Universities across the U.S. are facing the potential for significant decreases in domestic enrollment as birth rates have declined since the 2008 recession, and the rollout of the new FAFSA has created unanticipated hurdles for aspiring college students. University of Bridgeport (UB) is bucking these trends, achieving remarkable success in first-year domestic enrollment for the fall 2024 semester, marking a positive shift in the University’s ability to meet the needs of local and regional students. Through a combination of strategic investments, innovative programs, and a renewed focus on student support, UB continues to see growth in an increasingly competitive landscape, instilling optimism for the future.
Continued momentum in domestic enrollment
After reporting consecutive enrollment increases for the first time in five years during the fall of 2022 and 2023, UB’s 2024 enrollment numbers continue to reflect an institution on the rise. In addition to a 24% year-over-year increase in total domestic undergraduate enrollment, first-year applications for the fall 2024 increased by 17% compared to the previous year, with acceptances up 19%. First-year enrollment deposits rose by 27%, while housing deposits increased by 22%, a clear indication that more students are choosing UB not only as their academic home but as a place to live, learn, and grow.
A key factor in this growth is the successful launch of new and relevant academic programs designed to meet the demands of the region’s job market. Among these is UB’s new associate degree in Nursing (RN) program, which has already garnered significant interest. As of the fall 2024, 159 students enrolled in prerequisite coursework for the program, set to begin in summer 2025. The University also continues to see strong performance in its School of Business, which has posted enrollment gains for the fourth consecutive year with enrollment increasing 52% since 2021.
Local students are increasingly drawn to UB’s career-focused programs and strong connections with regional industries, finding clear pathways to professional advancement within Connecticut’s expanding business, healthcare, science, and technology sectors. With the addition of programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Marketing and the fully online Master of Science in Counseling, UB continues to meet the evolving needs of both students and the workforce, equipping graduates with skills that align with high-demand fields
UB’s innovation ethos
Innovation and strategic thinking are at the heart of what makes a UB education sought after among prospective students. UB’s approach to educating students centers around the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), an inclusive educational framework spearheaded by Goodwin University, UB’s partner institution. By bringing UDL to UB’s campus, University leadership has positioned UB faculty and staff to provide cutting-edge, researched-backed learning and growth opportunities that aim to break down barriers of access and promote active student engagement in learning.
With a focus on educational opportunities and programs that will improve the lives of students and their families for generations to come, UB’s faculty are chosen for their academic expertise and their industry experience — combining the theoretical with the practical — to provide students with real-world experiences that will ensure they graduate prepared to address the needs of the workforce from day one of their careers.
Strategic partnerships with local businesses and organizations have also played a crucial role in elevating UB’s profile. These collaborations provide students with hands-on experiences, internships, and career opportunities that set them apart in the job market.
Innovation beyond academics
At UB, innovation isn’t exclusive to the classroom. Since 2021, under the leadership of President Danielle S. Wilken, Ed.D., UB has made substantial capital improvements aimed at creating a dynamic, equitable environment that promotes learning, well-being, and community engagement.
These enhancements, which include the renovation of a state-of-the-art fitness center, updates to campus labs in science and engineering, and improvements to dormitories, are all part of the University’s commitment to its students. New kitchen areas in residence halls, for example, have helped foster a sense of community, giving students more opportunities to connect outside the classroom as well as creating spaces for international students to prepare and share their cultural cuisine.
Additionally, new partnerships on campus are aimed at providing better services for students. This includes a partnership with Hartford HealthCare, which has significantly improved Student Health Services on campus, along with a collaborative initiatives with the Bridgeport Police Department to further improve student safety — both demonstrating the school’s dedication to student well-being.
UB continues seeking new opportunities for students to become engaged on campus. In the fall of 2023, UB opened a new and more accessible location for the Knight’s Pantry, a food pantry on campus free to all UB students. In addition to the upgraded food pantry, UB partnered with Follett Higher Education to improve the on-campus books store — including making all course learning materials free for UB students. That same semester, UB opened its state-of-the-art eSports Lounge and hired Ali Dika as the eSports coach. Dika leads the eSports team, while Wheeler Recreation Center oversees the eSports club on campus. UB now offers students more than 50+ clubs, organizations, and Greek life to help students connect and build community outside of their academics.
Supporting the local community
UB’s commitment to serving local students is perhaps best exemplified by the recent success of the “Bridgeport’s Brightest” scholarship program. This initiative offers financial support to students from the city of Bridgeport, helping make higher education more accessible to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend college. For fall 2024, 38 students received this prestigious scholarship, representing an ongoing investment in the city’s youth.
“We’ve always known that Bridgeport has incredible talent, and through programs like Bridgeport’s Brightest, we’re ensuring that local students have a clear pathway to success,” said Danielle S. Wilken, Ed.D., President of University of Bridgeport. “Our mission is not only to provide a high-quality education but to help build a thriving community by investing in its people.”
Reenergizing campus life through athletics
The University’s commitment to holistic student development extends beyond academic support. UB’s NCAA Division II athletics programs have seen continued growth and success, with women’s soccer, softball, and volleyball teams making national tournament appearances. The momentum continues with the planned expansion of UB’s athletics offerings in fall 2025, which will include men’s and women’s swimming, diving, and wrestling teams.
Students increasingly want to be part of a university that supports their ambitions in every aspect of their lives. By expanding its athletic programs, the school is giving students more ways to engage with the UB community and excel outside the classroom.
A bright future on the horizon
As UB approaches its centennial celebration in 2027, University leadership remains focused on building an institution that meets the challenges of the future. With more than 9,000 applications already received for the spring 2025 semester, UB continues to prove that its efforts are resonating with students both locally and regionally.
“Despite the challenges facing higher education today, UB is not only surviving — we’re thriving,” said Allison Garris, Ed.D., Dean of Admissions. “Students recognize the value of the education we provide, and we’re proud to be a university that’s growing in so many exciting ways.”
As UB continues to innovate and expand, it remains deeply committed to offering students a supportive environment and a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities that prepare graduates for success in an ever-changing world.