West Virginia University’s student body continues to become more diverse each year, 2014 fall enrollment data shows.

WVU’s diversity among U.S. citizens on its main campus has grown to 13.4 percent (up from 12.8 percent last year), spurred by a doubling of Hispanics on campus in the last decade. Virtually every other group has also increased, including African American, Asian and multiracial.

Meanwhile International enrollment increased 12.5 percent from a year ago to 2,048 students, 2014 fall enrollment data shows. The University’s international population has grown by 736 students over the last 10 years, better than a 50 percent increase with the majority of the growth in undergraduate students.

“We have all worked hard to increase the diversity on our campuses, so we are pleased to see that we have been successful,” said Brenda Thompson, associate vice president for enrollment management and services. “We live in a diverse world, and it’s important that our campuses reflect that world. Without diversity, the education we offer is incomplete.”

In total, WVU’s main campus enrollment decreases by 1 percent (291 students) to 29,175 compared to 29,466 a year ago. This year’s freshman class is 4,850 students compared to 4,931 in fall 2013. Enrollment at all three of WVU’s campuses is 31,976 compared to 32,348 a year ago.

WVU Tech was one of just three institutions in the state to increase enrollment in 2014. The 3.2 percent improvement brings its overall enrollment to 1,261 students. Enrollment at Potomac State College of WVU is 1,540.

WVU and WVU Tech are two of just five institutions in the state to have an increase in enrollment over the last five years.

-WVU-

td/11/17/14

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