MSU administrators seeking to continue trends in increasing enrollment are visiting local high schools to tout the degree programs offered by the university and assist prospective students with the application process and financial aid.
Data show that Murray State University welcomed its largest ever freshman class in 2020, with registration up 5.8% from 2019. This is the second consecutive year that has seen the freshman class size grow, the first time in nearly a decade that an increase in students has extended past a single year. Increases were also noted in incoming transfer students and graduate program students. Looking to expand this trend, MSU administrators are continuing efforts to reach out to local high schools for freshman recruitment.
This year's incoming freshman class consists of 1,503 students. The freshman class boasts students from 28 states. Other notable statistics regarding the incoming freshman include: Six percent increase in students from underrepresented minority communities, almost eight percent of incoming freshmen were high school valedictorians, and seventy-one percent of the freshman class have already earned some college credits through dual enrollment programs. MSU President Dr. Bob Jackson cited the university's recognition in national publications, such as US News & World Report naming MSU a "Top-Tier University" for 30 consecutive years. "Students and families of our region, state and beyond see our nationally-recognized academic programs, our rankings as one of America's best college values, and the many exciting enhancements on campus.," Dr, Jackson stated in a recent article published by local news outlet, KFVS.
Administrators are aiming to continue the positive trend in enrollment with its high school outreach programs, which include visits to local schools to promote Murray State and advise prospective students on the degree programs offered and to provide information about partnerships in place between MSU and local school districts. One of the most successful partnerships allows high school students to earn both high school and college credits at the same time, giving the students a head start on their post-secondary degrees. Prospective students also learn about the application process and opportunities for financial aid.