When the Fall 2007 term began, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology not only welcomed a well-prepared, academically strong and diverse group of new students to campus, they also welcomed back a larger-than-average group of last fall's freshmen.
A new report from the South Dakota Board of Regents details retention rates at the regental institutions. The School of Mines leads the pack with 2006-2007 retention rates of 75.8 percent, a significant increase over previous years.
This increase in retention rate is directly related to new admission standards, implemented in fall 2005 for the fall 2006 class. Students enter the School of Mines more academically prepared, which translates into greater retention.
"That these students chose to return to the School of Mines speaks to the quality of the education that they receive and the support they receive from our outstanding faculty and staff," School of Mines President Dr. Charles Ruch said. "The outstanding retention rate of our 2006 class is also a testament to the success of our new admission standards."
The enrollment data confirms this, with freshman class credentials reflecting increases in both ACT Composite and Math scores and increased grade point averages for incoming students and their class rank in high school. In addition, one in every two incoming, first-time freshmen from South Dakota are designated as Opportunity Scholars, a statement to their academic preparedness.
Retention rates also improve with increased student support. The number of incoming freshmen receiving scholarship support has steadily increased in recent years. Helping students identify resources to pay for their education also helps to keep them in school. To be eligible for freshman scholarships, students must apply and complete all admission requirements by February 1, 2008. Students can visit www.GoToMines.com/apply for more information.
#30#