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Williston State College Achieves Record High Enrollment for Spring 2025
Posted: Feb 12 2025
Williston, ND — Williston State College (WSC) has once again set a new enrollment record, marking the highest student headcount in the institution’s 63-year history. The Spring 2025 census reports a total enrollment of 1,236 students, representing a 20.6% increase from Spring 2024. The growth follows a record-breaking Fall 2024 enrollment and reflects WSC’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education to students in the region and beyond.
The number of full-time equivalent (FTE) students has also seen an impressive 25.2% increase, reaching 810.99 FTE, demonstrating stronger student engagement and credit-hour completion. Additionally, international student enrollment surged by 32.8%, and transfer student enrollment rose by 38.1%, reinforcing WSC’s expanding reach and appeal.
Dr. Bernell Hirning, President of Williston State College, attributes this sustained growth to increased outreach to current and prospective students, new and expanded marketing efforts, and ensuring that “the right people are in the right seats, doing things the right way.”
“This remarkable achievement reflects the hard work of our faculty, staff, and enrollment teams, as well as the impact of our strategic initiatives,” Dr. Hirning stated. “We are seeing the results of a concerted effort to not only attract new students but also to retain and support them throughout their academic journey.”
The increase spans multiple student categories, including:
- Freshmen enrollment rose by 18.6%, totaling 842 students.
- Sophomore enrollment increased by 25.1%, reaching 394 students.
- Dual Credit and Early Entry student enrollment saw a 26.1% increase, with 502 high school students taking WSC courses.
- Online-only enrollment grew by 23.4%, with 327 students opting for distance learning.
The continued growth follows WSC’s recent enhancements to academic offerings, scholarship opportunities, and student support services. As WSC looks ahead, the institution remains committed to fostering student success and ensuring that higher education remains a viable, flexible, and valuable option for students of all backgrounds.
For more information about enrollment and academic opportunities at Williston State College, visit www.willistonstate.edu or contact WSC Enrollment Services at (701) 774-4200.
where the people make the difference