Ricks College's fall enrollment dropped by 201 students this year, reflecting the college's effort to move closer to a self-imposed ceiling of 7,500 students.
Even with the decline, the official enrollment stands at 7,755, still over the ceiling.Ever since hitting a record of 8,217 in the fall of 1993, college officials have been trying to bring the enrollment down. However, it became more difficult as they were faced with an increasing numbers of applicants and a higher retention rate of students who were returning to finish their associate degrees.
A concerted effort was made this year, including the acceptance of fewer freshmen. The result is already being felt, with less pressure to add extra classes. "But we're still packed," said Jim Gee, assistant vice president for support services.
The number of new students dropped to 2,053, which is down 302 from last year. The remainder are either continuing from last year or returning after an absence, such as returned missionaries who are re-entering school.
Students this semester are registered for an average of 15 credit hours. "That shows our students are traditional full-time students, which is unique at a two-year school," Gee said.
A breakdown in statistics for fall semester shows 2,570 from Idaho (4 fewer than in 1995), 1,115 from Utah (77 fewer), 741 from California (50 fewer), 600 from Washington (9 fewer) and 342 from Oregon (19 fewer).