Western Oklahoma State College is pleased to announce an increase in enrollment for fall 2022. The total student population rose to 1,304 which is an increase of 3.66% compared to last fall. Credit production hours increased 3.12% and full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment also increased by 3.13%. On a national level, community college enrollment has dropped over 20% since spring 2020. With rising tuition and fees and a strong economy, many potential students are choosing to enter the workforce . “At Western, we have worked very hard to stay affordable. Our board is always perceptive to the needs of our students and very conservative when it comes to adding costs,” said Dr. Wiginton, WOSC President. Data continues to show that as educational attainment increases, so does an individual’s earning capacity. Associate degree holders earn a median income 25% higher than those with only a high school diploma.
Western prides itself on the relationships built with local high schools through the concurrent enrollment program. This fall there are 389 high school students enrolled concurrently which is 13.4% higher than last year. High school seniors who meet the eligibility requirements are entitled to receive tuition waivers for up to 18 credit hours and high school juniors can receive tuition waivers up to 9 credit hours. Students are responsible for fees and related textbook costs. Dr. Chad Wiginton said, “Not only is concurrent enrollment a huge savings, it gives students the ability to ease into the college classroom while still under the watchful eye of high school counselors and parents. Our instructors do an outstanding job helping students with this transition.”