Houghton University Grows for Second Consecutive Year

Houghton University, New York’s leading evangelical Christian university, is celebrating its second consecutive year of undergraduate enrollment growth, in contrast to national trends, reaffirming its appeal to students seeking a Christ-centered education.

“As one of the few remaining options in the northeast for students seeking a high-quality university experience grounded in Biblical truth, Houghton continues to attract students who want to prepare for professions, service and ministry in a supportive Christian environment,” said Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., President of Houghton University. “While the U.S. Department of Education’s FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) rollout over the last year has created unprecedented financial aid application challenges for students, especially low-income and first-generation college students, Houghton’s commitment to removing financial barriers for students continues to resonate with families. In just a few weeks, Houghton’s faculty and staff will welcome the class of 2028 to campus with excitement, including our 2nd cohort of Founder’s Promise Scholars. We are praying now in anticipation of a transformative educational experience for them; one that prepares and equips each of them for their vocational callings.”

To support increased male student enrollment, the University will reopen Shenawana Hall for fall 2024. This sustained growth reflects Houghton’s ongoing commitment to affordability, academic excellence and the integration of Christian faith into every aspect of the student experience.

“With the confusion of this year’s FAFSA, we’ve seen more families reconsidering their college decision into the summer,” said Jason Towers, vice president for enrollment and marketing. “Houghton’s promise of generous financial aid and Christ-centered academic excellence has encouraged many to now choose Houghton. We continue to eagerly welcome and assist these students and their families pursuing changes to their fall plans.”

Alongside the incoming class, Houghton has seen increased student retention. The first-year student retention rate surpassed the national average by over 5 percentage points,* underscoring Houghton’s commitment to student success and academic excellence. Houghton students come from 40 U.S. states and territories, 20 countries and represent over 30 Christian denominations. More than 80% of the incoming class coming from the northeast U.S. and Ontario.

A Houghton education continues to prepare students for relevant, in-demand careers. This second consecutive year of enrollment growth, including the increase in students choosing to continue their education at Houghton, demonstrates that families are not only seeking what Houghton offers, but that the University delivers on its promises.

Jason Towers, Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing

As the University’s enrollment grows, registration has surged among families seeking early college coursework. In fact, the number of college credits taken by high school juniors and seniors has more than doubled year-over-year. This dramatic increase highlights the significant value families place on a Christ-centered Houghton education, even at the high school level.

Houghton University is proud to welcome this exceptional group of students who join tens of thousands of alumni who have pursued an intentionally Christ-centered, academically challenging education in the liberal arts and sciences over the last 140 years. Prospective students and their families are encouraged to explore this community of scholar-servants at Houghton University by submitting the free online application for admission.

* https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d23/tables/dt23_326.30.asp?current=yes