For the third year in a row, more students are choosing to pursue degrees at Washington State University Tri-Cities. The campus achieved an overall headcount increase of 8.1%, rising from 1,489 students last fall to 1,609 this year.

First-year enrollment grew by 11.1%, marking the third consecutive year of double-digit growth in that group. First-time graduate students more than doubled, and total undergraduate enrollment increased 8.1% compared with last fall.

“An 8.1% increase in overall enrollment and another record-breaking number of first-year students indicates that students and families understand the benefits of a WSU Tri-Cities education,” said Sandra Haynes, chancellor of WSU Tri-Cities. “We are proud to be a campus where students can pursue excellent academic programs in a supportive, close-knit community.”

Overall enrollment across the WSU system remained nearly flat year over year, declining less than 1% from 25,685 students in fall 2024 to 25,477 this fall.

Jamie Owens, campus director of admissions, attributed the growth in part to her team’s efforts to strengthen outreach to local high schools and transfer students by providing accessible information.

“I am once again thrilled to welcome our largest first-year student class ever. Achieving a third consecutive year of double-digit growth is a testament to the incredible dedication of our admission counselors. They work hard to deliver a personalized experience, helping students realize the opportunities and support WSU Tri-Cities has to offer.

“These results are achieved by spending time in high schools, welcoming prospective students at on-campus events, and sending countless emails, text messages and phone calls. We genuinely care that our students and their families feel confident in their college decision and work to ensure they understand how to maximize financial aid,” Owens said.

According to Owens, initiatives such as application workshops and “Instant Decision Days” at regional high schools and community colleges helped boost the number of first-year students.

Affordability, a small-campus environment, a low student-to-faculty ratio, and the ability to leverage WSU partnerships locally, nationally and internationally also make WSU Tri-Cities an attractive option for area students. Many pair their coursework with internships and other real-world experiences, giving them opportunities to graduate career-ready.

“Our enrollment growth not only strengthens WSU Tri-Cities, but contributes to the vitality of the Tri-Cities region by preparing the next generation of professionals and leaders,” Haynes said.

Kate McAteer, vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, noted that an accompanying upward trend in the first-time, first-year retention rate reflects the confidence students have in campus supports, both inside and outside the classroom.

“Our approach to ensuring all campus employees see themselves as educators is critical to student success,” McAteer said. “As more students choose our campus, we are excited to expand opportunities that prepare them to lead and succeed in the years ahead.”