Written by Ashel Parsons
Harding University, the largest private school in Arkansas, has had high enrollment for 23 years straight.
Harding’s enrollment has gone up every year, last year it was 6510 and this year it was 6613. That is an increase by 1.6 percent.
Dr. David Burks, president of the university, gives credit to Harding’s unwavering commitment to its mission for the school’s high enrollment. Harding’s mission is to integrate faith, learning and living.
“Having a record enrollment for the 23rd year in a row is a positive reflection on the University, especially in this economic climate.” said Burks.
Harding is very diverse in its students. There are students from all 50 states and 49 foreign countries. There are 11 freshman who are National Merit Finalists, which makes the total number of finalists on campus 47.
With the new College of Pharmacy program now running it has brought in 59 students. Communication sciences and disorders and business departments have also increased in enrollment.
“Harding must be one of only a handful of private universities experiencing record-setting enrollment growth for 23 consecutive years.” said Dr. James Carr, executive vice president.
With the economy unstable it is a surprise to many that enrollment is still going up. Harding does try and make it affordable for students to attend. The tuition increase this year was the lowest in 22 years, only up 3 percent.
To help students who’s parents have lost their job or have experienced pay cuts, Harding will distribute more than $11 million in scholarships this year. This will hopefully relieve some of the load off of the struggling families.
There is no sign of next year enrolling any less students. “Applications for fall 2010 have already surpassed the number received this time last year.” said Carr.
