BLUEFIELD, VA (LOOTPRESS) – Bluefield University is celebrating one of its largest fall enrollment increases in years, with gains in both online and on-campus students.
Online enrollment for the first fall term grew by 38 percent compared to last year, while on-campus undergraduate enrollment rose by 24 percent. Officials say both figures represent the university’s strongest fall increase since at least 2018.
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“Having students back on campus always brings life and energy,” said Kristen Parker, Dean of Students.
“With the growing number of students, we’ve noticed it in the small, everyday moments, like seeing groups talking in the quad or enjoying activities together, as well as in our larger events, where attendance has doubled and even tripled at things like Welcome Back Bingo, Pool Night, and Food Truck Friday.”
The university also expects online enrollment to continue climbing when the second fall term begins in October. “Our eight-week terms allow students to start year-round, which keeps our programs flexible and accessible,” said Harrison Rice, Associate Vice President for Online Learning.
Bluefield continues to expand opportunities through its partnership with the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM).
Programs include the Master of Health Science in Anesthesia (MHSA), which trains anesthesiologist assistants, and the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (MABS). Both serve as pathways to medical school and healthcare careers.
The university is also strengthening transfer options. “We are working on new initiatives that will make Bluefield more accessible and allow students to complete degrees faster,” said Travis Roberts, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing.
Enrollment remains open for upcoming terms, including October online programs as well as the spring and fall 2026 semesters for both in-person and online students.
