PR2009 Aug U2

SHELTON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE ENROLLMENT CONTINUES INCREASE

TUSCALOOSA – Fall 2009 enrollment numbers are up at Shelton State Community College, with nearly 10 percent more students registered for 8.5 percent more credit hours than in fall of 2008.

Following its drop/add period which ended Aug. 25, the College has 5,708 students enrolled for 61,164 credit hours, which is the highest credit hour production for the College since fall of 2003, which totaled 61,933 but also included the second split term. The 2009 fall second split term begins October 14. Online registration is ongoing through October 15 and on-site registration is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 13, which likely will raise enrollment numbers even more.

As of Aug. 26, 496 classes were closed due to reaching maximum enrollment with 428 classes remaining open. The record enrollment marks the third consecutive semester with increases of double- or nearly double-digit increases over 2008. Smaller class size, more affordable tuition than four-year institutions in the state, and the current economy are a few of many reasons why Shelton State President Dr. Mark Heinrich feels that the College’s numbers continue to rise.

“We certainly are encouraged to see the rising number of people who are taking advantage of what Shelton State has to offer,” said Heinrich. “It is obvious that the residents of West Alabama understand that this College is here to positively impact our community. That happens in large part because of the efforts of the dedicated faculty and staff who work to provide our students with excellence in instructional programs and support.”

###