Nicholls State University has reported a notable rise in the number of first-generation college students for the fall 2024 semester. According to the 14th-day class statistics, 56.8% of this year’s incoming freshman class falls into the first-generation category, as per this news release from Nicholls. This demographic includes students whose parents or guardians did not obtain a bachelor’s degree. This figure marks a 3.1% increase from the previous academic year, reflecting Nicholls’ continued efforts to support and expand access to higher education.

Despite the increase in first-generation students, Nicholls’ overall enrollment has experienced a slight decline. The current student body totals 6,065, which is a decrease of 135 students from fall 2023. This drop is largely attributed to a reduction in dual enrollment students and a decrease in residents from Nicholls’ eight-parish service region. The student body comprises 5,539 undergraduates and 526 graduate students. Nonetheless, Nicholls continues to excel in student retention, with a strong 76.6% retention rate for full-time, bachelor-degree-seeking students year after year.

Renee Hicks, Assistant Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness, Access, and Success, emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting its students. She remarked that Nicholls’ dedicated efforts ensure that students are well-prepared to succeed both academically and professionally. Hicks highlighted that the increasing number of local students continuing their education at Nicholls is a clear indicator of the personalized and supportive environment fostered by the university’s faculty and staff. This support not only helps retain students but also contributes to the retention of graduates within the service region.

In terms of university housing, Nicholls has experienced a high occupancy rate, with 97% of the 1,399 available beds filled this semester. This high demand reflects the growing appeal of on-campus living among students.

Several academic departments at Nicholls have shown impressive growth compared to the previous year. The Management and Marketing departments have seen a 20.3% increase in enrollment, while the Applied Sciences department has surged by an impressive 49.2%. The Music department has also grown by 19.6%, and the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute has experienced an 11.1% increase. Additionally, the Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management program has grown by 10.6%. These increases underscore the expanding interest in these fields and the university’s successful efforts to enhance its academic offerings.

The most popular majors for the fall 2024 semester at Nicholls include Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Business Administration/Computer Information Systems, Biology, Teacher Education, and Psychology, Counseling, and Family Studies. This diverse array of popular fields highlights the broad range of academic interests among the student body and the university’s ability to cater to these needs effectively.

Ahead of the fall semester, Nicholls hosted its third annual First-Generation Experience event, sponsored by OnPath Federal Credit Union. This event was designed to equip first-generation students with essential tools for their college journey. The conference-style event offered a variety of informational sessions, covering topics such as effective study strategies, course preparation, time management, financial aid, and campus involvement. The aim of the event was to provide first-generation students with the resources and confidence needed to navigate their college experience successfully. The impact of a supportive college experience on first-generation students can significantly influence their future career trajectories and personal achievements.

Nicholls State University’s efforts to support first-generation students and enhance academic programs reflect its commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive educational environment. The increased enrollment of first-generation students and the growth in various academic departments are indicative of the university’s ongoing success and adaptability in meeting the evolving needs of its student population.

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