Alabama community colleges report record enrollment

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WIAT ) — The Alabama Community College System is reporting some of the highest enrollment in over a decade.

In a new report, over 170,000 residents enrolled in academic courses, adult education and workforce training opportunities between August 2023 and July 2024, marking the largest participation.

Of the 170,000, Nearly 123,000 people are enrolled in academic programs with the rest taking part in workforce credentials.

“The slogan of the Alabama Community College System is that we make life better, and the challenge to do so successfully is evident in the support of Alabama’s leaders and in the number of Alabama residents achieving their goals through the colleges’ training,” Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System Jimmy H. Baker said in a statement.

According to the ACSS, future initiatives to continue growing enrollment include expanding online learning opportunities, partnerships with industry leaders, as well as the “introduction of new programs in high-demand fields such as healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing.”

“Alabama’s future is bright, and our community colleges are at the heart of it,” ACSS Vice Chancellor for Student Success Neil Scott said in a statement. “As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on our mission to empower students, strengthen communities, and drive economic prosperity across the state.”

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