College of DuPage Reaches Historic Headcount and FTE Spring Enrollment

Continuing to buck regional and national trends, College of DuPage has recorded its highest-ever spring Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) and total credit headcount enrollment in the College's 48-year history.

The College's net 10th day FTE is 15,952, up 2.1 percent over last spring. In addition, the College's net credit headcount (full- and part-time students) is 29,108, up 3.6 percent compared to spring 2014 semester.

"These numbers speak volumes," said COD President Dr. Robert L. Breuder. "College of DuPage employees have accomplished an impressive number of achievements over the past six years, which has resulted in a continued upward enrollment trend in the face of state and national decreases."

Last month, College of DuPage was named the fastest-growing community college in the nation outside of California by Community College Week in a study with data gathered by the U.S. Department of Education. In addition, a recent report from the Illinois Community College Board noted that of the 39 community college districts in Illinois, College of DuPage is the only district to grow Full-Time Equivalent enrollment over the past five years.

"At a time when an educational return on investment is more important than ever, we have maintained a pulse on local, state and national workforce trends to offer students solid programming options that result in high-paying jobs and promotions through increased credentials," Dr. Breuder said. "We have differentiated ourselves through our programs, faculty, facilities and innovation. This historic enrollment substantiates our hard work."

Over the past six years, the College has implemented nearly 70 new ICCB-approved certificates and degrees, has significantly strengthened its financial position and recently completed $550 million in campus improvements. In addition, the College has created new programming with six partner universities to offer 12 bachelor degrees on COD's campus through its 3+1 program, has increased fundraising from $1.2 million a few years ago to more than $5 million last year, and continues to spearhead the issue of two-year colleges offering specialized baccalaureate degrees.

"The value College of DuPage provides students and the community is unquestionable," said COD Chairman Erin Birt. "We continue to differentiate ourselves by offering innovative, timely, accessible and affordable programming. Through hard work and strategic planning, we are realizing our vision of becoming the primary college district residents choose for high quality education."

Among the state's public colleges and universities, College of DuPage, with more than 28,000 students, is the second largest provider of undergraduate education in the State of Illinois, after University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

For more information, please call Joe Moore, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, at (630) 991-6557 or moorej7718@cod.edu.