Cumberland University is celebrating another historic year with its largest enrollment to date, totaling a count of 3,457 students on Census Day. This number surpasses the previous record enrollment of 3,072 students in 2023, marking an impressive 12.5% increase.
Cumberland continues to defy enrollment trends seen across the nation, proving its ability to appeal and cater to a variety of individuals including transfers, international students, Tennessee Reconnect and Promise students, graduate students, and dual enrollment students.
Vice President of Enrollment Services, Reggie Blair, remarks on the growth he has seen in the university- both in student count and campus expansion- over his three years in the role.
Blair explains how Cumberland stays competitive in today’s market, sharing, “We knew this was going to be a challenging year with FAFSA delays and other issues surrounding higher education. However, we remained committed to prioritizing customer service and ensuring attentiveness to the needs of students and families. We made sure they knew we were here to be a partner with them throughout the entire enrollment process, and it paid off significantly.”
President Paul C. Stumb attributes much of the university’s success to its affordability, noting that Cumberland ranks among the most cost-effective colleges in the state. Cumberland’s commitment to keeping education affordable and accessible, along with various scholarship opportunities, has brought in students from all walks of life.
Cumberland’s expanding program offerings have also been key to attracting and retaining students. In the last year, Cumberland has introduced new graduate programs including Master of Science in Information Technology Management (MSITM), Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM), Master of Science in Forensic Psychology (MSFP), and Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS). This academic portfolio expansion ensures the university stays keen and responsive to the evolving needs of students.
“Our ability to meet the needs of students through a talented and growing number of amazing faculty and staff, as well as a rapidly expanding physical footprint with modernized facilities and technology has fueled our growth,” Stumb explained.
Cumberland’s appeal extends beyond the campus. The university benefits from its location in Lebanon, a city that has seen rapid growth under Mayor Rick Bell, a former CU professor. The addition of new businesses in the area, combined with its proximity to Nashville, has created an exciting and vibrant college-town environment that enhances the experience for students.
Above all, Cumberland’s dedicated faculty and staff have been largely responsible for the growing student body and the high retention rate. The community built within the school, combined with a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, offers a unique and personalized learning environment that students can easily assimilate into. Cumberland University provides students with the tools to grow and thrive not only academically but also personally, with a sense of belonging that supports their overall success.
For more information on becoming part of Cumberland’s growing community, visit www.cumberland.edu/admissions.