Arkansas State University in Jonesboro has achieved another milestone in its enrollment growth, reaching a record-breaking 18,775 students this fall. The 4.7% increase from last year’s total of 17,926 marks the sixth consecutive semester of record enrollment for the university.
Interim Chancellor Dr. Calvin White Jr. credited the growth to a combination of factors, including a rise in Arkansas freshmen, improved retention rates, and surging demand for graduate programs. “Arkansas State is increasingly becoming a university of choice for students from across our state, region, and beyond,” White said. “This growth underscores the opportunities we are creating, the investments we are making in our students and programs, and the work of our faculty and staff.”
This year’s incoming freshman class totals 2,247 students, with 2,045 domestic first-year students at the Jonesboro campus. Arkansas residents make up the majority, with a record 1,851 incoming Arkansan students—82% of the freshman class. First-year college students are also showing interest in on-campus living, with 1,576 freshmen residing in university housing, which is operating at almost full capacity.
Retention rates among continuing students have also climbed. This fall, 7,138 undergraduates returned to the Jonesboro campus, reflecting a 7.8% increase over the prior year's 6,623. University College Dean Dr. Nikesha Nesbitt emphasized the importance of fostering student success and belonging. “We want students to build relationships, find support when they need it, feel inspired to succeed, and ultimately leave A-State with a degree in hand,” Nesbitt said.
Graduate enrollment posted substantial gains as well, reaching 5,743 students, including 1,904 new graduate students—a 21.5% jump from last year. This includes the inaugural class of 120 students at Arkansas' first College of Veterinary Medicine, which aims to meet the state's growing demand for veterinary professionals. Interim Provost Dr. Will McLean noted, “Sustained growth in our research enterprise and our graduate and professional programs confirms that A-State has established itself as a comprehensive university that supports students at every stage of their academic and professional journey.”
Total credit hours rose to a record 170,003 this semester, up 5% from last fall, reflecting a broader trend of increased academic engagement. Since fall 2022, when the university reported 14,109 total students, A-State’s enrollment has grown by more than 33%.
Arkansas State University, the state’s second-largest university, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and classified as a Research 2 institution by the Carnegie Foundation. With over 160 degree programs, the university continues to expand its academic portfolio, offering educational opportunities ranging from undergraduate studies to advanced graduate and professional programs.