In a press release this week, Weber State University announced it has set a new record for student enrollment.

“Weber State set a new record this fall with a total headcount of 33,558 students,” the release said. “Enrollment across multiple student populations has increased, including students transferring from other institutions, students returning to school after several years off, and students aged 25 or older.”

According to the release, WSU awarded 8,288 degrees and certificates to 7,056 students in the 2025-26 academic year, including:

“1,314 certificates

Photo supplied, Weber State University

3,967 associate

2,554 bachelor’s

419 master’s

34 doctorate”

WSU Public Relations Director Rachel Badali told the Standard-Examiner in an email that WSU is trying to meet students where they are in the modern day.

“Students need education options that fit today’s realities,” she said. “That means focusing on things like flexibility, affordability, quality, and outcomes. Weber State is really good at making it possible to both get started and excel all the way to graduation.”

WSU President Chris Mallett, who took the helm at WSU in August, said that the university serves everyone.

“Students at all stages of life are benefitting from a Weber State degree,” he said in the press release. “We’re here for all learners, from those getting a head start in high school to those returning to college after years in the workforce. We’ll continue empowering our students with choices and helping them gain the professional experience and confidence to reach their next big milestone.”

Badali noted that setting enrollment records isn’t exactly new for Weber State these days.

“Weber State has set an enrollment record five years in a row,” she said. “That’s exciting because it means more and more students will experience the benefits of higher education. What matters even more, though, is the growing number of degrees and certificates that have been awarded. Each of the 7,056 students who earned credentials are closer to their goals.”

She said a few programs are sticking out in terms of growth.

“Nursing remains one of the most popular degrees, reinforcing WSU’s reputation as a top provider of health professionals in Utah,” she said. “The School of Computing programs, which offers degrees in computer science and more, are also in high demand.”

In a time when higher education is facing many challenges and evolutions, Badali said this new enrollment milestone shows that higher education is still seen as vital for local students.

“Our community is seeing the value of a degree, no matter where they are in their educational journey,” she said. “It’s so encouraging to see thousands of students getting the support, confidence, and skills they need to position themselves for a lifetime of success.”

She added that WSU is hardly alone in this endeavor.

“Throughout the state, higher education institutions are working together to make sure Utahns have the very best education options,” she said. “At Weber State, students have a wide range of educational programs to choose from. We also work really closely with local technical colleges so students can easily choose to build on what they’ve already accomplished and continue their education at WSU. The goal is to work together so we’re making more possible for more students.”