U of A Ranked as Seventh-Fastest-Growing Public Research University

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – A new survey published by the national Chronicle of Higher Education recognizes the University of Arkansas as having the 7th fastest growing enrollment among U.S. public doctoral universities.

The ranking is based on enrollment figures covering the decade between 2002 and 2012. During that period the university’s enrollment grew from a total of 15,995 students to 24,537 students, an increase of 53.4 percent.

“In last year’s survey the Chronicle ranked the University of Arkansas as the 13^th fastest growing campus,” said Chancellor G. David Gearhart. “It shouldn’t be a surprise to anyonehere that we are now in the top 10, because our growth continues to be exceptional. This survey gives us the national context and perspective to affirm what we have accomplished.

“This is a credit to our faculty and staff, who make the University of Arkansas a first-choice school for great students in Arkansas and in the rest of the country,” he said. “It’s a credit to our students, who regularly demonstrate the quality of the education they have received here. And it’s a credit to the staff in enrollment services, who work so hard to bring so many excellent students to the U of A.”

University enrollment is expected to approach 26,000 students for the fall 2014 semester. That amounts to 63 percent growth since 2002.

"Our growth reflects the U of A’s long-term plan to expand access to higher education across Arkansas, while building a national reputation for academic excellence to attract top students from around the country and the world,” said Suzanne McCray, vice provost for enrollment management and dean of admissions.