Census data for enrolled students taking classes this semester show that Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus (IUPUC) has achieved impressive growth in student headcount.

Total undergraduate student enrollments have grown over the past four consecutive spring semesters, resulting in a 10.9 percent increase between 2010 and 2014. For both undergraduate and graduate student enrollments during that same reporting period, the increase is 8.9 percent.

“In recent months, faculty and staff have done an exceptional job in collaborating on new approaches that better meet our enrollment management goals, especially those which focus on student recruitment and retention,” reported Dr. Marwan Wafa, vice chancellor and dean.

Academic advisors in University College, for example, employed a new “appreciative advising” philosophy to make course selection more participatory. The approach gives students maximum flexibility in choosing the types of classes that interest them, fit their schedules, meet their career goals, and satisfy graduation requirements.

In addition, IUPUC launched a First-Year Experience Program called FYE to guide students through their first year of classes.

“Having a successful first-year university experience is essential for student retention,” explained Dr. Debra Winikates, IUPUC’s director of University College and institutional research. “The FYE program helps students understand the university, but it also helps them discover and learn about themselves.”

FYE participants complete a one-credit interactive seminar course to ensure they understand campus technology and resources, like the availability of free tutoring in subjects like writing and math.

“The seminar explores ways first-year students can get the most out of college, like participating in study-abroad opportunities, engaging in funded research with a faculty mentor, applying for scholarships, joining student clubs and organizations, and serving as members of civic engagement projects that benefit the local community,” Winikates said.

Wafa also credits improved student life programming, like intramural athletics and clubs sports and upcoming Homecoming 2014 activities, with increased enrollments.

Homecoming activities at IUPUC will include nationally recognized comedians on February 13, a pep rally and concert featuring Miss America 2004 on February 14, and the crowning of IUPUC’s first-ever homecoming court during a Saturday, February 15 men’s basketball contest against Ivy Tech to be held at the Foundation for Youth in Columbus.

For information about IUPUC and its degree programs, visit iupuc.edu or contact the Office of Recruitment and Admissions at 812.348.7390.