University Student Population In The Us: How Many?

The number of university students in the US is a dynamic figure, influenced by various factors such as demographic changes, economic trends, and the appeal of higher education. As of fall 2021, the total undergraduate enrollment in degree-granting postsecondary institutions was approximately 15.4 million students, a 3% decrease from the previous year and a continuation of the downward trend observed before the COVID-19 pandemic. This decline is part of a longer-term pattern, as undergraduate enrollment was 15% lower in 2021 than in 2010, with 42% of this decline occurring during the pandemic.

However, it's important to note that undergraduate enrollment is projected to increase by 9% between 2021 and 2031, indicating a potential shift in preferences and priorities. This projected increase may be influenced by factors such as improved access to education, demographic changes, and the recognition of the value of higher education.

The US higher education landscape is diverse, with a range of institutions, including community colleges, prestigious research universities, and private colleges, catering to a wide array of student needs and aspirations.

Undergraduate vs postgraduate enrolment

Undergraduate Enrolment

Undergraduate enrolment refers to students enrolled in a university who are pursuing a bachelor's degree or similar certification. Undergraduate programs typically last four years, and students enrolled are often recent high school graduates, although adults can also enrol at a later stage in their lives. The number of undergraduate students in the US was approximately 15.397 million in fall 2022, a 7% decline from 2019. The average undergraduate enrolment across 1,190 colleges that reported data to U.S. News was about 6,400. However, some universities have much higher enrolment numbers, such as Arizona State University, which enrolled nearly 65,200 undergraduates in the fall of 2023.

Postgraduate Enrolment

Postgraduate enrolment, on the other hand, refers to students who have completed a bachelor's degree and are pursuing a master's, doctoral, or similar degree. Postgraduates are usually professionals with work experience looking to advance their careers. Postgraduate programs typically last two years, although some universities offer accelerated programs. In terms of enrolment, 17.13% of all postsecondary students in the US are in graduate programs. There has been an increasing trend in international enrolment in US graduate programs. In Fall 2022, international students accounted for 35% of first-time graduate students, with a significant jump in international applications in recent years.

Differences in Requirements, Duration, and Costs

Undergraduate and postgraduate programs have distinct entry and completion requirements, program durations, and costs. Undergraduate programs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with standardised test scores such as the SAT or ACT. Postgraduate programs, on the other hand, require a bachelor's degree or equivalent, and some programs may also require work experience. Postgraduate programs tend to be more specialised and focused on research, which can lead to higher costs. Undergraduate degrees help build a foundation of skills and knowledge, while postgraduate degrees allow for further specialisation and advancement in specific fields.

Public vs private institutions

Funding

The main difference between public and private universities in the US is their funding. Public universities are government-funded, while private universities rely on tuition fees, alumni donations, and endowments. This funding difference translates to variations in tuition fees, with public universities offering lower rates, especially to students from the same state. Private universities, on the other hand, charge higher fees but may offer generous financial aid packages.

Size

Public universities tend to be larger, with bigger campuses and a higher number of students. This is due to their state funding, which may be contingent on accepting a certain percentage of in-state students. Private universities, with more selective funding sources, are generally smaller, resulting in fewer students and smaller class sizes.

Campus Experience

The distinct funding models of public and private universities also shape their campus experiences. The larger size of public universities contributes to a greater number of student clubs, extracurricular activities, and a more vibrant social scene. Private universities, though possibly having a smaller scale campus life, offer a tighter-knit community for students.

Program Offerings

Public universities, with their larger student bodies, offer a wider array of degree programs. This variety suits students who are undecided about their major or those seeking a specific program. Private universities, particularly liberal arts colleges, offer fewer academic majors, but this specialization can benefit students who know their field of interest.

Research Opportunities

Public universities, backed by government funding, often have extensive research facilities and labs, providing more opportunities for students interested in academic research. While smaller private colleges may have limited resources in this area, private research universities like Johns Hopkins and Cornell invest heavily in research and development.

Learning Environment

The learning environment differs between public and private institutions. Public colleges suit independent learners, as students are generally responsible for seeking extra help from professors. Private colleges, with smaller campuses and classes, allow for closer relationships with academic advisors and professors, offering more direct guidance to students.

Athletics and Extracurriculars

Public colleges typically host larger athletic programs and offer a broader selection of extracurricular activities due to their larger student populations. However, several prominent private colleges, such as Baylor and Harvard, also have notable Division I athletic teams.

Gender breakdown

However, it is important to acknowledge that gender equity is a complex issue. While female students are now more represented in higher education, support and resources for male students are also crucial to ensure equal opportunities for all. The data emphasizes the need to foster an inclusive learning environment that addresses the specific needs of both male and female students.

