September 18, 2018
Hackettstown, N.J., Sept. 18, 2018—Centenary University has reported a significant increase in freshman enrollment for the 2018-2019 academic year, bucking a national trend of declining enrollment at small, liberal arts colleges. The members of the Class of 2022, who arrived on campus in late August, represent a 15 percent enrollment hike over last year’s freshman class. The most recent freshman class is the second largest in eight years.
The total number of new undergraduates—combining traditional day-session freshmen and transfer students—recorded a 12.9 percent increase, while the University also met its target for graduate admissions.
Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Robert L. Miller Jr. attributed the gains to a growing recognition among high school students and their parents that small universities like Centenary offer outstanding educational opportunities and individual support that translates into career success after graduation. At Centenary, 97 percent of graduates were employed or enrolled in graduate school nine months after graduation, exceeding the national average by 28 percent.
“More and more students and their parents are recognizing Centenary’s commitment to each student’s success, providing a challenging academic environment while at the same time offering the support needed to succeed,” Miller noted. “Combined with a rich co-curricular experience and an affordable price, Centenary is the right choice for many students.”
A Strategic Design Process implemented last year at Centenary has already led to the creation of new academic programs, as well as a new Honors Program for academically talented students. Initiated by Centenary University President David P. Haney, the process is reshaping the future of the University through innovative academic programs, new community partnerships, targeted recruitment, a restructured administration, and a strong financial foundation.
ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation. This mix provides an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in the increasingly global and interdependent world. The University’s main campus is located in Hackettstown, N.J., with its equestrian facility in Washington Township. The Centenary University School of Professional Studies offers degree programs at two locations, Parsippany and Edison, as well as online and at corporate sites throughout New Jersey.