Missouri State University’s Springfield campus has begun to rebound in the number of international and transfer students enrolled since the beginning of COVID.

When classes began yesterday (Aug. 22), 18,383 students were enrolled at the Springfield campus, down by 2.9% from opening day last fall.

International student enrollment, an area strongly impacted by COVID, is up by 540 students (42%). Transfer student enrollment is up almost 12%; and graduate enrollment appears ready to set another enrollment record for the third year in a row.

There are a lot of moving parts

The change of schedule and late registration period will continue through Aug. 26. Registration in high school dual credit courses and other special courses will continue through early September.

“Over the next six months, we’re implementing a transformation plan to bolster our enrollment over the coming year,” said university President Clif Smart. “We have new folks in critical leadership positions who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in this area.

“Increases in international, graduate, and transfer enrollment reflect a strong start to this plan.”

Official enrollment report available Sept. 30

Official enrollment reports will be based on enrollment at the end of the day on Sept. 26. Reports should be available Sept. 30.