A new study says freshman enrollment’s up. What’s responsible for the increase?

The Pew Research Center says its new study shows freshman enrollment rose by 6% in 2008, to 2.6 million. It’s the biggest jump since 1968, the center adds.

The main reason for the surge? A big leap in minority enrollment. About three-fourths of the 2008 freshman increases were minorities. Of those minorities, Hispanics accounted for the largest share.

Most of the enrollment increases occurred at community colleges, trade schools and public universities. The places with the largest freshman enrollment increases: California, the District of Columbia, Arizona, Alabama and Nevada.

Are you surprised by the study’s findings? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.

Tags: Enrollment, minorities, Pew Research Center