The Daily Bulletin Archive

Though enrollment numbers are not yet finalized, the incoming Class of 2012 appears to be one of the largest in Buffalo State history. Roughly 1,600 first-year students are registered, representing a 10 percent increase from last year. The total also exceeds this year’s target of 1,470.

“We’re seeing trends continue from last year,” said Mark Petrie, associate vice president for enrollment management. “The academic profile is again strong, and more students are coming from outside the Western New York area.”

Another continuing trend, however, poses a dilemma for the college. More students are choosing to live on campus rather than off during their junior and senior years, and more first-year students want to live on campus as well. The Residence Life Office reports that the college experienced a 14 percent increase in demand for campus housing this semester. But Buffalo State currently does not have space to accommodate demand.

Despite the opening of Cassety Hall last spring, which provided another 150 beds, 190 transfer and returning students are living at the Adam’s Mark Hotel downtown this semester. And although many rooms on campus have been converted to accommodate three occupants, Residence Life predicts that as many as 150 students could still be at the hotel for the start of the spring 2009 semester.

Other statistics continue to be on par with last year, too. More than 250 freshmen and transfers joined theEducational Opportunity Program, and some 85 students signed up for one of four learning communities. The All College Honors Program welcomed another 47 students (41 freshmen) this semester.

Total enrollment is projected to be up from last year by more than 200 students. The college has already registered more than 9,200 undergraduate and 1,800 graduate students this fall; total enrollment is expected to surpass 11,150.

Final enrollment numbers will be available after the freeze-file date in mid-October. The Bulletin will continue to provide updates throughout the year.