When the Fall 2007 term began, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology welcomed a well-prepared, academically strong and diverse group of students to campus.
Total Fall 2007 enrollment at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology fell slightly as compared to Fall 2006 enrollment figures. Student headcount decreased by 54, or 2.54 percent. A total of 2,070 students are enrolled.
Despite the anticipated decline in enrollment due to more selective admission requirements, larger graduating classes in 2006-07, and declining demographics, students entered the School of Mines more academically prepared, which is expected to translate into greater matriculation and retention in the future.
The enrollment data confirms the expected impact of the new admission standards--namely, enrollment is temporarily decreasing while quality and diversity are increasing, indicated by four markers:
- The 2007 freshman class credentials reflect increases in both ACT Composite and Math scores.
- The grade point averages for incoming students and their rank in high school graduating class have increased.
- The 2007 freshman class has a greater percentage of geographic diversity. Freshmen are from 40 South Dakota counties, 23 states and five countries.
- The 2007 freshman average course load as measured by credit hours has increased.
The retention rate of the 2006 class is nearly 76 percent, a significant increase over previous years. In addition, one in every two incoming, first-time freshmen from South Dakota are designated as Opportunity Scholars, a statement to their academic preparedness.
"We are pleased to welcome such a strong class. That they chose the School of Mines speaks to the quality of the programs available and the success our alumni achieve," School of Mines President Dr. Charles Ruch said. "The outstanding retention rate of our 2007 class is a testament to the success of our new admission standards."
More than 95 percent of School of Mines graduates find work in their career fields or are accepted into graduate or professional programs. The graduates who enter the workforce average starting salary offers of approximately $54,000.
The School of Mines has been listed as one of America's 100 Best College Buys for 2007-08. The School of Mines has made the list for 10 consecutive years.