University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College sees 10% growth in enrollment
University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College announced a 10-percent increase in enrollment this fall, bringing the total student body to 2,381. This marks the third consecutive year of growth for the institution.
The news is especially significant as many public and private colleges in Ohio face financial challenges. Earlier this year, Notre Dame College in northern Ohio closed after 102 years of operation. The Ohio Department of Higher Education has reported a 12.2-percent decline in student enrollment across the state over the past decade.
On a national level, college enrollment has experienced only modest gains following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Student Clearinghouse reported that enrollment increased by just over one percent from 2022 to 2023. Updated numbers from 23-24 are not yet available.
Shortly after the pandemic, the university introduced an affordability plan, which lowered tuition, room and board, and invested more resources in student support services. The plan cut tuition bills by more than 25 percent, significantly reducing the cost of a four-year degree.
Rio has made other significant strides in recent years, launching new programs, enhancing existing ones, and expanding its presence in surrounding communities through new centers. One key indicator of the institution's success is the performance of 2024 graduates in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) and Radiologic Technology programs. All students from these programs passed their state licensure exams, underscoring the high quality of education at Rio.
The 100-percent success rate in Radiologic Technology beats the 75-percent benchmark set by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Additionally, the success rate for DMS exams vary nationally between 59-74 percent, making Rio’s 100 percent in that area even more impressive.
This growth and academic achievement highlight the institution’s ongoing commitment to serving its students and adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education.
About University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College: Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Rio stands as a beacon of accessible and affordable education. Our main campus is a haven for learning, innovation, and technology, offering students the security and charm of a small-town environment. With more than 60 diverse programs to choose from, Rio empowers students to pursue associate, bachelor, and master degrees, along with certificate programs. Our commitment extends to four regional centers — Jackson, McArthur, Meigs and Pike — dedicated to enriching their communities by providing quality education and fostering a robust workforce. At the core of our institution are passionate faculty members who serve as both educators and mentors, devoted to the academic and personal growth of each student. Rio's academically challenging programs are complemented by a wealth of extracurricular opportunities, creating a holistic educational experience.
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