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Exciting academic programs, enhanced access to computer technology, and exterior campus improvements are a few of the reasons officials at Dakota State University are citing for higher new student registrations for the fall 2005 semester. 

Although official enrollment numbers will not be released until later in the fall, Dakota State University is estimating a 20% increase in new students, including first year and transfer students.  

According to Dakota State University President Douglas Knowlton, this significant increase can be partially credited to a number of new strategies implemented for recruiting students and awarding scholarships.  “We did some things this year to get the Dakota State message out to potential students, including putting information about our programs into the hands of high school technology teachers and other influential people. We also changed our award process to offer scholarships to a greater number of deserving students.”

 Director of Admission Amy Crissinger says the increase is also due to the success of the wireless mobile tablet pc initiative, which put a tablet pc into the hands of nearly every student on campus, and other academic changes.  “Many high school students we talk to have heard about DSU’s reputation for technology.  They know about the tablet computers and are excited to see how that has changed teaching and learning at DSU.  It has impacted all of our academic programs in education, business, computing, and the arts and sciences.”  

Dakota State University also has new programs that integrate technology, including forensic scientific technology and information assurance.  “These are fields that students are excited about and want to get into,” says Crissinger.  “At Dakota State we can offer them the courses and background they need to go out after graduation and get jobs blocking computer hackers or analyzing crime scenes.” 

According to Steve Shirley, Vice President for Student Affairs at DSU, the increase in students has an effect on the entire campus.  “Increased enrollment means that more students are utilizing campus services such as the residence halls, bookstore, dining services and the student center.  Increased usage generates more revenue for the university which in turn allows DSU to continue exploring campus enhancements and campus growth options.”  Shirley says having more students in the residence halls also provides opportunities for the campus to engage students in a wide variety of events and activities. 

“There are numerous positive developments underway at DSU that enhance the learning experience for our students,” said Dr. Knowlton, citing the wireless campus, the  new University signage and message boards, the campus landscaping project, and the effort to enrich faculty-student advising.  “The word is spreading throughout the state and region about the positive academic environment at Dakota State University.  As we look toward 2006 we will continue to not only focus on our recruitment efforts, but pay increased attention to ensuring the success of those students currently at DSU.”