Purdue Touts Record Enrollment
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowPurdue University has a new record for overall enrollment on the West Lafayette campus. The university says the 41,573 students enrolled in the 2017-2018 academic year is an increase of more than 1,100 from the previous year.
The enrollment number includes just over 31,000 undergraduates. Kristina Wong Davis, vice provost for enrollment management, says some of the growth can be attributed to a record number of freshman applications, which neared 49,000.
"The increase in enrollment speaks to the continuing and overwhelming demand for a Purdue education," said Wong Davis. "Families recognize our institution is a good investment – that Purdue delivers on its commitment to preparing students for life-long success."
The incoming freshman class totals 7,567, which is marks the largest freshman class since 2006. Purdue says the class is also one of the most academically prepared in history with an average GPA of 3.75. The class also includes 103 new National Merit Scholars.
Additionally, the university says four- and six-year graduate rates increased to 58.5 percent and 78.7 percent, respectively, marking another all-time record. The one-yea retention rate stands at 91.6 percent.
Purdue joins a number of institutions reporting record enrollment numbers, including IUPUI, Indiana Tech, Grace College & Seminary, Ball State University and Indiana State University.