Lamar University sees enrollment growth in 2024

Lamar University reported a 12% increase in freshman enrollment for the fall of 2024, marking one of the largest freshman classes in recent years, and an overall headcount increase of 4-5%. According to Diedra Mayer, the university's Associate Vice President for Admissions & Aid, this surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including enhanced campus engagement and strategic outreach.

"We've seen a significant uptick in student involvement across campus," Mayer said. "From Greek life to residence upgrades and initiatives that enhance career preparation and leadership development, these factors are making Lamar University a top choice for prospective students."

Several initiatives contributed to the growth. Mayer highlighted an increase in collaboration across campus to support recruitment efforts, and noted that more departments are now involved in helping students with decisions from recruitment to enrollment.

"We also saw a 33% increase in enrollments from outlying counties after removing the on-campus living requirement for students within 30 to 50 miles of campus," Mayer said. "Additionally, campus visits increased by 20%, and the enrollment rate for Cardinal View, the university's preview day, grew by 11% year-over-year."

Recruitment efforts were also bolstered by a 40% increase in high school visits from admissions counselors, tripling the number of individual appointments. "Our outreach on social media and text platforms more than doubled for fall applicants, with a 118% increase in engagement," Mayer said.

The university also expanded its scholarship offerings by 40%, including the introduction of the Centennial Scholarship, which provides $100,000 in local school scholarships. Additionally, communication with parents and families of prospective students improved, with more emails alerting them to their students' status in the admissions process, including scholarship notifications.

When asked which academic programs saw the most growth, Mayer identified the top five freshman majors: Health Sciences, Biology, Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, and General Business.

While most of the freshman growth occurred in South and Southeast Texas, transfer student enrollment also rose by 16% compared to fall 2023. "The majority of transfer students came from institutions like Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT), Houston Community College (HCC), Lone Star College (LSC), Lamar State College Orange (LSCO), Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA), and San Jacinto College," Mayer noted.

Lamar University is ready to welcome a diverse group of students in the years ahead. There's never been a better time to become part of a dynamic community that combines top-tier academics, personalized guidance, and a lively campus experience. Whether you're entering as a freshman, transferring from another school, or coming from abroad, Lamar University has the programs, support, and opportunities to help you succeed. Discover what your future holds-visit www.lamar.edu or contact the admissions office to schedule a tour and come see LU for yourself.

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