In-Person Learning At Liberty University: Attendance Numbers Revealed

Liberty University, a private conservative evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia, has a large student body with a total enrollment that exceeds 140,000 students, including over 16,000 on-campus students and 124,000 online students.

In 2023, Liberty University had over 16,000 in-person students

The university's in-person student population has been steadily increasing over the years, with 13,685 residential students in Fall 2014, and 15,800 on-campus students in Fall 2022. Liberty University's ability to attract a large number of students can be attributed to its affordable tuition fees, which are among the lowest in the United States. Additionally, the university's commitment to its biblical foundation and mission has reassured parents, alumni, and donors, contributing to its growing enrollment.

The university's residential population is diverse, with students from all 50 states and over 77 countries, as of Fall 2024. The student body is predominantly female, with 52% of residential students being women. The university offers a wide range of programs, with over 700 unique programs of study, including both residential and online options. Liberty University's campus size is also impressive, spanning over 7,000 acres near the Blue Ridge Mountains in Lynchburg, Virginia.

The university's growth has led to the expansion of its infrastructure and facilities. For example, the opening of the new high-rise Commons IV residence hall has allowed more students to live on campus, with 8,452 residential students in Fall 2024. Liberty University continues to diversify its degree programs, utilize innovative technologies, and invest in campus infrastructure to accommodate its growing student population.

The university has over 700 unique programs of study

Liberty University offers over 700 unique programs of study, including a diverse range of courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The university's academic programs are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and practical skills for their future careers.

At the undergraduate level, Liberty University offers a wide range of programs, including:

• Bachelor's degrees: With majors in various fields such as business, arts and sciences, communication, engineering, health sciences, and more.
• Associate degrees: Providing a solid foundation for further studies or career development.

The graduate programs at Liberty University are equally comprehensive. The university offers multiple options for students seeking to advance their knowledge and skills:

• Master's degrees: Available in numerous specializations, including business administration, education, health sciences, and more.
• Postgraduate degrees: Allowing students to further specialize and enhance their expertise.
• Doctoral degrees: Equipping students with the highest level of academic achievement and recognition in their chosen fields.

In addition to traditional residential programs, Liberty University also offers a significant number of online programs. This flexibility allows students to pursue their academic goals without the constraints of geographical boundaries. The online programs cover a wide range of fields, including business, education, health sciences, and more.

The variety of programs offered by Liberty University ensures that students can find the right fit for their interests and career aspirations. With such a diverse range of options, students can tailor their educational journey to match their unique goals and passions.

Furthermore, Liberty University is committed to providing a well-rounded education that extends beyond the classroom. The university encourages hands-on learning and offers advanced academic facilities, such as the Jerry Falwell Library, to enhance the student experience. The combination of academic expertise and real-world experience provided by the university's professors empowers students to succeed in their studies and future endeavours.

There are 15 colleges and schools

Liberty University is made up of 15 colleges and schools, including a law school and a medical school. The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest, with eight departments offering PhDs, master's, bachelor's, and associate degrees. The College teaches Young Earth creationism, a pseudoscience, in its "creationist studies" classes.

The Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM) opened in 2014 with a $12 million matching grant from the Virginia Tobacco Commission. The college received initial accreditation from the American Osteopathic Association Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation in 2018 and launched its first residency program that same year, with a focus on neuromusculoskeletal treatment.

The Helms School of Government offers degrees in criminal justice, government and public administration, international relations, pre-law, public policy, strategic intelligence, and fire administration at both bachelor's and master's degree levels. The school is named after former US senator Jesse Helms, a friend of the Falwell family.

The Rawlings School of Divinity, founded in 1973, is the largest divinity school in the world by number of students enrolled in degree programs. It offers 44 bachelor's degrees, 44 master's degrees, and 14 doctorate degrees, with many programs available on-campus only and others online. The school includes The Center for Apologetics and Cultural Engagement, which aims to defend the Christian faith in light of "trending issues like racism, sexuality, and morality in today's society."

In addition to these colleges, Liberty University offers a wide range of programs across various fields, from certificate to doctoral level, with a strong focus on providing a Christian education and upholding biblical values.

52% of residential students live on campus

Liberty University, a private conservative evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers a mix of residential and online programs to its students. The university has seen significant growth in recent years, with a total enrollment that exceeds 140,000 students, including over 16,000 on-campus students and over 124,000 online students.

When it comes to residential students, 52% live on campus. This translates to over 8,000 students, a record number for the university. The availability of on-campus housing is an important factor in the overall student experience, and Liberty University has invested in new and upgraded facilities to accommodate its growing residential population.

The benefits of living on campus are numerous. Students who live on campus have easier access to academic resources, such as libraries and study spaces, as well as support services like tutoring or counselling. They also tend to be more involved in campus life, whether it's joining clubs or organizations, participating in athletic events, or simply socializing with peers. This sense of community and connection to the university can positively impact their academic performance and overall well-being.

In addition, living on campus offers convenience and a sense of security. Residential students don't have to worry about commuting long distances or dealing with traffic. They can roll out of bed and be in class in minutes, which is especially advantageous during harsh weather conditions. The university's residence halls also provide a built-in support system, as resident assistants and peers are often the first to notice if a student is struggling and can offer help or direct them to the right resources.

However, it's important to note that not all residential students choose to live on campus. 48% of these students commute to the university, which indicates that they prefer the flexibility and independence of living off-campus. Some students may have financial considerations or family obligations that make living at home or in the surrounding area a more feasible option. Nonetheless, Liberty University strives to create an inclusive environment for all its students, whether they live on campus or commute, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and support they need to succeed in their academic pursuits.

The student body represents all 50 US states

Liberty University's student body is diverse, with students from all 50 US states and Washington, D.C. The university's reach extends beyond the nation's capital, attracting students from over 100 countries worldwide. This diverse student population is a testament to the university's broad appeal and its ability to cater to a wide range of educational needs and backgrounds.

The university's on-campus population is particularly notable for its representation of students from across the United States. In the 2023-24 academic year, Liberty University surpassed a significant milestone, with over 16,000 students taking classes on campus, marking its first fall semester with such high numbers. This diverse group of students chooses to live and learn together, creating a vibrant and inclusive community.

The university's ability to attract students from all corners of the country is a testament to its reputation and the quality of its academic programs. With over 700 unique programs of study, Liberty University offers a wide range of educational opportunities that cater to various interests and career aspirations. Whether students are interested in residential or online programs, Liberty University provides a diverse and enriching educational experience.

The student body's diversity extends beyond geographical representation, as Liberty University welcomes students from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The university is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that embraces and celebrates this diversity. This commitment is reflected in the student population, which, as of 2021, comprised 74% White, 5% Latino, 4% Black, 3% two or more races, 2% Asian or Pacific Islander, less than 1% Native American, and 7% identifying as "other."

The university's dedication to providing a well-rounded education that goes beyond the classroom is also worth noting. Liberty University encourages its students to engage in extracurricular activities and community service. For example, Liberty University students volunteered an impressive total of more than 450,000 hours in a year, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

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