Fall 2009 Brings Bowie State University its Largest Student Body in History
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Posted By: Jehan Bunch on November 06, 2009 FEATURED Content Bowie, Md.--Bowie State University gained the largest class of students this fall in the history of the University with a total of 5,617. Enrollment has increased 3.7 percent since fall 2004, from 5,415 to 5,617. This year’s student enrollment increase is largely due to the increase in student retention (students returning each semester) from the 2007-2008 academic year to the fall semester. Retaining students who may experience financial difficulties or other obstacles is an ongoing challenge for higher education. “We have met or exceeded our enrollment targets for three years consecutively,” said Mickey L. Burnim, president of the Bowie State. “I firmly believe that the future of Bowie State University depends upon our ability to attract new students and retain more of those students through graduation.” The University System of Maryland designated Bowie State as a “growth” institution in 2008 based on its rapid ability to add new students; however, the designation has been suspended because of budgetary restraints placed upon USM institutions during the economic recession. To increase student retention, the University’s efforts have included more widely targeting, distributing and publicizing information about tutoring and academic advisement services; extending the hours services are available; and increasing the communication vehicles that make students aware of financial aid opportunities. Initiatives that serve to attract new students include establishing a second doctoral program, Doctor of Applied Science in Computer Science, and a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management; creating an academic program in bioinformatics; building a $79 million fine and performing arts building (currently in progress), and a Center for Business and Graduate Studies (completed in 2007); establishing the Principals’ Institute to prepare students for K-12 principal certification; improving campus facilities such as updating classroom technology; and setting up a security gate house and additional street lights on campus. Also, part of the institution’s strategy to increase enrollment has been “to get the word out” about the University which includes a more vibrant website and an online interactive game, http://ruready.bowiestate.edu/, designed to encourage middle and high school students to begin preparing themselves for college. About Bowie State University Bowie State University (BSU) is an important higher education access portal for qualified persons from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds who seek a high quality and affordable public comprehensive university. The University places special emphasis on the science, technology, teacher education, business, and nursing disciplines within the context of a liberal arts education. For more information about BSU, visit the website at www.bowiestate.edu. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Jehan Bunch
From Columbus, OH Central State University class of 2005 Member Since January 2006 |
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