Morehead State welcomes largest incoming class in recent years
Morehead State University is experiencing a period of remarkable momentum, with Fall 2025 new student enrollment surpassing pre-COVID levels and marking a multi-year high.
“Our team is excited to welcome one of the largest incoming classes we have experienced in recent years. We haven’t seen enrollment like this since pre-COVID,” said Dr. Heidi Reid (Class of 2005), assistant vice president for enrollment management. “Students are looking for the best value and MSU provides that. Our national rankings combined with our beautiful campus and affordable tuition makes us an attractive option.”
This enrollment growth comes at a time when colleges and universities across the nation are experiencing a decline in enrollment. According to statistics, the United States is entering a university enrollment cliff due to a decrease in the number of 18-year-olds graduating from high school.
“We believe that this enrollment growth is due to students recognizing the value of a college degree, specifically a Morehead State degree,” Reid said. “According to some recent stats from the CPE (Council on Postsecondary Education), the average bachelor’s degree holder will earn $1.2 million more than a high school graduate over their lifetime. MSU provides a great return on investment.”
Morehead State is also seeing an increase in student engagement on campus. During Welcome Week+ events, student organizations are promoting opportunities to get involved. The Office of Student Activities is seeing a large number of inquiries and registrations for student activities.
“We are encouraged by the number of incoming students currently registered to participate in student activities,” said Russell Mast, vice president for student affairs. “Living on a residential college campus provides so many unique opportunities. MSU hosts over 100 student organizations, so there is something for everyone.”
Complementing this enrollment and engagement growth, the University’s graduation rates also reached historic highs this year, leading the state in the percentage of growth.
“At Morehead State, we don’t just focus on enrolling students - we’re deeply committed to helping them graduate and succeed beyond the classroom,” said MSU President Dr. Jay Morgan. “Our graduation rates and state-leading degree completion growth reflect the care, support and academic excellence that define the MSU experience.”
The Fall 2025 semester officially began on Monday, Aug. 18. A full calendar of campus activities is available online through Morehead State’s Online Events Calendar.
Applications for 2026 are open for students who are ready to pursue a high-quality, affordable education in a supportive and engaging campus environment. With nationally recognized academic programs, strong graduation outcomes and a vibrant student life, MSU offers an exceptional college experience.
Interested students are encouraged to explore admissions opportunities and begin their journey by visiting www.moreheadstate.edu/apply.
For more information, contact Enrollment Services at 606-783-2000 or admissions@moreheadsstate.edu.
Photo: Morehead State students for events like New Student Days (upper pic) and Eagle Fest (lower pic) during MSU's Welcome Week+.
