Radford University: Student Population And Campus Life

Radford University is a public university in Radford, Virginia, with a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,704 as of Fall 2023. The university's main campus in Radford, Virginia, and Radford University Carilion in Roanoke, Virginia, together enrolled more than 6,000 undergraduate students in the Fall of 2024. The total enrollment for Fall 2024 was 7,686 students, including undergraduate and graduate students. The university offers a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for student engagement, with a focus on teaching and learning.

Total student population: ~7,800

Radford University is a public university in Radford, Virginia, with a total student population of around 7,800. The university's current president, Bret S. Danilowicz, has been in this role since July 1, 2022. The university's administration is overseen by a 15-member board, appointed by the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, who serve four-year terms. Each year, the board selects a student and a faculty member to act as advisory representatives.

The university offers a wide range of academic, cultural, human service, and research programs. It is well known for its strong faculty-student bonds, innovative use of technology, and vibrant student life on its beautiful 211-acre American classical campus. Radford University provides students with numerous opportunities to get involved and succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

The university offers 75 bachelor's degree programs in 47 disciplines and six certificates at the undergraduate level. There are also 27 master's programs in 23 disciplines and five doctoral programs at the graduate level, as well as 19 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master's certificate. With such a diverse range of programs, it's no surprise that the university has attracted a substantial student population.

In addition to its robust academic offerings, Radford University also boasts a thriving student community. There are over 200 clubs and organizations on campus, catering to a variety of interests. Students can join fraternities and sororities, explore recreational sports, and engage with numerous media outlets, such as literary magazines, newspapers, and online stations. The university's athletic teams, known as the Highlanders, compete in 16 NCAA varsity sports for men and women. With so many opportunities for involvement, it's clear how Radford University has built such a strong student community.

Undergraduate enrollment: ~6,200

Undergraduate enrollment at Radford University is approximately 6,200 students. This includes students enrolled at the university's main campus in Radford, Virginia, as well as those enrolled at Radford University Carilion in Roanoke, Virginia.

Radford University is a public university that offers a wide range of academic programs for its undergraduate students. The university has seven undergraduate colleges and schools, including the College of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences, the College of Education and Human Development, and the College of Visual and Performing Arts, among others. These colleges and schools provide curricula for undergraduates in over 100 fields, including liberal arts, business, sciences, and teacher education.

The university's undergraduate enrollment has been growing in recent years. In fall 2024, the total number of undergraduate, in-person students on the main campus was 5,059, an increase of 396 students compared to fall 2023. This growth is driven by a significant increase in new freshman and transfer students. The university's targeted local recruitment efforts and improved transfer pathways have contributed to this positive trend.

Radford University's undergraduate enrollment of around 6,200 reflects its appeal to students seeking a comprehensive educational experience. The university's strong faculty-student bonds, innovative use of technology, and vibrant student life enhance its academic offerings. With a variety of degree programs, extracurricular activities, and a focus on student engagement, Radford University provides a well-rounded and attractive option for undergraduates in Virginia and beyond.

Graduate enrollment: ~1,600

Graduate enrollment at Radford University is approximately 1,600 students. This figure includes students enrolled in master's, doctoral, and post-baccalaureate programs. The university offers a wide range of graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health, art, education, nursing, and more.

The College of Graduate Studies and Research, one of the eight colleges at Radford University, provides a diverse range of graduate programs. The college offers eighteen-degree programs in fields such as art, business, communication, counseling, criminal justice, education, English, music, nursing, and social work. This includes master's and doctoral programs, contributing to the overall graduate enrollment at the university.

Radford University's graduate programs are designed to cater to a diverse student body with varying educational and professional goals. The university emphasizes teaching and learning, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership development, and a sense of community among its graduate students. The university is committed to continuous improvement and ensures that its curriculum meets the changing needs of society.

The graduate enrollment at Radford University reflects the university's focus on providing advanced educational opportunities to students seeking to further their knowledge and skills. With a significant number of graduate students, the university offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for those pursuing graduate studies. The graduate programs are designed to equip students with the necessary tools and expertise to excel in their chosen fields and contribute to their professional growth.

The approximate 1,600 graduate students at Radford University contribute to the overall student population, which totals around 7,800 students. The university's graduate programs enhance its academic reputation and provide advanced learning opportunities for those seeking to further their education beyond the undergraduate level.

New student growth

The university's efforts to enhance local recruitment at high schools and improve transfer pathways from regional Virginia Community College System (VCCS) institutions have been pivotal to this growth. Effective local targeting has resulted in substantial increases from school districts within a 100-mile radius of the campus. For instance, student numbers from Giles County High School, Radford High School, and Floyd County High School have witnessed remarkable growth rates of 233%, 166%, and 128%, respectively.

Additionally, the Radford Tuition Promise, launched in October 2023, has been instrumental in attracting new students. This initiative covers tuition costs for Virginia residents with family incomes of $100,000 or less, leading to a 40% increase in enrollment by adults over 25. The university's growing reputation and enhanced awareness have also contributed to its appeal, with a 60% increase in student visitors during the 2023-24 academic year.

The overall retention and graduation rate at Radford University has reached 86.6%, a five-year high, reflecting the university's success in not only attracting new students but also retaining them. The university's continuous efforts to improve accessibility, enhance its profile, and provide a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities have contributed to its impressive new student growth.

On-campus residents: ~3,800

Radford University is a public university located in Radford, Virginia, United States. It offers a vibrant student life on its beautiful 211-acre campus.

Around 3,800 students, or nearly half of the student population, call Radford University their home. The university provides a range of housing options for its on-campus residents, including 15 residence halls, apartments for single students, special housing for international students, and accommodations for students with disabilities.

Living on campus offers numerous advantages, such as convenience and a strong sense of community. On-campus residents at Radford University benefit from easy access to the university's facilities, resources, and extracurricular activities. The university boasts a wide array of clubs and organizations, with over 200 options available, ensuring that students with diverse interests can find their niche. Additionally, the university's media outlets, such as The Tartan newspaper and Radio Free Radford, provide opportunities for students to express themselves and stay informed.

For those seeking a more active lifestyle, Radford University offers more than a dozen varsity sports teams, known as the Highlanders, competing in the NCAA Division I Big South Conference. The university's athletic facilities, located along the New River, provide ample space for students to stay fit and cheer on their favourite teams. The Dedmon Center, a recreational and convocation complex, is exclusively available for student athletes and features a range of training amenities, including a jogging track, weight rooms, and team rooms.

With its diverse housing options, vibrant student life, and convenient access to academic and extracurricular resources, it's no wonder that approximately 3,800 students choose to call Radford University their home away from home.

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