McHenry County College Sees Enrollment Increase

While statewide enrollment at community college decreased by 2.5 percent in 2013, McHenry County College saw a 2.2 percent increase in this year's enrollment, according to a McHenry County College press release. 

The enrollment numbers were recently released as part of a Spring 2013 enrollment report from the Illinois Community College Board. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, between 2000 and 2010, nationwide enrollment at two-year institutions increased from 5.9 to 7.7 million students and is expected to reach 8.8 million students by 2021.

Here is a look at how other area community college fared for spring enrollment: 

• Enrollment decreased by 1.5 percent at Harper College
• Decreased by 2.3 percent at Elgin Community College
• Decreased by 3.9 percent at Rock Valley College 
• Increased by 1.3 percent at College of Lake County

“I believe our continuing increases at MCC are because we are offering new programs that meet the needs of McHenry County residents,” said MCC President Vicky Smith. “In addition, our student success initiatives are influencing our student retention and persistence rates.”

MCC believes new degree programs, such as registered nursing, robotics, culinary management and graphic arts, have contributed to an increase in enrollment. Students are also recognizing the financial value of starting college locally, Smith said.

"They can take the introductory classes they need at their local community college and then transfer to a four-year school as a junior and graduate with a bachelor’s degree – at a fraction of the cost," according to the press release.