UACCM Sets Spring Enrollment Record

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton has reported a record-setting enrollment of 1658 students for the spring 2008 semester, an increase of 5.2 percent above the spring 2007 semester. The official report was submitted to the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) on the 11th class day.  

Full-time students make up 65 percent of the student body. Thirty-five percent are considered part-time students, enrolled in courses ranging from 1 to 11 credit hours. 

Students enrolled in technical, business, health, and service-related occupational programs account for 47 percent of the student body. Students pursing Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees, two-year degrees designed for university-transfer, also account for 46 percent of credit students. The remaining 7 percent are non-degree seeking students, undeclared majors, and concurrently enrolled high school students.

The average age of total student enrollment is 25 years of age. Students residing in Faulkner County make up 40.3 percent of UACCM students. The remainder of the student body is comprised of individuals from Conway County, 21.6 percent; Pope County, 16.2 percent; Van Buren County, 6.6 percent; Perry County, 5.4 percent; Yell County, 5.4 percent; and counties outside UACCM’s bordering service area, 4.5 percent. 

The full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment also increased by 52.5 to 1223.1. FTE is determined by converting the part-time student enrollment into a full-time equivalent, or dividing the student semester credit hours by 15 credit hours. The state uses the FTE number in its funding formula. 

According to UACCM Director of Public Relations and marketing Mary Clark, spring enrollment numbers are generally not as high as those during fall semesters, as the influx of graduating high school seniors from the previous school year typically enroll during the fall semesters. That fact, combined with the decrease in enrollment due to large numbers of December graduates, usually causes enrollment numbers to fall slightly in the spring. 

Clark says college officials are pleased with the enrollment numbers. Clark stated, “Our growth in recent years shows that more people are valuing the importance of a college education than ever before. We take pride in the affordability and accessibility of UACCM to members of the community and the surrounding areas. As we continue to grow and add new programs in response to the needs of the state, the economy and ultimately the quality of life of area residents will improve. UACCM is proud to be a contributing factor to that improvement.”

UACCM is a two-year, public college located in Morrilton. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, UACCM provides a comprehensive curriculum of university-transfer and technical and career-oriented programs, as well as adult education, community outreach, and workforce education programs.