NSU fall enrollment up nearly 4% as more Oklahomans choose regional institution

Officials cite direct admission, critical occupation focus, degree offerings for recent boost

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. ­— As a state institution, Northeastern State University is fulfilling its mission to serve the people of Oklahoma. This fall, enrollment is up nearly 4 percent with approximately 90 percent of its student body coming from within the state.

According to census data, unduplicated headcount at the regional institution reported an increase of 3.6 percent over the previous year. NSU has seen increased enrollment across several categories, including transfer students at 11.9 percent and graduate students at 11.2 percent.

“We are excited to welcome the newest class of RiverHawks,” NSU President Rodney Hanley said. “Students have a choice in their educational journey and with 90 percent of our student body coming from within our state, we take special pride in knowing that we are transforming lives right here in our communities. Our graduates help shape the trajectory of future generations by bolstering Oklahoma’s workforce and improving the economy. It’s a job we take seriously.”

Jennifer Nichols, NSU Director of Admissions and Recruitment, attributes NSU’s recent direct admission programs, critical occupation focuses and degree offerings for the recent boost.

“The launch of our direct admission partnerships with Tahlequah Public Schools and Broken Arrow Public Schools was the right thing to do,” Nichols said. “We have been able to remove college application barriers and demystify the process. This is critical for many of our students and their families.”

In addition to quality, flexibility and affordability, Northeastern’s historical focus on offering majors that directly bolster the state’s workforce is another reason many students seem to be choosing the institution as their pathway to a successful and impactful career in Oklahoma’s evolving job market.  

"By providing over 40 majors aligned with the state’s workforce needs and collaborating with industry partners to develop certificate and micro-credential programs, NSU remains committed to playing a vital role in strengthening Oklahoma’s economy," Nichols said. 

For more information, visit Go2NSU.com.

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