Student enrollment at Northeast Community College continues its upward climb. The college’s official 10th Day Enrollment Report shows overall enrollment rising for the fourth consecutive year, highlighted by a 7% increase in total headcount over last fall.
“We are proud to be the college of choice for so many students,” said Leah Barrett, president of Northeast. “This growth demonstrates the strong appeal of our programs. Whether students are preparing to transfer to a four-year institution, training for high-demand careers in the trades, or pursuing one of the many other pathways Northeast offers, they know we are here to help them succeed.”
The 10th Day Enrollment Report is a standard measure across higher education that captures official opening enrollment each semester. At Northeast, the report is prepared by the Office of Institutional Research and Analytics.
The Fall 2025 enrollment report shows that Northeast is welcoming its largest first-time freshman class in more than a decade. The college enrolled 1,014 first-time freshmen this fall, representing a 10% increase over Fall 2024. This growth reflects strong interest from recent high school graduates across Northeast’s 20-county service area who see value in beginning their academic or technical training close to home. It also demonstrates the strength of Northeast’s partnerships with regional schools and communities, which help connect students to affordable and accessible higher education opportunities.
Early College enrollment also continues to climb. This fall, 13% more high school students are taking advantage of Northeast’s tuition-free courses compared to Fall 2024, giving them a head start on college while reducing the overall cost of their degree.
In total, Northeast achieved a 7% increase in student headcount, marking the fourth consecutive year of sustained growth.
“These kinds of results don’t happen by accident,” said Amanda Nipp, vice president of Student Services. “They are the result of a clear institutional commitment to student success and strong partnerships with our communities and schools.”
As of the 10th day of the Fall 2025 semester, 5,890 students are enrolled at Northeast, compared to 5,504 students a year ago. This includes 2,381 Early College students, a growing population of high school learners who are getting a jumpstart on their academic and career goals.
Northeast’s enrollment growth supports its strategic priorities: building student pathways to success, fostering innovation and excellence in educational programs, and strengthening the regional workforce through upskilling and credential attainment.
“Our mission is about more than numbers,” Barrett said. “It’s about preparing people across our 20-county service area to reach their goals and contribute to the economic vitality of our communities. These enrollment increases are proof that more learners see Northeast as the place to make that happen.”
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