A-State all-time spring enrollment record

Arkansas State University had a record headcount of a record 16,073 students this spring semester, a 10% increase over spring 2024. Chancellor Todd Shields said this is the second consecutive double-digit spring semester growth for the university.

“This record-breaking spring enrollment reflects the positive momentum Arkansas State continues to build. Our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education is stronger than ever, and we are proud to see more students choosing A-State to pursue their academic and career goals,” said Shields. “As we grow, we remain dedicated to meeting the needs of Arkansas and the broader region, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to contribute to their communities and industries.”

Arkansas resident enrollment was up 8.1%, with 9,452 from in-state, compared with 8,745 last spring. The university continues to expand its educational reach from coast-to-coast with online programs. A-State Online grew 16.2% from spring 2024 and boasts the largest online enrollment in the state.

Campus Queretaro in Mexico added 121 students for a 16% increase and a total enrollment of 903. Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Calvin White Jr. said he appreciates the faculty and staff for their contributions to A-State’s continued enrollment growth.

“The collaboration between our Enrollment Management, Academic Affairs, Student Life, and other key departments has been instrumental in supporting this growth. By working together across campus, we’ve strengthened student engagement, streamlined processes, and enhanced the overall A-State experience.” said White. “This collective effort is making a tangible impact, and it’s exciting to see so many students choosing to be part of the Red Wolves family.”

In Jonesboro, the university experienced significant growth in academic areas that align with local and statewide workforce needs.

The College of Nursing and Health Professions had an overall enrollment increase of 27%, led by jumps in social work, nursing, and medical imaging and radiation science. The Neil Griffin College of Business — fueled by growth in accounting, information systems, business analytics, management, marketing and supply chain — reported a 12% rise. The College of Agriculture grew its student body by 17%, with a 20% increase in students studying animal science.

A-State also continues to see an all-time high demand for on-campus housing. The number of campus residents rose 8% compared with spring 2024. The university had a 93% retention rate of students who lived on campus in 2024.

A-State continues to focus on additional ways to improve student retention and overall well-being. In fall 2024, it launched a new AI-powered SMS chatbot. Students can connect with the chatbot about topics such as academics, financial aid, and student services. Since then, 97% of the student body remains opted in, and the chatbot has exchanged more than 18,600 text messages with students.