College sees boost in enrollment as more in-person classes, services return
Yakima Valley College saw its enrollment in degree- and certificate-granting programs increase by 12.7% in Fall 2022 compared to Fall 2021 as the institution welcomed the return of more in-person classes and student services to its campuses and learning centers.
The college’s total full-time equivalent enrollment stands at 2,945 in Fall 2022, marking the first uptick in enrollment since the global pandemic upended educational plans for students across the nation. From the 2019-20 academic year to the 2021-22 academic year, enrollment at Washington’s community and technical colleges fell by 19.6% as students struggled with job losses, K-12 school closures and other pandemic-related challenges.
“We are thankful to see more students back on campus this fall — including those just starting their college experience as well as students who needed to take a pause during the pandemic,” said YVC President Linda Kaminski. “It’s an extremely positive development for our entire region that more people are working toward a degree or certificate that will prepare them for well-paying jobs that are in-demand here in the Yakima Valley.”
For the first time since the start of the pandemic, the majority of YVC’s classes this fall are either fully in-person or hybrid, with a mix of in-person and online instruction. In addition, the college’s student services are back to offering in-person support during regular business hours this quarter. Online classes and student services continue to be offered for students who need them.
“We know that providing in-person academic and support services to students can play a crucial role in their success,” Kaminski said. “Being able to bolster that support for students this fall was an important step for YVC.”
In addition, Kaminski noted that campus life and community spirit have been reinvigorated with more students, faculty and staff on its campuses in Yakima and Grandview and learning centers in Ellensburg and Toppenish.
“The strong sense of community is something that distinguishes YVC,” Kaminski said. “This fall we’re seeing a renewal of that community spirit already with more opportunities for students to explore their interests through student clubs, participate in cultural events or support the college’s athletics teams.”
Students wanting to start their education journey this winter can get started now. The application deadline for degree/certificate-seeking students to enroll in Winter Quarter 2023 classes is November 21. Non-degree/certificate-seeking students can register for winter quarter classes December 27 – 30. Winter quarter classes begin January 3, 2023.
Press Release Contacts:
Dustin Wunderlich / 509.574.6870 / dwunderlich@yvcc.edu
Stefanie Menard / 509.574.4646 / smenard@yvcc.edu