Montcalm Community College Enrollment Surges 16.2% This Fall

UPDATE: Montcalm Community College (MCC) has just announced a remarkable 16.2% surge in enrollment, reaching 2,035 students this fall, marking a significant rebound since the pandemic’s onset. This growth positions MCC as the top community college in Michigan for enrollment increases, leaving President Bradley Barrick nearly speechless.

The latest figures were revealed during a board meeting on November 7, 2023, where Barrick shared the exciting news that 1,654 students are already registered for the upcoming spring semester, an impressive 16.54% increase compared to last year. “It’s mind-blowing,” Barrick expressed, underscoring the college’s growth trajectory since the 1,414 students enrolled in fall 2020.

The college’s total contact hours, a critical metric for state funding, have also surged by 18.83% compared to last year, indicating a robust academic engagement among students. The dual enrollment program, which allows high school students to earn college credits, has seen a striking increase, with 704 dual-enrolled students this semester, up from 664 last spring. Over the last five years, the number of dually enrolled students has skyrocketed by 134%, from 349 to 817.

Looking ahead, Barrick confirmed that the college aims to maintain this momentum and expand its outreach, particularly into Ionia County. Notably, Belding High School, located outside Montcalm County, leads with the highest dual enrollment, boasting 88 students. This trend raises questions about transportation and accessibility for students who must travel significant distances, with Ionia High School situated 23 miles from MCC’s campus in Sidney Township.

In response to these concerns, Barrick stated that the college is exploring options to establish a physical presence in Ionia, potentially partnering with local institutions like the Ionia County Career Center. “We are on the front end of those conversations,” Barrick noted, emphasizing the importance of accessibility for all students.

The enrollment growth at MCC not only highlights the resilience of educational institutions post-pandemic but also reflects a growing interest in higher education among local communities. As the college approaches its all-time high enrollment of 2,328 students from fall 2009, it is evident that efforts to engage and support students are paying off.

For students, parents, and educators, this news is a clear signal that Montcalm Community College is committed to providing accessible and quality education, ensuring that more individuals can pursue their academic and career aspirations.

Stay tuned for more updates as MCC continues to break records and redefine educational opportunities in Michigan.