In a testament to its mission and growing reputation, Houghton University has achieved nearly 10% enrollment growth on its residential campus over the past two years, coupled with an impressive 15% increase in overall headcount. This growth contrasts with national trends and is of note given challenging demographic shifts in the region and the recent FAFSA complications that have affected higher education nationwide.

“Houghton University’s growth story is more than just numbers—it’s a continuing story of God’s unmistakable movement in the lives of our students and through the impact of our graduates as courageous scholar-servants and fearless ambassadors for Jesus Christ,” said Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., President.

Our enrollment growth is evidence of the enduring and potentially growing appeal of a high quality, biblically grounded education in New York and the northeast. It’s clear that the Houghton experience, which has shaped generations of leaders, continues to resonate strongly with today’s students and their families.

Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., President

 

For students like Bailey Lewis ’28, Houghton’s close-knit Christian community and excellent academics proved the deciding factor. “I really enjoyed sitting in on a music theory class and seeing the students and professor interact and the overall classroom environment,” said Bailey of her campus visit. With the encouragement of one of Houghton’s alumni ambassadors, Bailey found a new home at Houghton and decided to become a Highlander this fall.

Residential Campus Enrollment

2022-2024

Improved student retention and Houghton’s commitment to making Christian education accessible to more students have been key factors for Houghton’s recent growth and the success of students like Bailey.

“Our Founder’s Promise Scholarship is a game-changer for many students,” continued Lewis. “We never want cost to be a barrier for a young person who wants a Houghton education. By increasing financial aid for Pell-eligible students to cover the cost of tuition, we are putting a high-quality, Christ-centered education within reach for students who need additional financial assistance. Houghton’s generous donors, many of whom are Houghton alums, annually provide gifts to help underwrite the aid that makes the Founder’s Promise Scholarship possible. I will forever be thankful for their belief in our students and the vision of our founder and this program.

The university has simultaneously seen exceptional growth among homeschool families and in its Early College Program, with enrollment in Early College courses nearly doubling since last year. Bolstered by strategic partnerships with partner schools and organizations, like Loving Education at Home (LEAH), Houghton has expanded its reach to families seeking a seamless transition from home-based or early Christian education to a Christ-centered university experience.

“Families increasingly want an education that challenges students intellectually and grounds them in their Christian faith, and they are seeking it earlier than ever before,” said Jason Towers, vice president for enrollment and marketing. “The growing demand for Houghton’s Early College Program speaks volumes about Houghton’s reputation for academic excellence and Christian spiritual formation, as well as our strong partnerships with K-12 institutions and organizations who share our commitment to this intentional integration.”

As Houghton University continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its commitment to equip students as scholar-servants in diverse fields around the globe. An impressive 96% of the Class of 2023 reported being employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation. This success stems from the University’s intentional efforts to empower students through academic programs that incorporate hands-on experience expected in today’s marketplace and co-curricular programming that helps them develop the critical soft skills employers seek, like the Highlander Pathways.

Our growth is exciting, but it’s just the beginning of the story. What inspires me most is seeing our graduates go out into the world as courageous leaders and scholar-servants, faithful and loving spouses and parents, and fearless witnesses of the life-giving power of the Gospel. That’s why we are here. That’s what makes it all worth it.

Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., President

 

Houghton University looks forward to celebrating this growth and its more than 140 years of service in Christian higher education with students, alumni and families at the Homecoming & Family Weekend.