Lana Oconnell
Utah Valley University (UVU) is a public university in Orem, Utah, with an enrollment of over 44,000 students as of Fall 2023, making it the largest university by enrollment in Utah and one of the largest in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States. The university has seen steady growth in student numbers, with a record 44,653 students registering for the 2023 Fall semester, a 3.61% increase from the previous year. This follows UVU's largest graduating class in May 2023, with 8,517 students receiving a total of 9,629 degrees and certificates.
What You'll Learn
Utah Valley University's student population has been increasing year-on-year
Utah Valley University (UVU) has seen consistent growth in its student population in recent years, solidifying its position as the largest university in Utah by enrolment. With a student body of over 44,000 as of Fall 2023, UVU has experienced a year-on-year increase in enrolment, with a 4.45% rise in 2022 and a further 3.61% in 2023. This growth follows a period of significant expansion when the university was still a community college, increasing by approximately 3,000 students annually.
UVU's appeal can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, as the largest public university in Utah, it offers a unique dual-mission model that combines the academic rigour of a teaching university with the vocational focus of a community college. This approach enhances accessibility and affordability, attracting students from diverse backgrounds. The university's commitment to small class sizes and low tuition fees further contributes to its popularity.
The university's strong enrolment numbers are also a result of its ability to retain existing students. UVU fosters a supportive environment for its students, many of whom work more than 31 hours a week, have families, or are the first in their families to pursue higher education. The university accommodates their needs through flexible learning options, with a combination of in-person, online, and hybrid classes.
Additionally, UVU has seen an increase in the number of students from underrepresented communities, particularly Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino students. This growth aligns with the university's commitment to providing accessible and equitable educational opportunities for all.
The growth in student numbers at UVU has resulted in a vibrant and diverse campus community. The student body represents 42 countries, with a significant proportion of non-traditional students aged 25 and older. The university's focus on STEM education, with one-third of students pursuing degrees in these fields, also contributes to its appeal. As UVU continues to expand and enhance its offerings, it is well-positioned to maintain its strong enrolment numbers and provide a transformative educational experience for its students.
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The university has a high percentage of first-generation students
Utah Valley University (UVU) is the largest public university in Utah. It welcomed 43,099 students for its 2022 fall semester, with a record 44,653 students registering for the 2023 fall semester. The university's student population further increased by 4.83% for the 2024 fall semester, with a total of 46,809 students.
UVU has a high percentage of first-generation students, with 38% of its student body being the first in their families to pursue a college education. This percentage increased to 41% in 2024, with a surge of 18.54% in first-generation students, making up almost half of the student population. This is a testament to the university's commitment to providing accessible and equitable educational opportunities.
UVU's unique dual-mission model combines the academic rigour of a first-rate teaching university with the vocational programs of a community college. This approach, along with low tuition fees, small class sizes, and flexible learning options, makes higher education more attainable for first-generation students. The university's partnerships with local school districts also allow students to earn degrees while still in high school, reducing the overall cost of their college education.
The high percentage of first-generation students at UVU contributes to a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university represents students from 42 countries, with a significant number of students from underrepresented communities. This diversity enriches the educational experience and fosters a supportive environment where first-generation students can thrive and succeed in their academic pursuits.
UVU's focus on accessibility and affordability has had a positive impact on the lives of first-generation students, empowering them to pursue their educational goals and become the first in their families to attend college. The university's commitment to keeping tuition low and providing a range of learning options ensures that a college education is within reach for a wider range of students, creating a pathway for personal growth and career success.
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There is a notable number of non-traditional students
Utah Valley University (UVU) is the largest public university in the state of Utah. It has a student population of over 44,000 and is committed to welcoming students from all backgrounds. Notably, UVU has a significant number of non-traditional students, with 28% of its student body aged 25 or older. This is a consistent figure that has been maintained over the years, with 29% of students aged 25 or older in 2022.
UVU's non-traditional students are defined as those aged 25 and above. This demographic makes up a significant portion of the university's diverse student population. The university's commitment to accessibility and flexibility in education has likely contributed to this notable presence of non-traditional students. UVU offers a range of learning options, including face-to-face, online, and hybrid formats, catering to the varying needs of its diverse student body.
