WSU Tri-Cities welcomes largest first year class ever

RICHLAND — An increasing number of students are choosing to obtain their four-year degree from Washington State University Tri-Cities. The local university’s total fall enrollment grew by 3.3% this year, thanks in part to a 16% increase in first-year students – the largest first-year class in the campus’s history. Undergraduate enrollment increased by 5.2%, compared to last fall and new transfer students increased by 2.2%.  

Out of the six WSU campuses, WSU Tri-Cities and WSU Everett were the only campuses that saw increases in total enrollment, but first-year student enrollment numbers continue to trend upwards for multiple campuses.  

Sandra Haynes, chancellor of WSU Tri-Cities, said, “The energy on campus is palpable. We are thrilled to see such a remarkable increase in total enrollment and especially first-year student enrollment this year. It’s a testament to our connection to the community and the exceptional quality of education we offer. It is great to welcome so many new students who will bring fresh energy, ideas, and perspectives to our institution.”  

The university continues to be a representation of the community it serves. WSU Tri-Cities has the most diverse campus within the WSU system, with 52% students of color, 47% being first generation students, and 60% identifying as female. 

Jamie Owens, campus director of admissions, attributes the growth in part to her team’s efforts to directly connect with local high schools and transfer students, and providing them with accessible information. “I am fortunate to lead a phenomenal admissions team who is passionate about providing a four-year education to our local community,” she said. “Providing an affordable, high-quality education to the Tri-Cities and the surrounding area is so important to not only the team, but our entire campus.” 

Owens said their extra efforts to help students get through the application process by holding workshops and “Instant Decision Days” at local and regional high schools and community colleges was one of the keys that led to the increase in first-year students. 

Colleges across the country were concerned about how the delays in financial aid brought on by the new FAFSA would impact enrollment. “Our team worked very hard this past year to deliver financial aid information to our new, incoming students as quickly as possible. That hard work helped make enrollment possible for those students,” Owens added. 

Affordability, a small school setting, low student-to-instructor ratio and the ability to leverage WSU partnerships locally, nationally and internationally make WSU Tri-Cities an attractive option for local students. Many students can pair their coursework with internships and other real-world experiences, giving them ample opportunities to graduate career ready. 

Kate McAteer, vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, said, “We are excited to see this increase in enrollment on our campus. The upward trend we have experienced this year and last reflects our goals to provide affordable, career-connected learning pathways for students and to develop programs to meet their needs and the needs of our community.” 

For more information about enrollment in the WSU system, visit: https://bit.ly/WSUEN2024.