Exploring University Of Southern Maine's Student Population

The University of Southern Maine, a public institution founded in 1878, has seen a steady increase in its student population in recent years. As of Fall 2022, the university had a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,616 students, with a gender distribution of 41.2% male and 58.8% female students. The university's acceptance rate for the same year was 85.4%, with a total enrollment yield of 15.9%. The University of Southern Maine offers a diverse range of academic programs and prioritises affordability and community engagement, making it an attractive choice for students seeking higher education.

The University of Southern Maine's total student population in 2022 was 7,583

The University of Southern Maine (USM) is a public institution founded in 1878. It offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs, including fast-track degree options for students with 75 or more college credits. The university's total student population in 2022 was 7,583, with 5,616 undergraduate students and 1,967 graduate students.

USM's total student population of 7,583 in 2022 represented an increase from previous years. The university experienced a surge in enrollment, with a 2% increase in student numbers compared to the previous year, marking the first enrollment increase since 2019. This positive trend was driven by a 5.4% gain in graduate enrollment and a significant 16% rise in the number of undergraduate transfer students.

The university's total student population comprises full-time and part-time students. In 2022, there were 4,075 full-time students and 3,508 part-time students, indicating that 53.7% of the student body was enrolled full-time.

USM's student body is predominantly white (78.7%), with the next largest ethnic groups being Black or African American (5.92%), Hispanic or Latino (4.19%), Two or More Races (2.9%), Asian (2.15%), American Indian or Alaska Native (0.712%), and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders (0.0791%). The gender distribution among the student population is slightly skewed towards women, with 58.8% female students and 41.2% male students.

In 2022, there were 5,616 undergraduate students enrolled

In 2022, the University of Southern Maine (USM) had 5,616 undergraduate students enrolled. This is an increase in enrollment, marking the first surge since 2019. The university received 5,544 undergraduate applications in 2022, with an acceptance rate of 85.4%. Of the accepted applicants, 4,736 students enrolled, with 41.2% male students and 58.8% female students.

USM is a public institution founded in 1878. The campus size is 142 acres, and the university is located in Cumberland County, Maine. The university offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs, including fast-track degree options for students with 75+ college credits. The nursing school at USM is notable for producing the most RNs in Maine. The university is also part of the NCAA III for sports.

The median undergraduate tuition at USM is $8,064, which is significantly lower than the national average for Masters Colleges and Universities. In 2022, 66% of undergraduate students received financial aid through grants, and 34% received aid through loans. The average yearly cost of room and board was $10,338, with additional costs for books and supplies averaging $600.

1,967 students were enrolled in graduate programs in 2022

In 2022, the University of Southern Maine (USM) saw 1,967 students enrolled in graduate programs. This figure represents a significant milestone for the university, as it reflects a 5.4% increase in graduate enrollment compared to the previous year. This positive trend is a testament to the university's commitment to providing accessible, affordable, and excellent higher education.

USM's graduate programs offer a diverse range of academic and professional opportunities for students. With a total of over 300 undergraduate and graduate options, students can mix and match majors, minors, and certificates to design a personalized educational path. The university's graduate programs are particularly notable, with a wide range of specializations available.

One of the key strengths of USM's graduate programs is their focus on accessibility and affordability. The university prioritizes making higher education accessible to all, and this is reflected in their competitive tuition rates. In 2022, the median undergraduate tuition at USM was $8,064, which is significantly lower than the national average for Masters Colleges and Universities, making it an attractive option for students seeking a high-quality education without breaking the bank.

Additionally, USM offers a variety of student support services and resources to ensure the success of its graduate students. The university has cultivated strategic relationships with partners throughout the state and region, including the Maine Community College System, to facilitate transitions and provide a strong support network for its graduate population. This comprehensive approach to graduate education has likely contributed to the increasing enrollment numbers in recent years.

The graduate programs at USM cater to a diverse range of students, with a focus on accessibility and affordability. The university's commitment to providing a well-rounded and supportive educational experience has likely played a significant role in attracting a growing number of graduate students. With a range of specializations, competitive tuition rates, and robust support services, USM is an attractive option for those seeking to advance their education and careers.

The University's student population is 58.8% female

The University of Southern Maine (USM) has a student population that is predominantly female, with 58.8% of its students identifying as women as of Fall 2022. This gender distribution is reflected in the number of degrees awarded to women, which was significantly higher than the number awarded to men in 2022. Out of the 1,918 degrees awarded that year, 65.5% were conferred upon women, while 34.5% were conferred upon men. This trend is also evident in the university's undergraduate enrollment, which stood at 5,616 during the same period, with a gender breakdown of 41.2% male and 58.8% female students.

The female majority at USM is consistent with national trends, where women have been outpacing men in college enrollment and degree attainment over the past few decades. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the overall gender distribution across all colleges and universities in the US showed a similar pattern, with 57% of students enrolled being female and 43% male during the 2019-2020 academic year.

Several factors contribute to the higher representation of women in higher education. One factor is the increasing emphasis on education among young women, who recognize the value of a college degree in pursuing their career aspirations. Additionally, women tend to excel in academic settings and are more likely to view higher education as a pathway to personal growth and expanded opportunities.

The gender dynamics at USM are also influenced by the university's commitment to accessibility and community engagement. President Jacqueline Edmondson attributed the university's enrollment growth to its combination of "academic excellence with an incredibly affordable price, meaningful community engagements, and strong employer connections." This approach has particularly resonated with female students, who constitute a significant proportion of USM's student body.

USM's female-dominated student population has implications for the university's campus culture, academic programs, and support services. The university recognizes the diverse needs and interests of its female students and strives to create an inclusive environment that fosters their academic success and personal development.

The University has seen an increase in enrolment since 2019

The University of Southern Maine has seen a surge in enrolment since 2019, with a 2% increase in student numbers from the previous year. This positive trend is expected to continue as students return for the fall semester, marking a significant turning point for the university.

The University attributes this success to its commitment to providing an excellent education at an affordable price, fostering meaningful community engagement, and prioritising student success through dedicated support services. The University's strategic investments in academic programmes and relationships with partners, such as the Maine Community College System, have also played a pivotal role in attracting new students.

The enrolment increase is evident across various student groups. Notably, there has been a 15% increase in Maine high school students choosing to attend the University, reflecting the strong reputation the University has built within the local community. The University has also experienced a substantial 36% increase in transfer students from the Maine Community College System, demonstrating the appeal of the University's academic offerings and its ability to facilitate smooth transitions for transfer students.

The University's Southern Maine Pathways Program, which streamlines the transition from SMCC to USM, is one such initiative that has contributed to this positive enrolment trend. Additionally, the University's adult student success programs have received significant support from the University of Maine System, further enhancing the University's ability to cater to a diverse range of students.

The University of Southern Maine's enrolment growth is a testament to its dedication to student success and its ability to adapt to the needs of its student body. With a combination of academic excellence, affordability, and strong community engagement, the University has fostered a sense of belonging that resonates with prospective students, driving its upward trajectory in enrolment numbers since 2019.

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