Grace College and Seminary recorded its third consecutive record enrollment as 1,508 students enrolled for the 2008-09 academic year. The record includes a school-best 281 freshmen and 84 percent retention rate for returning students.
The combination of new students and the retention of upper classmen are two reasons why U.S. News and World Report named Grace College to the top tier of its “Best Baccalaureate Colleges in the Midwest.” Grace’s previous best enrollment was the 1,438 students in 2007.
According to Mark D. Weinstein, Dean of Enrollment and Marketing, Grace is attracting the record number of students because of new academic programs, the development of scholar and leadership programs, and the College’s continued commitment to Christian values. In recent years, the College developed academic majors in public relations and intercultural studies and next year will offer a degree in environmental biology.
At the Seminary level, the master’s degree programs in Local Church Studies and Intercultural Studies are offered through an online and on campus blended format. In January 2009, a Bachelor of Science degree in Management through the newly formed degree completion undergraduate program called GOAL (Grace Opportunities for Adult Learners) will begin.
“It is encouraging to see our students respond to our innovative scholar and leadership programs, such as the Millennial Scholars Academy, Orthopaedic Scholar Institute, and Presidential Scholarship Competition,” Weinstein said. “In addition, when visiting the Grace campus, parents and future students often comment on the engaging atmosphere and the commitment of our students, faculty, and staff to both academic achievement and the Christian faith.
The record enrollment and new academic offerings, including the GOAL degree completion program, are reasons for optimism for continued growth, he added.
“There is a measure of excitement with the further growth of programs and student enrollment,” said Weinstein. “As we provide the programs that students desire and stay true to our mission, I see Grace continuing to grow and being a leader in Christian higher education."
