While universities across the nation reeled from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, 8,729 Utah Valley University students earned 10,443 degrees and certificates this May and shattered the university’s previous graduation record by 2,319 students.

According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, college undergraduate enrollment levels fell by 3.5% this spring, but it was during this time that UVU celebrated the largest graduating class in its history.

The data from NSC revealed that in the 3.5% decrease in undergraduate enrollment across all sectors of higher education, public four-year institutions saw a decrease in enrollment of 0.6%, while public two-year institutions saw a decrease of 9.5%.

Now UVU has reported another increase in enrollment numbers this fall despite the fact that college enrollment nationwide is experiencing the largest decline in the last decade.

With its headcount of 41,262 students, UVU continues to educate the most students in the state of Utah. UVU also saw its highest number of female students, as well as Black/African American students enrolled this fall in its history.

“UVU continues to be a place where students from all walks of life can achieve their academic goals and positively contribute to our state,” Astrid S. Tuminez, president of UVU, said in a press release. “We believe every individual has unlimited potential and deserves the transforming benefits of a high-quality education.”

This continual increase in enrollment could be attributed to the flexible learning options offered at UVU. According to a press release distributed by the university, 50% of its classes are taught in a traditional face-to-face format, 29.5% of classes are taught solely online, and 20.5% of classes are taught both in-person and online, or in live interactive or livestreaming formats.

“We take a personalized approach at UVU that includes small class sizes, specialized resources and advising, and digital tools such as our new student app,” said Wayne Vaught, provost and senior vice president of Academic Affairs at UVU, in a press release. “Many of our students work full time or part time while going to school. Our programs are designed so the students can adapt them to their needs, allowing them to succeed and reach their academic goals.”

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