WSU Fall 2020 Enrollment Remains Steady
Despite the many challenges posed by a pandemic, total enrollment for Weber State University remains steady for fall 2020. According to the annual third-week fall headcount, the total number of students at Weber State stands at 29,596 compared to 29,644 in fall 2019, which was a record year.
In addition, a record 3,377 first-time students entered the university in 2020, up 64 students, or 1.9%, from fall 2019.
Data from the Utah System of Higher Education shows enrollment at all Utah’s public colleges and universities held steady compared to last year, with a slight net decrease.
“Students continue to pursue their academic journey because they believe in the importance of a quality Weber State education to help them advance their lives and careers,” said WSU Provost Ravi Krovi. “Given the challenges, the number of students enrolled reflects the incredible efforts of our dedicated faculty and staff.”
During fall semester, 30% of Weber State classes have at least some on-campus component — 11% of those completely face to face — another 59% are online, and 11% offer individualized instruction, including clinical lab supervision. The remainder of courses are being taught using virtual and online methods.
While the 2020-21 school year may look different, Weber State is still making student success a top priority. Faculty are using innovative techniques to offer an outstanding educational experience. Staff are working to keep campus safe, and students are finding creative ways to build a fun and engaging campus community.
From teaching and taking dance classes on Zoom to holding star-gazing parties through Facebook Live, Weber State has met the changes necessitated by a worldwide pandemic. When technology was limited, art classes were taught using iPhones, in engineering classes requiring extensive computing power, faculty deconstructed labs with high-end computers to loan out to students. Group projects use collaborative platforms such as Google Docs.
For those attending courses in person, facilities management staff have stepped up to help keep campus as safe as possible. Around 150 custodial staff members help Weber State’s facilities stay clean and disinfected, with special attention given to high-traffic common areas in buildings and high-touch points, such as door handles. Face coverings are mandatory, and 4,000 fliers, posters and window clings are part of a marketing campaign to remind everyone on campus to stay vigilant to keep campus safer for learning.
Outside of classes, campus life has also adjusted to accommodate the new normal while still helping students feel welcome. The Weber State Student Association and other campus clubs began holding events virtually. From game nights on Zoom to virtual dance parties, student organizations have flexed their creativity to make the school year interactive and inclusive.
Instead of the traditional homecoming football game, a week of “Stay-at-Homecoming” celebrations have been held for the campus community, complete with a virtual purple pancake breakfast and the annual Mount Ogden hike.
In addition to flexible course offerings and student activities, Weber State has also ensured students have access to all the services they might need during the school year. Counseling Services is offering virtual sessions, tutoring is available online or in-person, and the Student Health Center is open by appointment. A new remote proctoring system called Proctrio is also being used to make testing available from any location.
Weber State has already announced its plans for spring semester 2021, which will be similar to fall. Students will be able to choose from a variety of course delivery methods to meet their individual needs.
“We are committed to providing opportunities for involvement and helping all students know they have a place at Weber State,” said Ben Ferney, student body president. “This year has pushed us to find creative and innovative ways to move forward. Things may be different than usual, but the memorable traditions that make Weber State great are still very much alive.”
Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
Shaylee Stevens, Office of Marketing & Communications
801-626-7948 • shayleestevens@weber.edu- Contact:
Allison Barlow Hess, Public Relations director
801-626-7948 • ahess@weber.edu