DSU sees record enrollment growth in latest IHL report
Cleveland, MS (11/03/2025) — Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4678
Email: nduff@deltastate.edu
DSU sees record enrollment growth in latest IHL report
CLEVELAND, Miss. - Enrollment at Delta State University grew by 5.2% for Fall 2025, increasing to 2791 students. The university also saw its highest freshman enrollment rate growth since the pandemic, increasing the class size of full-time freshmen by 38% from Fall '24 to Fall '25. DSU also saw a 15% increase in transfer students and a 33% increase in first-time graduates.
"We are thrilled to welcome our largest and most dynamic freshman class in years," said DSU President Dr. Dan Ennis. "This milestone reflects the exceptional value of a Delta State education, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the growing confidence families place in our mission to transform lives through innovative, student-centered learning."
Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning released enrollment statistics this week that show an overall increase in enrollment from Fall '24 figures. Fall enrollment for '25 is 81,961 for the system, compared to 79,817 students enrolled in Fall '24, representing a 2.7% increase. Delta State's growth rate was tied with the University of Mississippi for second largest in the IHL system, trailing only the Mississippi University for Women, which saw a growth rate of 8.1%.
"Mississippi's universities continue to set a high standard for our students in terms of value and price, and these enrollment figures reflect the confidence that families from around the state and beyond have in our university system," said Dr. Al Rankins Jr., Commissioner of Higher Education. "With the support from the Mississippi Legislature and Governor Reeves, we know that our state's universities will continue to be seen as a place where investments in time, funding, academics, and research will have a strong return."
As DSU embarks on its centennial year, Ennis and his colleagues are focused on continuing to increase enrollment. During a recent campus town hall, Ennis said, "Delta State has powerful strengths that will continue to attract students. Our commitment to personalized support, faculty and staff who invest in every aspect of student success, a vibrant and engaging campus life, and our deep-rooted dedication to this community and region-these core values remain unwavering."
For the full IHL report, visit www.mississippi.edu/.
For more information about Delta State University, or to apply, visit their website at 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 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
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