WSU’s High Summer Enrollment Numbers Break Records

By Jeff Willadsen, WSU Academic Outreach and Innovation

Washington State University is reporting a record-breaking number of enrollments for Summer Session 2020.

Summer Session enrollments recorded across the WSU system have increased by nearly 15% compared to enrollments recorded at the same time in 2019.

In compliance with Washington State’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order, Summer Session courses at all six WSU campuses are being provided via distance delivery methods. 

According to Brian Slinker, WSU Interim Provost and Executive Vice President, the surge of summer enrollments is a highly encouraging trend, especially as the university adapts to new methods of learning in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is very gratifying to see these enrollments because it reflects student confidence in WSU’s ability to provide high quality education using online and distance delivery methods,” said Slinker. “Academic Outreach and Innovation and our Global Campus have the expertise to support faculty across the WSU system. Everyone’s hard work to educate our students is clearly being perceived by those choosing to enroll in record numbers.”

Academic Outreach and Innovation (AOI) is the division of WSU that promotes and supports the use of academic technology and innovative pedagogy. AOI administers Summer Session on the Pullman and Global campuses and provides technology and distance learning training for faculty.

“Our ultimate objective is to help students succeed and achieve their academic goals, no matter the mode of delivery or time of year,” said Dave Cillay, Global Campus Chancellor and Vice President of AOI. “Summer Session is a valuable opportunity for students to accelerate their time to degree. It’s fantastic to see so many Cougs taking advantage of that opportunity and embracing new and innovative methods of learning as we look to the future.”

Sabrina Johnson, a pre-med major on the Pullman Campus, enrolled in Summer Session courses for the first time this year.

 “I chose to take summer classes to make sure I graduate on time,” said Johnson. “I plan continue taking classes here until I do, whether that’s online or in person. After my experience this spring, I feel like the alternative modes of instruction we’re using now are going meet my needs, and I’m confident that the WSU staff will do a great job making sure they do.”

Renny Christopher, Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs for WSU’s Vancouver Campus, sees the enrollment increase as a positive sign that students are committed to completing their educations with WSU and trust the institution despite the uncertain times ahead.

“I think the robust enrollments we have this summer indicate how much our students want to stay connected with us and to keep moving forward with their educations,” said Christopher. “As we all make our way through the uncertainties of the pandemic, our students should know that we’re here for them, and that they can expect the same high-quality learning experience and connection to the VanCoug community no matter the mode of delivery.”

Summer Session enrollments are still open for the 3-week Intersession courses in August. Go to summer.wsu.edu to learn more or enroll.