Acadia University’s student enrolment is growing at a time when the number of high school graduates in Nova Scotia is decreasing. Today, the full time undergraduate population at Acadia stands at 3,600, up 3.5 per cent over last year. Full time graduate students number 219, up 6.7 per cent over the same period. Overall, Acadia’s full time student population is up 3.7 per cent compared to a 0.6 per cent increase for Nova Scotia as a whole. Since 2008, Acadia’s full time student population has grown almost 26 per cent.

The annual enrolment count is compiled by the Atlantic Association of Universities (AAU) survey that summarizes changes in the student populations across the region effective October 1.

“Our 2013-14 enrolment performance provides us with an opportunity to be proud of what we have achieved both year-over-year and over the past five years,” said Ray Ivany, Acadia President and Vice-Chancellor. “Acadia is a national university but one with deep roots in the Annapolis Valley and I am pleased that we have increased both our Nova Scotia enrolment as well from the rest of Canada. Acadia is now very close to the full time student population that our campus infrastructure and resources can support,” said Ivany. ”In the future, we expect little year-over-year change in our student populations, with the exception of a broader and more diversified international cohort.”

On Friday, October 18, Acadia will host an Open House for prospective students and their families. On October 19-21, Acadia will host several faculty and students from Bishop’s, Mount Allison, and St. FX who will be here to participate in the U4 League Undergraduate Research Symposium being led by Dr. Tom Herman. As well, the University is holding its annual Homecoming throughout the weekend.

-30-