RCC Reports Significant Enrollment Growth Amid Statewide Trend

Medford, Oregon- Rogue Community College (RCC) has reported substantial enrollment increases for the 2024 fall term, aligning with a broader statewide trend of growth in Oregon’s community college enrollment. According to fourth-week enrollment data released by the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) on Nov. 15, RCC experienced a 14 percent increase in full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment and a nearly 10 percent rise in overall student headcount compared to the same period last year.

Statewide, Oregon’s community colleges saw a 4.3 percent increase in student headcount, reaching 90,961, and a 7 percent growth in FTE enrollment to 21,897. Despite these gains, statewide enrollment remains below pre-pandemic levels, with headcount and FTE down 17.6 percent and 14.2 percent, respectively, from 2019 figures. RCC, however, reported a return to pre-pandemic FTE levels, outpacing statewide averages with consistent growth over the past three years.

From 2021 to 2024, RCC’s fall headcount rose 30.7 percent from 3,973 to 5,197, and FTE enrollment increased 42.7 percent from 887.7 to 1,267.6. College leadership attributes this sustained progress to strategic initiatives aimed at improving accessibility, enhancing student success, and strengthening ties with the local community.

“These enrollment gains are a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff who have embraced strategies to stabilize enrollment, improve student outcomes, and build stronger community partnerships,” said RCC President Randy Weber.

Strategic Focus and Community Engagement

Since President Weber’s arrival in 2022, RCC has prioritized initiatives to expand outreach and remove barriers to enrollment. Efforts include enhanced high school engagement, open houses, early registration campaigns, and improved placement processes. The college also implemented early alert systems to support at-risk students, refined course scheduling to increase FTE, and aligned academic programs with local workforce needs.

RCC’s Dean of Enrollment Management, Nicole Sakraida, emphasized the impact of these changes. “Adjustments to course schedules have allowed students to more easily select classes, helping them take more credits and complete their programs. These efforts support both their immediate and long-term success.”

RCC has also strengthened partnerships with Southern Oregon University, local industries, and K-12 schools in Jackson and Josephine counties to promote a college-going culture among high school students and increase adult learner participation.

Broader Impact

The enrollment growth highlights RCC’s mission of providing accessible educational opportunities and workforce development to meet regional needs. “By focusing on student success and community engagement, we are creating pathways that benefit not only our students but the entire Southern Oregon region,” said Weber.

For more information about RCC and its programs, click here.