Utah colleges report record numbers in enrollment and awarded certificates

SLCC announces record enrollment

Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) announced a record enrollment of 31,473 students for the fall 2025 semester. The school shared that this is the highest number of students enrolled since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The college shared that it is a nearly 15% increase from the previous academic year.

“I’m proud to see our enrollment numbers rise so significantly this fall—marking our highest peak since the pandemic,” said SLCC President Greg Peterson. “This growth in new and returning students reflects the College’s continued commitment to creating an environment where students can thrive. Whether they’re here to transfer to a four-year university, earn a certificate, or enter the workforce, SLCC is an excellent launchpad setting our students up for future success.”

UTU awards most degrees in history

Utah Tech University (UTU) reported that it awarded the most degree certificates in its history.

The university shared that it awarded 4,696 certificates and degrees to 3,922 graduates during the 2024-25 academic year. This is a 76% increase in awards and 26% increase in graduates since 2021.

“Through Utah Tech University’s polytechnic approach to education, students are learning through hands-on experiences that prepare them to begin meaningful careers and meet our community`s workforce demands the day after they graduate,” Shane B. Smeed, president of UTU, said. “Our growth reflects UT`s commitment to keeping class sizes small, tuition affordable and support accessible initiatives that help students succeed and finish their degrees.”

The school shared that the top certificates awarded were general studies, certified nursing assistant, accounting and information systems, computer fundamentals, and digital film.

SUU marks new high in digital learning

Southern Utah University (SUU) reported that it now serves over now 3,691 fully online students. This is a new high for the university in digital learning.

“These strong enrollment numbers demonstrate that SUU is effectively meeting the evolving educational needs of our state,” said SUU President Mindy Benson. “We aren’t just counting heads; we’re demonstrating our ability to deliver flexible, high-quality pathways that make college accessible to every Utahn, from high school students to working professionals, ensuring we continue to grow the talent pool that powers our future economy.”

U of U all-time high total enrollment

The University of Utah (U of U) reported its largest incoming class in its 175-year history — 6,513 first-year students and 1,497 new transfer students. That is an all-time high total enrollment of 38,261 students for the institution.

“Enrollment growth only matters when it leads to student success,” said Paul Kohn, senior vice provost for strategic enrollment and student success. “We’re investing in every stage of the student journey – from access and affordability to academic support and career readiness – to help students reach graduation in a timely and meaningful way.”

Additionally, the university awarded its largest number of degrees ever in the 2024–25 academic year.

WSU serving more students than ever

Weber State University (WSU) reported that it awarded 7,553 credentials last academic year. That is a record number for the university.

“We’re extremely proud of those numbers because they’re more than figures,” WSU President Brad Mortensen said. “Those are the students who persevered. We’ve done hard work across the university to ensure we’re removing barriers, innovating wherever possible, continually checking in with students to ensure they reach their goals — one being their degree, but ultimately uplifting their life and career.”

WSU shared that it is serving more students than ever this fall with a headcount of 33,293.