Furthermore, the gender breakdown of the student population has implications for academia, workforce development, and societal progress. With more women pursuing higher education, we can expect to see a greater female presence in various industries and sectors, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

The gender breakdown of the student population in the US is a dynamic aspect, and it will be interesting to monitor how it evolves in the coming years, especially with the recent declines in overall college enrollment rates.

Racial and ethnic makeup

The racial and ethnic makeup of university students in the US has become less white and more Hispanic over the years. In 2011, more than 60% of the 20.6 million college students in the US were white. By 2020, the number of college students had fallen to 17.8 million, and the share of white students had dropped by almost 9 percentage points to 52%. During the same period, the share of Hispanic students grew from 14% to 21%, and the share of Black students remained constant at just under 14%. Asian students increased from 5% to 7% of the college population.

In 2023, white students made up 41% of the student population, down from 45% in 2019. Hispanic and Latino/a students were the second-largest group, at 18% of the total undergraduate population. Black students made up 11% of the student population, Asian students 6%, and Native American students less than 1%.

In 2016, of the 16.3 million undergraduate students, about 9.1 million were White, 3.2 million were Hispanic, 2.2 million were Black, 1.1 million were Asian, 596,000 were of Two or more races, 129,000 were American Indian/Alaska Native, and 47,000 were Pacific Islander.

In 2022, undergraduate enrollment for both white and Black students fell for the fifth straight year, while the enrollment of Hispanic and Asian students at public two-year colleges improved. However, their numbers were below pre-pandemic levels.

In 2008, 73% of the 18.4 million US college students attended public institutions, 19% attended private not-for-profit institutions, and 8% attended private for-profit institutions. There were variations by race and ethnicity. About 81% of Hispanics and 79% of American Indians/Alaska Natives attended public institutions, higher than the percentages for Whites (73%), Blacks (68%), and Asians/Pacific Islanders (75%).

Full-time vs part-time enrolment

Deciding between full-time and part-time enrolment is a significant decision that can influence a student's college experience. Here is a detailed comparison of the two options:

Full-Time Enrolment

Full-time enrolment typically requires students to take on a heavier course load, with undergraduates taking a minimum of 12 credits or about four classes per semester. Graduate students usually need a minimum of nine credits for full-time status. Full-time students often have the goal of completing their studies sooner and graduating within the standard four-year timeframe. This path may be suitable for those with the availability and desire to devote a significant portion of their week to their studies.

Full-time students may experience a more immersive educational experience, with their primary focus being on their coursework. This dedication can lead to higher retention rates and better chances of graduating on time. Additionally, full-time students may have more opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, athletics, and hobbies due to their increased time on campus.

When it comes to finances, full-time students often face higher upfront tuition fees, as they usually pay a semester-based or annual rate. However, this can be advantageous if they take more than 12 credits, as many schools offer a flat rate for 12-18 credits. Full-time students are also often eligible for more financial aid opportunities, including grants, scholarships, and loans. For example, in 2019-2020, full-time undergraduates received an average of $14,940 in financial aid.

Part-Time Enrolment

Part-time enrolment is designed for students who take fewer than 12 credit hours per semester, usually consisting of three or fewer courses. This option is ideal for those with work and family commitments, as it allows them to balance their studies with other responsibilities. Part-time students often have more flexible schedules, making it easier to find employment and manage their time.

Part-time students typically pay per credit, which can result in lower tuition fees each semester. However, the total cost of their degree may be higher in the long run, as they are enrolled for a longer period. Part-time students may have to juggle the demands of their coursework with their other commitments and may have less time for extracurricular activities.

Part-time enrolment can be a more affordable option, especially for those paying out of pocket or taking out loans. While there may be fewer scholarship opportunities, part-time students can still access financial aid and scholarships based on merit or need. Additionally, some employers may be willing to contribute to their employees' tuition costs.

Key Considerations

When deciding between full-time and part-time enrolment, students should consider their personal, financial, and lifestyle needs. Full-time enrolment can provide a more immersive educational experience and faster path to graduation, while part-time enrolment offers greater flexibility and the ability to balance work and family commitments.

It is also important to note that the availability of assistance programs, such as financial aid, health insurance, and scholarships, may depend on full-time enrolment. Part-time students should carefully review the requirements of these programs to ensure they meet the necessary credit thresholds to be eligible.

Ultimately, the decision between full-time and part-time enrolment is a personal one, and students should weigh the benefits and challenges of each option based on their unique circumstances.

Frequently asked questions