Dixie State University shows highest enrollment increase percentage in Utah

ST. GEORGE, Utah — Dixie State University has the highest enrollment percentage increase among Utah’s public colleges and universities according to official enrollment numbers released by the Utah System of Higher Education today.

Dixie State’s Fall 2019 student population, comprised of 11,193 individuals, increased by 12.49 percent from last year as indicated by USHE’s Fall 2019 3rd Week Headcount Enrollment Brief. Demonstrating the longevity and sustainability of the university’s growth, Dixie State’s third-week fall enrollment has increased by 31.64 percent in the last four years.

“We are excited to have the largest student body in Dixie State’s history and the highest percentage growth among public universities in Utah,” Dixie State University President Richard “Biff” Williams said. “As part of this consistent growth, we will also continue expanding our academic programs and facilities to give every DSU student a high-quality, affordable education that helps them become career-ready.”

Committed to offering its expanding student body more academic programs, Dixie State has added 16 new programs in the past year alone. With these additions, the University now offers 200 programs including baccalaureate degrees in 45 distinct fields of study as well as four graduate programs.

Dixie State also recently expanded its campus footprint by building the Human Performance Center on campus, which opened for classes this fall. This 155,000 square-foot facility, which includes both academic and recreational space, perfectly exemplifies DSU’s “active learning. active life.” approach to education.

Additionally, to accommodate the workforce demand for STEM professionals, the University will break ground on the Science, Engineering & Technology building on October 23 with an anticipated opening of Fall 2021 semester.

The dedication of the University’s Division of Student Affairs has helped make DSU’s consistent enrollment growth possible.

“The Division of Student Affairs has worked collaboratively and effectively across campus to bring in the largest new class in the history of the University. Retention for current students has seen a positive upswing as well,” Dr. Peter Gitau, vice president of student affairs, said. “By investing in strategic markets, streamlining critical student services and fine-tuning our message, DSU continues the momentum as one of the fastest growing public institutions in the State of Utah.”

Included in DSU’s enrollment numbers is an increase in diversity, which grew by 10 percent overall. Also, the number of non-resident students grew by 8.4 percent, bringing the total of DSU non-resident students to 17 percent.

For the public colleges and universities as a whole throughout Utah, USHE reported an increased enrollment of 5,402 students for a net increase of 2.94 percent. In the past four years, the USHE System has seen an overall 10.88 percent enrollment growth in Utah.

To learn more about Dixie State University, visit utahtech.edu.