Oregon Colleges are Experiencing Increased Interest in Career and Technical Education Programs
The surge in enrollment in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs at Oregon colleges highlights the growing need for hands-on training in high-demand skilled professions.
CTE programs equip students with the skills needed for lucrative careers in industries such as healthcare, skilled trades, manufacturing, and information technology, according to the Oregon Community College Association.
CTE has contributed to positive post-pandemic statistics showing that enrollment figures at community colleges, while public universities statewide also increased student enrollment by 3%, according to the Higher Education Coordinating Commission.
Rogue Community College Student Numbers Increased by 50% in the Last Two Years
For the fourth consecutive year, Rogue Community College increased its enrollment figures. The Dean of Enrollment Management, Nicole Sakraida, says the college is striving to return to pre-pandemic student numbers by the end of the current academic year.
RCC has increased student numbers by nearly 19% since the 2022-23 academic year which is 14% higher than community colleges statewide.
Enrollment at RCC has risen by 50% in the last two years and college president, Randy Weber says the school is creeping closer to pre-pandemic student numbers.
Klamath Falls and Umpqua Colleges Also Experience Increased Student Numbers
In Klamath Falls, the Oregon Institute of Technology has maintained the impetus of its increasing enrollment achievements over the last three years and has returned its student enrollment figures to pre-pandemic years.
Enrollment also increased at the Umpqua Community College and Southwestern Oregon Community College.
However, Klamath Community College enrollment was slightly less than the previous year, while a decline in student numbers was also experienced by the Oregon Coast Community College.
SOU Suffers Disappointing Decline in Enrollments
Southern Oregon University suffered a disappointing decline in student numbers. However, on a brighter note, SOU recorded a 1% drop in student figures and not the 6% decline previously projected.
SOU’s Provost and Executive Vice President Casey Shillam said student enrollment declined because of a delay in the rollout of federal student funding, known as FAFSA.
SOU enrollment remains below pre-pandemic numbers causing financial difficulties with a forecasted budget shortfall of $14,6 million by the 2026-27 academic year.
Overall, Oregon Records Positive Increase in Students This Academic Year
Student enrollment at colleges and public universities in Oregon for the current academic year is encouraging.
Student enrollments increased at 12 of 17 community colleges, and four of seven public universities where numbers are now close to pre-pandemic days.
However, student numbers at community colleges remain 17% lower than pre-COVID. Student enrollments in 2024 are between 21% lower and 30% higher than last year.