Missouri Western State University is reporting a second consecutive year of spring enrollment growth, fueled by a significant rise in student retention and a surge in local freshman enrollment.
According to recent spring census data, the university’s total headcount rose to 3,132 students, a 1.52% increase over the previous year. This growth highlights a sustained upward trend for the institution following several years of strategic reorganization.
The most significant data point in the census was a 5% increase in overall Fall-to-Spring retention. University officials noted that the gains were particularly strong among non-traditional students. Retention for adult learners (ages 25 and older) jumped 7%, while traditional student retention saw a 3% uptick.
“MoWest continues to build meaningful momentum, not only in who is choosing us, but in how well we are supporting students once they arrive,” said Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, president of Missouri Western. She attributed the success to a sharpened focus on the student experience and expanded support initiatives.
The university saw a major influx of new degree-seeking freshmen, with an increase of 126 students compared to last spring. Much of this growth originated locally; Buchanan County student headcount rose by 8.54%, while total enrollment across the university’s entire service region grew by 3.82%.
New student pipelines also showed modest but steady gains. Transfer enrollment increased by 2.9%, and new first-time, first-year students rose by 2.33%.
The enrollment report highlighted several academic programs that are driving current interest. Growth was most notable in healthcare, education, and technology sectors, including:
- Physical Therapist Assistant (AAS)
- Medical Laboratory Science (BS)
- Secondary Education (BS)
- Social Work (BSW)
- Biochemistry/Molecular Biology (BS)
- Cybersecurity (BS)
University leadership credited the alignment of these academic programs with regional workforce demands as a key factor in attracting both traditional and adult learners. As the university looks toward the Fall term, officials say they plan to continue implementing strategic initiatives aimed at expanding regional access and maintaining this upward trajectory.
