Samford University continues a decade-long growth pattern that exceeds national norms, setting a fall enrollment record for the 10th consecutive year. University officials announced a record of 5,619 students as of Sept. 7.
Included in the totals are 3,535 undergraduate and 2,084 graduate/professional students, representing 44 states, the District of Columbia, and 30 countries. The freshman class of 958 is the largest, most academically accomplished and most diverse in Samford’s 177 year history.
“At a time when many private institutions are struggling with enrollment, we are in a position of consistency and strength,” said Samford Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management R. Philip Kimrey. “Our institutional story is effectively told by motivated, trustworthy staff and faculty members throughout our admission process, and I am grateful to them for creating an environment that is so focused on students and their families. We find the cumulative effort of our people provides an experience in which students thrive.”
The records come at a time of national recognition and expansion across all academic schools at the university. Samford’s strategic plan outlines ambitious goals for enrollment and increasing academic program offerings.
“The continued incremental growth in enrollment shows student response to our campus-wide commitment to providing students with outstanding academic opportunities in a supportive and nurturing environment,” added Kimrey. “We are grateful for each student and family who chooses to invest their future at Samford.”
Samford is regularly recognized as one of the top Christian universities in the United States. In its annual ranking of the best colleges, U.S. News & World Report ranks Samford #4 in the South among regional universities and many graduate programs consistently rank among the top in the country. Samford is the top-ranked university in the state of Alabama in rankings published by The Wall Street Journal and The Economist. The Wall Street Journal also ranks Samford #12 in the nation for student engagement.
The reach of the university is also expanding through the addition of distinctive new bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree offerings. Samford has introduced new programs in audiology, Christian ministry, data analytics and physician assistant studies over the past year. A number of additional programs are currently in development.
Samford currently offers more than 200 majors, minors and concentrations across its 10 academic units: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health.