Yakima Valley College sees higher enrollment in winter quarter
Yakima Valley College’s enrollment gains this academic year have continued into Winter Quarter 2024 with an enrollment increase of 11.5% compared to Winter 2023.
The college’s total enrollment for the quarter stands at 4,237 students (with a full-time equivalent enrollment of 3,097), including its Yakima and Grandview campuses, Ellensburg and Toppenish learning centers and online students. Enrollment in YVC’s degree- and certificate-granting programs increased by 13.4% in Winter 2024 from the previous year. Enrollment numbers are as of the 10th day of classes and may change until the end of the term.
“There’s strong demand in our region for individuals who have the skills and attitudes necessary to succeed not only in today’s workplace, but who are lifelong learners,” said YVC President Linda Kaminski. “That’s our focus at Yakima Valley College, preparing students to thrive both professionally and in life.”
Recently added academic programs that prepare students for jobs in high demand in central Washington and beyond include a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agricultural Sciences, a Practical Nursing certificate and a Sterile Processing Technician certificate.
Enrollment in College and Career Readiness programs (which includes adult basic education, high school completion and English Language Acquisition classes) for winter quarter continues to be open.
YVC’s Running Start program, which allows high school juniors and seniors earn college credits tuition-free, also saw growth of 23% for Winter 2024 to 854 students — an additional 158 students over Winter 2023 enrollment in the program.
“Running Start offers students and families in the Yakima Valley an opportunity to save time and money earning their college degree, while also having access to a diverse range of courses taught by our excellent faculty,” Kaminski said.
Students wanting to start their education journey during Spring Quarter 2024 can get started now. The application deadline for degree/certificate-seeking students to enroll in Spring Quarter 2024 classes is February 20. Non-degree/certificate-seeking students can register for spring quarter classes March 25 – 29. Spring quarter classes begin April 1, 2024.
Press Release Contacts:
Dustin Wunderlich / 509.574.6870 / dwunderlich@yvcc.edu
Stefanie Menard / 509.574.4646 / smenard@yvcc.edu