Louisiana Tech welcomed its third straight record-breaking freshman class and set a new record for its highest undergraduate and main campus enrollment in school history. It is also its most academically prepared freshman class ever, with the number of students with an ACT score of 30 or higher up 22%. University president Jim Henderson says the school has not given up on rigor.
“We want to grow with the right types of students so that we protect that Louisiana Tech experience. The culture of this institution, the tradition of this institution stands out; and that means we recruit the right students that are prepared to excel in a world of rigor and practical application,” Henderson explained.
Construction engineering technology had a 25% year-over-year increase in enrollment, the most of any program. The other fastest-growing programs are nursing, kinesiology, electrical engineering, and accounting. Henderson says the growth reflects a commitment to research that can be practically applied to economic growth.
“I think it speaks volumes about when the academic offerings this university has; they’re suddenly aligned with both the immediate demands and the workforce economy. And then, of course, the future demands,” Henderson noted.
LA Tech also has the highest retention rate of any school in the University of Louisiana System. Nearly 90% of the school’s enrollment is made up of Louisiana residents, but Henderson says students are not just choosing Louisiana Tech over other in-state schools.
“They’re choosing against flagship schools in multiple states, and those that choose us stay with us, they excel after graduation as shown by mid-career salaries and they stay loyal to this institution. It’s certainly a unique higher-ed experience,” Henderson said.
