Growing Enrollment at Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College
Bowling Green, KY – Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKyCTC) is witnessing a significant increase in student enrollment this fall, with a notable rise of nearly 12%, bringing the total of credential-seeking students to 3,282. This increase stands out as the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), which encompasses 16 community colleges, expects its enrollment to reach the highest levels in a decade.
Positive Outlook from Leadership
Interim President of SKyCTC, Brooke Justice, expressed excitement over the surge in students, stating, “We look forward to supporting the students in their pursuit of a more prosperous future.” This optimistic viewpoint reflects the ongoing commitment of the college to meet the educational needs of its community.
Enrollment Trends Across Kentucky
KCTCS recently reported that its overall enrollment is projected to increase by 8.4%, totaling over 85,000 students. The increase is attributed to broader access across various demographics including all student classifications, races, ethnicities, and age groups. Additionally, students are showing greater interest in essential industries.
Focus on Technical Programs
At SKyCTC, every academic program has seen an uptick in enrollment, with health-related fields, particularly nursing, drawing notable interest. Other fields like advanced manufacturing, business, and information technology have also experienced growth, aligning with current job market needs.
Statewide Enrollment in Key Industries
According to KCTCS statistics, health care-related programs led the way with an increase of 17%. Other sectors like construction saw a rise of 10.6%, advanced manufacturing increased by 8.7%, and business and IT services expanded by 3.4%. Transportation and logistics also reported a growth of 2.8%. These sectors are critical and often targeted for scholarship programs.
Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship
The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship aims to support students pursuing careers in high-demand sectors, covering tuition costs for those enrolled in fields such as health care, business and IT, advanced manufacturing, construction, and logistics.
Increased Dual-Credit Enrollment
SKyCTC has also noted a steady rise in enrollment for dual-credit courses, which give high school students the chance to earn college credits before graduation. The number of students who continued their education at SKyCTC after taking these courses surged from 367 to 495, representing an increase of more than one-third.
Affordability and Scholarships Driving Growth
This growth in dual-credit enrollment can be attributed to the affordability of SKyCTC and supportive programs like the SKY Merit Scholarship and the Dual Credit To Finish scholarship, both of which provide financial assistance to qualified students.
Retention Improvements Post-Pandemic
Student retention rates have remained steady since the pandemic but have seen improvements as a result of various initiatives launched by KCTCS. These initiatives include a redesigned orientation, mandatory academic advising each semester, and the assignment of student ambassadors to assist new students. Additional support is offered through resources like food pantries, emergency funds, and scholarships.
Conclusion
The upward trend in student enrollment at SKyCTC reflects a growing commitment among Kentuckians to invest in education and pursue careers in high-demand job sectors. As community colleges like SKyCTC continue to adapt and respond to the needs of a changing workforce, the focus remains on creating a sustainable path for future generations in Kentucky’s workforce.
