For the first time in the institution’s 192-year history, the University of North Alabama has surpassed an enrollment of 10,000 students.
The university’s record-breaking enrollment can be attributed UNA’s strategic and diversified student outreach strategy, according to institution officials.
President Dr. Ken Kitts said UNA’s enrollment numbers were due to the university’s commitment to providing academic and workforce development opportunities.
“Our growth strategy is intentional, and this historic enrollment of more than 10,000 is evidence that our academic priorities around workforce development resonate with learners of all types,” said Kitts in a release. “The UNA campus is vibrant and thriving, and this benchmark is part of UNA’s overall success, from our record fundraising year to our full and active NCAA Division I status. It is truly a great time to be at UNA.”
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Upon graduation from UNA, students have the opportunity to land in-demand jobs in multiple career fields. These include the fields of computing, engineering, nursing and health professions, accounting and professional management, and elementary and early childhood education.
“UNA has listened to the needs of our local and state legislators in the development and implementation of innovative academic programs,” said Kitts. “We have worked closely with industry partners in order to prioritize degrees that lead to jobs in the Shoals, the region, and the state. It is a critical component of our growth.”
The university has experienced record enrollment growth among freshmen, transfer, international, and online students, and graduate cohorts.
Additionally, more than 250 students have enrolled through a partnership in engineering and technology with Guizhou University-University of North Alabama International College of Engineering and Technology in Guiyang, China.
Dr. Ross Alexander, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, said UNA’s record-setting enrollment numbers were simply “remarkable.”
“While exceeding 10,000 students is certainly a noteworthy achievement, UNA’s ascendency as a first-choice university for every type of learner throughout a career and a lifetime is just remarkable,” said Ross.
Dylan Smith is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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