Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake Community College is bracing for a record number of students enrolling for fall semester.
School officials anticipated a spike this month as many of the new students are typically inspired by family holiday gatherings like the Fourth of July and Pioneer Day, when people discuss dreams and aspirations.
"Students say they have conversations with parents and spouses about their futures," said Joy Tlou, SLCC director of public relations. Add on the fact that the downturn in the economy is already driving a record number of people back to education, and seats in classrooms are filling up fast.
According to SLCC numbers, enrollment has jumped 26 percent over the past five years to 33,983 registered students during the 2010-2011 school year.
Bracing for record numbers, SLCC officials recently sent out a general email, warning students to register for classes as early as possible. In particular, many new students try to get their core general classes out of the way, which means classes in mathematics, English and biology fill up fast. Tech classes, like computer science, are also expected to peak.
- Aug. 20 - Applications for new enrollment due
- Aug. 24 - Fall semester classes begin
"Now is the time to start registering," Tlou said. Registration for fall semester classes are going on now.
In addition to traditional classes, Tlou said SLCC has worked to develop its eCampus programs, where students can take most SLCC courses online. Currently there are about 8,000 students enrolled in eCampus classes.
When asked if state funding was keeping up with demand, Tlou said SLCC has faced budget cuts like any other tax-funded institution. "We're being asked to do more with less," he said, but added SLCC won't turn any qualified student away.
Email:gfattah@desnews.com
