September 4, 2024
East Texas Baptist University announces a total enrollment of 1,813 undergraduate and graduate students for the Fall 2024 semester. This achievement marks the second-highest enrollment in the University's history, reflecting ETBU's ongoing commitment to providing a Christ-centered education that equips students to live out their purpose for the glory of God.
"We are grateful for the remarkable work done by our faculty, staff, and administration in achieving this milestone," ETBU President Blair Blackburn said. "We have fervently prayed for the students whom God has led to our campus, and we rejoice in welcoming them to their 'Home on the Hill.' Our mission to integrate faith into every aspect of the student experience continues to guide us as we teach and reach each of these students with learning grounded in God's truths."
ETBU welcomed 1,634 undergraduate students, the second-highest undergraduate enrollment in ETBU's history, and 179 graduate students, a 3% increase over last fall and the second-highest graduate enrollment on record.
"We recognize the challenges that have impacted our enrollment, including the delayed rollout of the new FAFSA system and the broader economic pressures faced by our students and their families," Blackburn noted. "Despite these hurdles, our Financial Aid staff worked diligently to support our students, and our retention efforts have yielded strong results, including record retention of last year's freshman cohort at 71%."
The University also reports a transfer cohort retention rate of 70%, consistent with last year, and an increase in new transfer, full-time transfer cohort enrollment, which is up 32% over Fall 2023. These successes are a testament to the vibrant campus life and close-knit atmosphere students enjoy during their time on the Hill.
The University is excited to continue serving its students and preparing them to become Christian servant leaders through an array of opportunities including campus ministries and Bible studies, mission opportunities, weekly chapel services, student organizations, academic honor societies, intramurals, club sports, and championship NCAA Division III athletics.
"Through robust spiritual and academic programs, we’re preparing a generation to serve God and others with excellence," ETBU Vice President for Enrollment Jeremy Johnston said. "Whether it’s in the classroom, on the mission field, or on the athletic field. We’re thrilled to see the Tiger Family continue to grow and thrive in their faith and service."