NSU celebrates five-semester streak of enrollment growth

Graduate, international and concurrent enrollment drive momentum as retention hits new highs

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — For the fifth consecutive semester, Northeastern State University is growing—and so is the confidence students and families place in higher education. This fall, NSU’s total enrollment rose 1.5 percent, marking the university’s second straight year of overall growth and underscoring the trust students have in NSU to deliver on their investment by committing to their success.

The momentum is evident across several key areas. Enrollment in the Graduate College climbed 2.7 percent, international student enrollment surged by 86.2 percent, and concurrent enrollment increased 5.1 percent. NSU also recorded a recent institutional high in student retention at 69.8 percent. Together, these advances helped drive a 2 percent rise in credit hour production—a critical measure of both academic persistence and economic impact.

NSU President Rodney Hanley said the university’s consistent enrollment gains affirm the institution’s mission and its role in shaping Oklahoma’s future.

“At Northeastern State University, we believe in the transformative power of education. These enrollment gains show that students and families continue to trust NSU to deliver a promising future by investing in their success. Every student who chooses NSU is preparing to strengthen Oklahoma’s workforce and future economy, and we are proud to be part of that journey.”

University leaders point to strong graduate offerings, expanding concurrent enrollment partnerships and a sharpened focus on student retention as key drivers of growth. Together, these initiatives reinforce NSU’s role as both a university of choice for students and a vital partner in powering Oklahoma’s workforce and communities.

For more information about NSU’s academic programs and admissions, visit Go2NSU.com.

###