Randolph Community College Breaks Another Enrollment Record (Sept. 23, 2003)

ASHEBORO, N.C.--Randolph Community College enrolled a total of 2,278 students in its curriculum (college credit) programs last month, a new record for the College. The fall semester began Aug. 18.

This fall's Full Time Equivalent (FTE) enrollment topped last fall's by 13%, according to Laura Douglas, vice president for instructional and student services. The College calculates enrollment based on FTE, which is a measurement equal to one student studying at college full time.

This fall's 13% increase comes on the heels of a 15% increase in FTE enrollment for the summer 2003 session, a 9% increase during the spring 2003 semester, and a 10% increase for the fall 2002 semester.

According to Dr. Richard Heckman, RCC president, these significant increases in enrollment are putting severe strain on an institution that has seen its funding severely cut over the past three years. In the 2000-01 fiscal year, Randolph Community College received $4,601 per FTE in State and Federal funding after reversions and freezes. For the 2003-04 fiscal year, the College is receiving $4,412 per FTE with the potential of additional reversions or freezes.

Enrollment was exceptionally strong in many of the College's majors, including health programs like Associate Degree Nursing, the new Radiography program, and General Occupational Technology. Associate in Arts (College Transfer) and Photographic Technology continue to be high enrollment programs, as well as Advertising & Graphic Design. RCC also saw a surge in enrollment in other occupational areas like Automotive Systems Technology and Autobody Repair. Douglas noted that enrollment in the College's Huskins programs (in which high school students can earn college credit) jumped by 19%.

The College is still enrolling students in noncredit continuing education programs, and enrollments in these programs are also looking strong for fall.