Enrollment figures released for the spring semester show the University of Nevada, Reno is not only continuing to experience increases in enrollment over the prior year, but is also seeing more students taking full course loads.

The total number of students enrolled is up 1 percent over spring 2008. The total number of credits being taken has increased 5 percent. This means that students at the University are, on average, taking more credits this spring compared to last spring.

The fact that students are taking heavier loads indicates that the “culture of completion” is taking hold. A campus-wide initiative and goal, the culture of completion is an effort to ensure that every University student completes his or her degree and strives to do so within four or five years.

“We want to better prepare our students to be productive citizens, and encouraging them to finish their degrees and finish them on time is key,” said Glick. “Students come to the University to earn a degree, and it is our responsibility to encourage strong retention and graduation rates.”

Other spring enrollment figures show progress for the University as well. Enrollment of students of color is up 7 percent, including a 9 percent increase in Hispanic students. This semester, 2,925 students identify themselves as a person of color, and Glick sees this increased diversity at the University as a positive trend.

“Our student population should reflect the population of our state as a whole, and the opportunity to earn a degree should to be accessible to all Nevadans prepared to do so,” he said. “Diversity contributes to the vibrancy of campus and introduces new ideas and perspectives. Interacting with people from a variety of cultures prepares all students to work in increasingly diverse settings and contribute to the global economy.”

The increase in enrollment comes after new, more rigorous requirements for admission—a 3.0 grade point average in core high school classes such as English, math, and science—took effect last semester. Glick is pleased to see that, even with the requirements in place, the University has achieved increased enrollment and diversity, and attracted top students as evidenced by the dramatic increase in the number of National Merit Scholars enrolled.

“It’s good to see our goals being realized,” he said. “It’s clear we’re starting to create a better prepared and educated population, which is vital for the future of Nevada.”