TWIN FALLS, Idaho — The College of Southern Idaho's enrollment numbers are in, and it's good news for the college.
Nationwide, and even at other locations within the state, community colleges have been bracing for a decrease in enrollment, but at CSI that hasn't been the case.
"We're up just over one percent in credits--in the number of credits students are taking at csi this year--and a little over three percent in terms of headcount," said Chris Bragg, CSI's dean of institutional effectiveness and communication.
The community college has around 250 more students this year than last, and Bragg says the increase isn't coming from the expected source: dual credit students.
"Probably the most interesting thing we're seeing right now is the flattening of dual credit in the fall, and the increase in non-dual credit students," Bragg explained. "That's the first time in several years we've seen that increase in non-dual credit students."
The college says it's difficult to pinpoint exactly why they've seen an increase, but it could be due to a variety of factors.
"We do typically see a slight increase in enrollment at times when the economy is struggling a bit. Maybe a few people without jobs are looking for an education," Bragg said. "We can give them what they need from an educational standpoint, and we can do it close to home. There was a lot of work a lot of effort by a lot of folks on campus and I think that's showing in our numbers this fall."
The college's data also shows how their students are taking classes is changing. They say their online courses and enrollment are up 40 percent. Factoring in hybrid learning, they're up 70 percent.
