KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A new report ranking Michigan public universities’ enrollment shows the number of overall students has continued to decline in 2019.
The Michigan Association of State Universities enrollment report shows a 4.84% decrease in enrollment at Western Michigan University compared to 2018, or about 1092 students, and a 2.61% percent decrease at Grand Valley State University.
The two schools have also reported flat or declining rates of transfer students relative to earlier years.
WMU President Edward Montgomery said earlier this year that he believes the problem is that the number of high school graduates in Michigan is declining, leading to fewer freshman entering state universities.
Fall enrollment in 2019 at Western Michigan University was down 14% from 2010 overall.
The statewide decline in enrollment comes as the cost of secondary education has skyrocketed since the new millenium, and a renewed focus on skilled trades and certification programs like IT has attracted pupils previously attracted to college programs.
Administrators say that they are increasing outreach measures and financial aid relief to attract more enrolled students.
All of Michigan’s 15 state universities reported a decline in total enrollment compared to 2018 except for Northern Michigan University and the University of Michigan.
