WEST PLAINS, Mo. – A total of 1,993 students are enrolled this fall at Missouri State University-West Plains, according to official enrollment statistics for the 2015 fall semester.

This figure is 9 percent less than last year’s overall tally of 2,193 students at the close of business on the university’s official census day – the 20th day of the semester, university officials said.

“We have heard that enrollment is down at most two-year colleges across the state,” Missouri State-West Plains Chancellor Drew Bennett said.  “Much of the decline can be attributed to the decrease in high school enrollment numbers statewide and a low unemployment rate in Missouri.”

Missouri State-West Plains’ final overall enrollment figure includes students taking classes on the university’s campuses in West Plains and Mountain Grove, as well as online, through dual credit/dual enrollment programs at area high schools, through the SEMO reverse transfer program, and through the Viticulture and Enology Science and Technology Alliance (VESTA) of which Missouri State-West Plains is a member.

“We will continue working to develop new programs to meet the needs of nontraditional students, as well as expand the offerings for traditional students,” Bennett said.  “Missouri State-West Plains remains an excellent option for anyone wanting to take advantage of a quality education with a full college experience at a low cost.”

In addition to the 1,993 students enrolled in Missouri State-West Plains courses this fall, 126 students are enrolled in the bachelor’s and master’s level courses offered at the West Plains campus through Missouri State-Springfield’s Outreach office. When Outreach’s figures are added to those for Missouri State-West Plains, a total of 2,119 students are being served by Missouri State-West Plains.