The university's president, Astrid S. Tuminez, has acknowledged the unique challenges faced by UVU students, many of whom balance careers, school, and family. In her words, "Supporting their need for flexibility through the use of technology enhances student success." This emphasis on flexibility and accessibility has likely played a role in attracting and retaining non-traditional students.
The strong enrollment and retention of non-traditional students at UVU can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the university's low tuition fees and commitment to keeping costs affordable make it an attractive option for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Additionally, the university's range of learning formats and its partnerships with local school districts allowing for concurrent enrollment provide flexibility for students with other commitments.
In conclusion, UVU's notable number of non-traditional students is a testament to the university's success in creating an accessible and flexible learning environment. By offering a variety of learning options and maintaining low tuition fees, UVU has attracted and retained a significant number of students aged 25 and older, contributing to its diverse and inclusive campus community.
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Utah Valley University has a diverse student body
Utah Valley University (UVU) has a large and diverse student body. As of Fall 2023, the university had an enrollment of over 44,000 students, making it the largest university by enrollment in Utah and one of the largest in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States. UVU's student body is diverse in terms of age, background, and life experiences. About 28% of students are non-traditional, meaning they are 25 years or older, and 14% of students support at least one child while attending the university. Additionally, 37% of students are first-generation, meaning they are the first in their families to pursue a college education.
The student body at UVU also has a relatively even gender split, with 50.4% of students identifying as female and 49.6% identifying as male. The university has students from a range of racial and ethnic backgrounds, with 19% of students identifying as people of color. While the majority of students come from Utah, UVU also attracts students from other states and countries. In 2016, UVU students represented all 50 US states, the District of Columbia, and 74 countries. As of Fall 2023, students from 42 countries were represented in the student body.
UVU's diverse student body is reflected in its range of academic programs and areas of study. The university offers master's, bachelor's, associate degrees, and certificates, with a strong focus on engaged learning and faculty-mentored research. One-third of UVU's students are pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, while other popular areas of study include business, management, psychology, education, and art and design. The university's commitment to accessibility and affordability makes it an attractive option for students from a wide range of backgrounds and contributes to its diverse student population.
The diversity of UVU's student body extends beyond demographics and academics, as the university also fosters a campus community that welcomes everyone. This inclusive environment is reflected in the variety of extracurricular activities and student organizations available on campus. For example, UVU is home to one of the largest public collegiate ballroom dance programs in the United States, with over 130 members, as well as ten main musical groups and a vibrant theatre program. The university's athletic teams, known as the Utah Valley Wolverines, compete in a range of intercollegiate sports, including swimming, basketball, baseball, and wrestling. With such a diverse student body, UVU offers a rich and dynamic campus experience that enhances the educational journey of its students.
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The university offers a range of degree programmes
Utah Valley University (UVU) is the largest public university in Utah, combining the rigour of a first-rate teaching university with the openness of a community college. The university offers a range of degree programmes to its over 40,000 students, with one-third pursuing degrees in STEM fields.
UVU's undergraduate degree programmes include majors such as Business Management, Computer Science, Psychology, Biology, Elementary Education, and Art and Design. The university also offers minors in various fields, including African American Studies, Animation Studies, Anthropology, and Applied Mathematics.
In addition to its undergraduate offerings, UVU provides a variety of graduate degree programmes. Master's degrees are available in areas such as Architecture, Business Administration, Entertainment Arts and Engineering, Healthcare Administration, and Electrical and Computer Engineering. Doctoral programmes are also offered, including a Doctor of Philosophy in areas like Education, Leadership, and Biomedical Engineering.
UVU's dual-mission model ensures that students from diverse backgrounds have access to a rigorous and affordable education. The university's commitment to small class sizes and low tuition makes it a popular choice for students seeking a high-quality education in Utah.
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Frequently asked questions
As of Fall 2023, Utah Valley University has an enrollment of over 44,000 students.
In Fall 2022, 43,099 students were enrolled at Utah Valley University.
The enrollment at Utah Valley University has increased over the years. In Fall 2022, the university welcomed 43,099 students, and in Fall 2023, the enrollment reached a record 44,653 students, representing a 3.61% increase.
Yes, Utah Valley University is the largest university by enrollment in the state of Utah.
