A record number of students are taking classes at Northeast Texas Community College this semester as preliminary reports show a 17% increase in enrollment over last fall.

As of the 12th class day, 2,922 students are enrolled in classes at NTCC – up 435 students from last fall and 414 from the previous record set in fall 2003. According to NTCC President, Dr. Brad Johnson, the jump in enrollment this semester can be attributed to several factors.

He credits much of the increase to the expansion of the dual credit program (which saw a 46% increase from last fall), the new Carroll Shelby Automotive Technology Program, the Julia Truitt Culinary Arts and Hospitality Program and intensive work with laid off US Steel employees.

"The College has really been stretched to meet the educational needs of our area this Fall,” Johnson said. "But I am proud to say we found ways to meet the needs of literally hundreds more students."

With many more people on campus each day, parking has become a challenge. An overflow lot has been established in an unpaved area in front of the campus to handle the increased demand.

“We want to make sure all of our students and employees are able to find a place to park. The overflow lot is just a temporary solution, but so far it has been adequate,” Beth Thompson, NTCC Vice President for Administrative Services, said.

In addition to overall enrollment, total contact hours were up 19% over last fall. This indicates that individual students are taking more classes.

“Our entire NTCC team worked very hard to get these students enrolled. Without their hard work and dedication it would have been very difficult to handle the increased demand,” Johnson said.

To learn more about NTCC, visit www.ntcc.edu or call our College Connection and Career Center at 903-434-8140 to speak with an advisor.