health Information Management. The program will prepare students to be medical records professionals and specialists in the management of electronic medical records. It was designed with close input from area hospitals.
To accommodate the enrollment growth Edison State has added more classes in the evenings and weekends. The College is offering more classes on line and in a blended format (a combination of on-line and traditional class room setting) as well as opening up new classrooms on certain campuses.
Last Updated: September 2, 2009
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