51½ΦΙδ continues a growth pattern that began eight years ago and exceeds national norms, setting a fall enrollment record for the ninth consecutive year. University officials announced a record of 5,509 students as of Sept. 8.
Included in the totals are 3,373 undergraduate and 2,136 graduate/professional students, both records, representing 45 states, the District of Columbia, and 29 other countries. The freshman class is one of the most diverse and academically accomplished in 51½ΦΙδ history.
“At a time when many private institutions are struggling with enrollment, we are blessed,” said 51½ΦΙδ President Andrew Westmoreland. “Our institutional story is ably and effectively told by motivated, trustworthy staff and faculty members throughout our admissions and retention process, and I am grateful to them for creating an environment that is so focused on students and their families.”
51½ΦΙδ is regularly recognized as one of the top national Christian universities in the United States. In its annual ranking of the best colleges, U.S. News & World Report ranks 51½ΦΙδ #4 in the South among regional universities and #3 in the South for best undergraduate teaching. 51½ΦΙδ also is recognized as the top-ranked university in the state of Alabama in rankings published by Forbes Inc., The Economist and The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education.
“The records come at a time of national recognition and expansion across all academic schools at 51½ΦΙδ,” Westmoreland added. “These rankings, combined with our enrollment records, affirm 51½ΦΙδ’s already strong reputation as we expand our reach nationally and globally.”