Quincy University enrollment down three percent; number of returning full-time students largest in seven years

QUINCY — After enrolling the institution’s largest freshman class in 50 years in 2023, Quincy University has seen a slight dip in 2024, with total enrollment down by three percent. 

However, a press release from the university on Friday noted this year’s freshman class is 22 percent larger than the class that graduated in May 2024. The number of full-time returning students is the highest in the past seven years.

“With 266 new freshmen, QU has its fifth largest class of the past 10 years,” Brian McGee, president of Quincy University, said in the release. “Given the chaos created by this year’s error-filled federal financial aid process, we are pleased to have what for us is a fairly typical enrollment year, with about the same number of students on campus as last year.

“We are delighted by the quality and the enthusiasm of this year’s new students at Quincy University, including our 111 new transfer and graduate students.”

The fall-to-fall retention rate for last year’s QU freshmen increased by 7 percent. The retention rate is determined by how many first-time degree-seeking students from the previous fall are enrolled in the current fall. It is an indicator of student satisfaction.

“Despite the significant disruption caused by the U.S. Department of Education’s challenged launch of the new FAFSA financial aid platform, which caused delays in the processing and delivery of student financial assistance, the faculty and staff are proud to welcome this year’s new freshmen, transfer, and graduate students,” said Tom Oliver, vice president for enrollment and senior director of student financial services.

New academic and athletic programs also contributed to the enrollment numbers. This academic year marks the beginning of the electrical and mechanical engineering programs with students enrolled in both. The stunt/cheer and competitive dance teams have attracted 22 new students (14 freshmen and 8 transfers).

“We commend these students for their personal accomplishments that earned them admission to QU and for their perseverance in the face of difficulty and delay in getting their

FAFSAs submitted to receive the financial assistance they deserve,” Oliver said. “While the FAFSA challenges were an unwelcomed part of their college discernment process, our new students showed a perseverance and grit that will serve them well as they begin their educational journeys.”

The class of 2028 comes to QU from 24 states and 11 countries. The freshman class has an average GPA of 3.5 and an average SAT score of 1120. Sixty-two Illinois students are receiving the QU Illinois Tuition Promise.

Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions.