LOCK HAVEN, Pa. - Lock Haven University’s fall 2010 enrollment figures show growth in almost all areas, with record numbers for main campus enrollment, graduate enrollment, and overall head-count.

LHU’s overall enrollment is a record 5,451 students, an increase of 3.5%. Undergraduate enrollment at the main campus is up 2.8% to 4,731. Graduate enrollment increased 21.2% to 337, due in part to the university’s two new sites for training additional physician assistants in Coudersport and Harrisburg. Undergraduate enrollment at the Clearfield campus declined slightly to 383 students.

Dr. Marianne Hazel, interim dean at the LHU Clearfield Campus, commented, “We continue to be pleased that so many students find programs at the LHU Clearfield Campus that meet their needs. We continue to develop our offerings and this fall are beginning two new certificate programs to serve additional needs of students and the community.”

The Lock Haven University main campus enrolled 1,192 first-time students and a record 219 transfer students. There were 119 new students at Clearfield. The university admitted a record 117 degree-seeking graduate students (133 graduate students overall).

LHU Interim President Barbara B. Dixon observed, “Record enrollment figures are a testament to the quality and relevance of the education students receive at Lock Haven University. Even in difficult economic times, the blending of a strong liberal arts foundation with professional programs and real world experience taking place within a nurturing environment are powerful attractions for today’s students.”

These figures were reported by the Lock Haven University Office of Planning and Assessment. Enrollment data were calculated on September 20, the university’s official “census date.” According to Jim Meek, assistant to the president for planning and assessment, universities must establish a set date for determining their official enrollment each semester (their “census”). Although schools complete a census each semester, the numbers from the fall census are used for the official enrollment numbers for the academic year. Lock Haven University, along with all PASSHE schools, takes its fall census after the close of business on the 15th day of classes each semester. For the fall 2010 semester, the 15th class day was Monday, September 20.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Deborah Erickson is pleased by the fall 2010 enrollment data: “The numbers speak for themselves: LHU is a great place. We welcome every one of our new and returning students to the The Haven.”