South Dakota Public University System – Number of Students Increase

PIERRE, S.D. – Fall enrollment at South Dakota’s six public universities remains stable, according to data released today. After a slight dip last year, headcount enrollment is up by 327 students, nearly a one percent increase, the South Dakota Board of Regents announced Tuesday. Full-time equivalent enrollment, however, was down less than one percent following a modest increase the previous year.

The total headcount for the six public universities was 36,430. The number of full-time equivalent students for the Fall 2012 term—based on total credit hours generated by all students within the system—decreased by 251.3 students to a total of 26,468.4, or 0.94 percent.

“I am pleased that the headcount enrollment has increased and we are serving even more students. The modest decrease in FTE can be attributed partly to adult learners enrolling in the university system to finish or start degrees while still working fulltime. These students do not carry a large credit load,” said Jack Warner, the regents’ executive director and CEO. “Our universities, through distance learning and the university centers, are doing a great job of fulfilling the needs of the part-time student,” Warner said.

SOURCE Press Release