Arkansas State University Three Rivers (ASUTR) reported a record enrollment for the two-year college. For Fall 2023, the College realized a 10.7 percent increase with 2,028 students enrolled. Full-time equivalent enrollment (total number of course credits enrolled divided by 15 – the number of credits per semester considered as full-time) is up 21.5 percent at 877. Last fall, ASU Three Rivers enrollment was up nearly 17% from the prior fall, 1,843 students compared with 1,578.
Arkansas State University Three Rivers Chancellor, Dr. Steve Rook, credits the enrollment increase to several factors. “With the addition of athletics this fall and the continued growth of Saline County Career Technical Campus (SCCTC) located between Malvern and Benton, Arkansas State University Three Rivers is being recognized more and more as a premiere institution of higher education. People see an increase in the value of an education from us.”
Rook continued, “The College is also making strong efforts at listening to the businesses and industries in our region and finding out what they need for their workforces. The College has been responsive to their needs and developing new innovative programs that are relevant to our local communities.”
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Carla Crutchfield indicated that many elements influenced the increase, “Our recruiters have been to more than twice as many college fairs across the state and are being invited to more each week. We are able to offer competitive institutional scholarships and we’ve streamlined the application process for those.” Crutchfield continued, “Prospective student requests for tours has steadily increased over the last year and shows no signs of waning.”
From its humble beginnings as a vocational technical school in 1969, transitioning to a technical college in 1991, it is evident the College has experienced tremendous growth in its 54-year history. Having seen many students pass through its doors seeking a better future for themselves, for their families, and for their communities. Arkansas State University Three Rivers remains committed to continuing the traditions and successes that are valuable to our community and our state.
Ms. Crutchfield said it best, “It is always a great day to be an Eagle!”