Moraine Park Sees Positive Enrollment Trends

Moraine Park Technical College is seeing positive enrollment trends for the 2023-24 academic year– a welcomed win within the higher ed landscape.

“We have seen positive trends in our enrollment numbers for the last couple of years–this year’s headcount is the highest in three years. We are optimistic these trends indicate a continued upswing,” Bonnie Baerwald, Moraine Park President, said.

Moraine Park students began classes Aug. 21. Compiled Sept. 1—three weeks after the start of the fall semester—Moraine Park’s enrollment data shows gains in a few key areas:

• • Full Time Equivalents (FTE)s are up.
    • At Moraine Park, the number of credits enrolled in for the 2023 fall semester is up 1 percent– overall, more credits are being taken at the College this fall semester.
  • Headcount is up.
    • As of Sept. 1, Moraine Park’s headcount was 5,232, up from fall 2022 (4,969) and the highest in three years.
  • The College has seen many overall enrollment gains.
    • The business management, automotive and criminal justice programs have seen a much-needed increase.
    • Moraine Park’s new associate of arts/associate of science (AA/AS)/University Transfer agreements are leading to more students in the general studies program areas.
    • The apprenticeship offerings and boot camp opportunities through the College’s Economic and Workforce Development area continue to see increases– providing lasting solutions for local businesses and community members.
    • Moraine Park’s instruction in the areas of business and entrepreneurship within the Department of Corrections (DOC) has also contributed to growth overall, which shows an overall positive impact on Moraine Park’s enrollment numbers.
  • Student retention numbers are also holding strong.

“Our job is to be a key player in making the future happen—and we do that by helping our students and communities succeed,” Jim Barrett, vice president for student services, said. “Our enrollment numbers this academic year reflect that we are staying the course and focusing on key areas of growth where we knew we could see an impact.”

The key contributors to the 2023 academic year gains are the AA/AS (liberal arts) programs, apprenticeships, and DOC partnerships.

Additionally, there has been an enhanced focus on K-12 direct enrollments and efforts in specific program areas like business, IT, manufacturing, and trades—all areas of need for Moraine Park’s district communities. The College has also made efforts to invite students and families to Moraine Park’s three campuses frequently. To aid in these efforts, Moraine Park holds an open house, Discover Moraine Park, in the fall and spring. The next opportunity to participate is this fall– Oct. 4 in Fond du Lac, Oct. 11 in West Bend, and Oct. 25 in Beaver Dam.