Anabaptist institutions report mixed fall enrollment trends

Canadian Mennonite University reported an increase in fall enrollment, with 221 new students bringing the total to 775. The growth was supported by the introduction of a bachelor of education after-degree program and a free dormitory option for first-year students, which led to a more than threefold increase in residential enrollment. About 28% of new students are first-generation, and 19% identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. Graduate enrollment remained stable.

Hesston College saw a third consecutive year of growth, with total enrollment reaching 407, up from 394 the previous year. The campus population increased by 24 students, the largest rise since 1989, with 45 commuting students. The college noted a 13% increase in retention rates, attributing this to a clearer academic model focused on four-year professional degrees and improved student support. International enrollment, which had dropped due to visa delays, rebounded to 62 students from 28 countries.

Conrad Grebel University College experienced a second consecutive year of growth, with 231 students participating in its residence program, up from 215 the previous year. Course enrollments at the University of Waterloo, where Grebel offers some programs, saw a slight decline, particularly in larger music courses. The master of theological studies program welcomed 10 new students, increasing the total to 43, while the master of peace and conflict studies decreased from 32 to 26.

Goshen College reported an increase in undergraduate enrollment, rising from 718 to 743, with the largest incoming class since 2017. This growth offset declines in adult and graduate enrollment. The college continues to balance its academic offerings and student demographics, reflecting broader trends in Anabaptist higher education.

The enrollment trends highlight both challenges and opportunities for Anabaptist institutions. While some campuses see growth, others face declines in specific programs, underscoring the need for strategic planning and adaptability. These changes reflect broader shifts in higher education, including evolving student needs, financial considerations, and institutional priorities. The Anabaptist tradition of service and community continues to shape these institutions’ missions and outreach efforts.

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