Delta State enrollment posts second straight year of growth
Cleveland, MS (11/02/2026) — Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4678
Email: nduff@deltastate.edu
Delta State enrollment posts second straight year of growth
CLEVELAND, Miss. - Enrollment at Delta State University increased to 2,863 students for fall 2026, a 2.6% gain over the 2,791 students enrolled last fall.
The increase marks a second consecutive year of growth. The university reported a 5.2% enrollment increase in fall 2025.
"Delta State has powerful strengths that will continue to attract students, and this second consecutive year of enrollment growth reflects the work our campus community is doing to build on those strengths," said DSU President Dr. Dan Ennis. "Our faculty and staff take a personal interest in helping students succeed. That commitment, combined with strong academic programs and an engaging campus experience, gives students and families compelling reasons to choose Delta State."
Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning reported total fall 2026 enrollment of 81,771 students across the state's eight public universities, compared with 81,961 students in fall 2025. The figures represent a small systemwide decrease of 0.2%.
"Serving nearly 82,000 students this fall, our universities continue to provide higher education opportunities and prepare students for the workforce and life," said Dr. Al Rankins Jr., Commissioner of Higher Education. "In this very competitive higher education environment, all of our universities must be laser focused on recruitment, retention, and positive student outcomes."
Delta State's continued enrollment growth builds on the university's efforts to connect students with academic programs, career preparation and the individual attention that defines the Delta State experience.
For the full IHL enrollment report, visit www.mississippi.edu.
For more information about Delta State University or to apply, visit www.deltastate.edu.
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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,800 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 15 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
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