UNK’s fall enrollment stands at 4,069 undergraduate and 1,643 graduate students, bringing total enrollment to 5,699. That’s down from just over 6,000 in 2022, a trend that reflects not only what’s happening across the state, but also what colleges and universities nationwide are experiencing.
Todd Gottula, UNK’s director of communications and marketing, said the University continues to draw students from 90 Nebraska counties and 47 states.
“Enrollment has declined modestly over the past four years, mirroring national and regional trends,” Gottula said. “Even with fewer students, UNK continues to attract students from across Nebraska and beyond.”
National factors such as declining high school graduates, increased competition for students, and challenges in international recruitment are among the main influences on enrollment, Gottula said.
According to the University’s press release, undergraduate enrollment is 4,056, down 157 students (3.7%), while graduate enrollment is 1,643, down 25 students (1.5%). International students number 263, down 27 students (9.3%). First-time freshmen enrollment stands at 803, down 72 students (8.2%), while first-time transfer enrollment increased slightly to 302, up six students (2%).
While all three of UNK’s colleges have seen slight overall decreases, the University continues to see growth in high-demand areas, including marketing/agribusiness, management, kinesiology and sport sciences, health sciences, political science, industrial technology and communication disorders.
Gottula said UNK leaders are responding with a multi-pronged strategy. Recruitment efforts include expanding outreach across Nebraska and nearby states, as well as building graduate and online programs. The University emphasizes affordability, small class sizes and a supportive campus community. Dual-enrollment pathways and personalized outreach are being highlighted to make higher education more accessible.
“UNK’s student success initiatives set us apart,” Gottula said. “Retention is a strength, and we’re building on it with dedicated strategies, better onboarding and student-centered programs that keep students engaged through graduation.”
Special initiatives also target key student groups. A new transfer adviser, expanded programming for first-generation students and the International Friendship Program are designed to strengthen support systems and improve student success.
Gottula said UNK’s enrollment trends mirror those of regional and national peers. Both UNL and UNO reported declines this fall, and Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association schools like Emporia State, Fort Hays State and Pittsburg State have experienced five-year declines of 13% to 22%.
Looking ahead, UNK plans to continue aligning academic programs with workforce demand, particularly in rural health, business, education and technology. The University is also leveraging AI-driven outreach and advanced analytics to connect with students in new ways.
“The numbers matter, but what matters most is impact,” Gottula said. “UNK is making a measurable difference for Nebraska’s students, workforce and economy. We’re shaping the state’s future while building strong momentum on campus and in Kearney.”
