Spring enrollment looks to be strong again

Tuesday marks the beginning of another spring semester, another semester where strong enrollment is expected.

Last spring, overall enrollment grew 16.6 percent and 11.5 percent on the Springfield campus. Double-digit increases are likely again this semester. Enrollment is up at all of the campuses and education centers.

“Enrollment for spring continues to be very strong. Every campus, center and OTC Online are showing strong enrollment growth,” said Dr. Hal Higdon, president of Ozarks Technical Community College. 

“The Waynesville and Lebanon Centers are seeing dramatic growth in enrollment, as well as enrollment for on-line classes. It is obvious that people continue to see our College as the best choice for pursuing a better life.”

Joan Barrett, associate vice president for student affairs, said the enrollment increases reflect the role OTC plays in a student’s future.

“Some have definite career and vocational plans for themselves and others are asking for help in determining their path. Each of the students knows that education beyond high school is a necessity. Each is aware that completing an associate’s degree with OTC prior to transferring to a four-year school is an economical way to secure a degree,” Barrett said.

While OTC Online is looking at substantial increases this semester, seated classes are being scheduled early in the morning and late into the evening to help students with nontraditional schedules.

“Our Late Night classes (offered at 10 p.m. or later) continue to grow by leaps and bounds and have come into their own,” said Dr. Reita Gorman, dean of general education, who added that at least 17 late-night classes are scheduled for this spring.

Barrett said that in addition to students working their way through college to earn a four-year degree and start of a career, there are other students who are looking for training in a new field.

“Many have been in or made attempts to join the workforce only to find their skills are in need of updating. The good news for our community is that many of these individuals find their way to OTC,” she said.

Steve Koehler is coordinator of publications at Ozarks Technical Community College. Contact him at koehlers@otc.edu.