Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus (IUPUC) achieved record-breaking enrollments this year, with the largest number of students in its 43-year history taking classes this fall.

The number of IUPUC students for the first semester of the 2013-14 academic year grew 1.8 percent from last year for a total of 1,732 students. Enrollment figures include:

• 1,671 undergraduate students
• 61 graduate students
• 18,236 credit hours being taught

In fact, enrollments at IUPUC have grown substantially in recent years, with an increase of 6.5 percent from 2009 to 2013.

“We believe new degree programs, a greater number of online and hybrid classes, and a more collegiate atmosphere are among the biggest factors leading to the increase,” explained Dr. Marwan Wafa, vice chancellor and dean.

Since 2010, Wafa said the university has added a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling degree program. It offers hundreds of online courses that are more convenient for working adults.

Wafa also credits greater student involvement in campus life with increased enrollments. “IUPUC students now have opportunities previously only available on larger campuses, like funded research projects, club sports, nationally recognized guest speakers, trips to museums and cultural attractions, and study-abroad opportunities,” he said.

Last year, the Division of Business sponsored a trip to Hong Kong for undergraduate and graduate students to learn more international business models and practices. The university awarded $10,000 in funded research grants to undergraduate students and also hosted the first competitive men’s basketball team since 1987.

This year, the Office of Student Involvement has engaged a diverse slate of speakers to deliver guest lectures on campus, including a Ugandan refugee and a Muslim filmmaker born in India. More than 50 students will participate in the 2013 Ethnic Expo Parade, held each year in Columbus. The first IUPUC student cheer team has also been formed.

Currently, students can complete nine undergraduate degrees and two graduate degrees in Columbus.

“We serve a significant number of students throughout the region who take a year or two of classes and then transfer to IUPUI or another campus to complete degrees not offered at IUPUC,” said Denise Jennings, director of the Office of Registrar Services.

Jennings said these students want to live at home and take classes on a campus that is near their family or their workplace for as long as possible to keep their student loan debt low and reduce their expenses for commuting or moving.

For more information about IUPUC, visit www.iupuc.edu.