This fall, UNC Charlotte welcomed to campus its largest-ever class of first-time college students. Charlotte’s total enrollment now sits at just over 30,000, propelled by new highs for graduate and international students, and those transferring from other institutions. Undergraduate student enrollment remains the second-highest for the UNC System’s 17-member institutions, and defies a trend toward declining enrollments in several regions of the country.
“Students are choosing UNC Charlotte for high-quality academics and research opportunities, the co-curricular and extracurricular options available to them — and much more,” Chancellor Sharon L. Gaber said. “Charlotte is designated by U.S. News & World Report as the best city in North Carolina for young professionals and is ranked in the nation’s top 10. Through the University’s deep connections to Charlotte’s innovative tech, health care and financial industries as well as its vibrant cultural scene, students can envision themselves thriving here during and after college. UNC Charlotte is truly Charlotte’s great university.”
The composition of the new first-year class — whose numbers reach 4,501 — reflects Charlotte’s ascending academic excellence and the region’s growing diversity. With their arrival, first-time college students complete a total undergraduate population that identifies as 17% Black, 14.8% Hispanic, and 5% multiracial. More than 9.7% of undergraduates identify as Asian American, a new high for Charlotte.
New transfer students continue to choose Charlotte to complete their undergraduate degrees. In total, 2,348 students – the highest in the UNC System – transferred to UNC Charlotte from other institutions, a 4.4% rise over last year. This is attributable in part to the University’s intentional and comprehensive system of support that is designed to meet the unique needs of this population.
Graduate programs are attracting new students from the U.S. and across the globe due to strength of programming, meaningful research opportunities and relevant industry partnerships. Master’s degree and doctoral programs attracted 2,551 new students. Total master’s degree enrollment increased by 5.2%, contributing to Charlotte’s largest master’s-level student population to date. Total international graduate students – enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs – rose by 26.2%.
“It is gratifying to welcome so many new, deserving students to Niner Nation; we look forward to the great things they’ll achieve and contribute to our community,” Claire Kirby, associate provost for enrollment management, said. “To see how UNC Charlotte students mirror the cultural vibrancy of our campus community and that of our city is especially powerful. They certainly possess the talent, ability and desire to transform their lives and shape the future at Charlotte.”
Read more about the incoming class here.
Photo Courtesy of UNC Charlotte
