For the spring 2009 semester, Chattanooga State has posted a significant enrollment increase.  The total number of students (headcount) enrolled in academic credit courses is 8,318, an increase of 13% compared to spring 2008 figures.  The number of students who are full‐time (taking at least 15 credit hours) is 5,129, indicating a 15% increase when considered next to the 2008 figures for the same period.

The Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) is the governing body for Chattanooga State as well as the other twelve state community colleges.  Each semester TBR requires that colleges report both a total headcount and a total number of full‐time students.  Full‐time students are also known as FTEs or full‐time equivalents.  The FTE measurement is the value used by TBR to determine the amount of funding each college will receive during an academic year.

Notably, enrollment in non‐credit technical programs has also climbed.  Programs focusing on technical certification and specialized training have experienced an enrollment increase of 23%.  Two‐hundred fifty‐nine more students registered for technical programs in spring 2009 than in spring 2008.  (Please reference the table below.)

According to Jeff Olingy, vice president for economic and community development, the increase in enrollment was expected.  “An unstable, uncertain economic climate will push individuals towards colleges like Chattanooga State,” states Olingy.  “Our enrollment growth suggests that many realize that enhancing their skills through education and/or professional training is a solution, not a burden.”

Olingy stressed Chattanooga State’s affordable tuition and flexible scheduling.  He notes that “a Chattanooga State education is a great value, especially during these economic challenges.”  He continues by highlighting that many academic classes, technical courses, and training sessions are offered in the evenings and on the weekends to accommodate busy schedules.

For information about Chattanooga State and its educational programs, call the Chattanooga State information hotline at 423.697.4404 or toll free at 1.866.547.3733 or visit the college’s Web site at www.chattanoogastate.edu.

Chattanooga State is a comprehensive, regionally accredited community college, operated under the policies and guidelines of the Tennessee Board of Regents College System.  Founded in 1965 and serving a six-county area in Southeast Tennessee, Chattanooga State offers a wide array of programs and services.