St. Thomas University (STU) in Miami Gardens, Florida, is set to break the record for participation in its upcoming graduation ceremonies. From May 8 to May 10, a total of 939 students will participate in the ceremonies at the Fernandez Family Center for Leadership and Wellness on the university campus.
The record-breaking participation includes undergraduate students, graduate students, and law school students. This year’s numbers surpass the previous record of just over 930 participants in May 2022. The university has seen a significant increase in student enrollment, with more students attending than ever before in its 64-year history.
One of the driving factors behind this increase is the expansion of programs, including the nursing program, which now boasts over 1,200 students compared to just 31 in 2016. The university’s total enrollment for the fall of 2023 reached 6,455 students, a 50% increase from the fall of 2018.
Under the leadership of President David A. Armstrong, J.D., St. Thomas University has experienced five consecutive years of enrollment growth. This growth has been fueled in part by a remarkable 99% increase in undergraduate students since President Armstrong took office in August 2018.
In addition to setting enrollment records, St. Thomas University has recently achieved several other milestones. The university has expanded its facilities, adding over 400,000 square feet of new space, including a new student center, dining hall, sports fields, track, student residence, and a building for the Gus Machado College of Business.
The university has also introduced new academic programs, such as Applied Kinesiology, Ethical Leadership, Marketing and Fashion Design, and Culinary and Hospitality Management. These additions reflect the university’s commitment to providing diverse and innovative educational opportunities.
St. Thomas University’s success comes at a time when many universities in the United States are experiencing declining enrollment. According to federal statistics, American universities have lost over 2.6 million students, a 15% decrease, between the fall of 2010 and the fall of 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this decline.
STU’s ability to buck this trend and attract students is a testament to its value as a leading Catholic institution in the United States. President Armstrong attributes the university’s appeal to its intimate academic environment, new state-of-the-art facilities, and competitive sports opportunities.
As St. Thomas University continues to defy national enrollment trends, it remains dedicated to fostering the academic and professional success of its diverse student body. With its commitment to limitless opportunities and outcomes, STU is creating a magical college experience that prepares students to become ethical leaders in our global community.
In addition to the record-breaking graduation numbers, it’s important to discuss current market trends and provide forecasts for St. Thomas University (STU). Despite declining enrollment rates across many universities in the United States, STU has experienced significant growth in student enrollment. This demonstrates the appeal and value of the institution in the current market.
One of the key factors driving this growth is the expansion of programs, particularly the nursing program. The nursing program at STU has seen a remarkable increase in student enrollment, from just 31 students in 2016 to over 1,200 students currently. This expansion aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the United States, making it a significant advantage for students pursuing nursing careers.
Apart from the nursing program, STU has expanded its offerings with new academic programs such as Applied Kinesiology, Ethical Leadership, Marketing and Fashion Design, and Culinary and Hospitality Management. These additions cater to the diverse interests and career aspirations of students, enhancing the university’s appeal to a wider range of prospective students.
Looking ahead, it is likely that STU will continue to experience growth in student enrollment. The university’s commitment to providing innovative educational opportunities, its intimate academic environment, and state-of-the-art facilities are expected to attract more students. Furthermore, the institution’s emphasis on competitive sports opportunities, which can be a significant factor for student recruitment, is likely to contribute to its continued success.
However, one key challenge associated with STU’s growth is the need to sustain and manage the increased student population effectively. With a significant increase in student enrollment, the university must ensure that it can maintain quality education, student support services, and a positive campus experience for all students. This may require additional resources and careful planning to accommodate the growing student body while maintaining the institution’s standards.
Overall, St. Thomas University’s success in attracting and retaining students is notable in a time when many universities are facing declining enrollment. The institution’s diverse program offerings, expansion of facilities, and commitment to creating an inclusive academic environment make it an appealing choice for students seeking a holistic college experience.
For more information about St. Thomas University’s programs, campus facilities, and success stories, you can visit their official website here.