North Central Michigan College continued its upward enrollment trend for Winter 2025, with a 5% increase in both credit and contact hours compared to Winter 2024, alongside notable growth in full-time students.

Additionally, the college saw an increase in adult student enrollment, aided by the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship, which expands access to tuition-free and reduced-cost degrees for eligible Michiganders without a college credential.

Winter 2025 enrollment stands at 1,722 students, with the number of returning students increasing by 5% over the previous year. The number of full-time students has increased by 10%, occurring alongside a 5% increase in Full-Time Enrollment Equivalency (FTE), a measure that aggregates part-time students into full-time student equivalents. This growth is a strong indicator of student success, as full-time students gain greater momentum toward degree completion.

NCMC’s student demographics continue to evolve, with traditional-aged students (18-24) increasing by 7% and adult learners (25 and older) increasing by 6%. Additionally, 80% of NCMC students who enrolled in Fall 2024 returned for the Winter 2025 semester, underscoring the college’s commitment to student retention and success.

“This enrollment growth demonstrates that more students see the value of a North Central credential,” said Erin Sonneveldt, associate dean of Institutional Research and Assessment. “Our commitment to affordability, accessibility, and career-driven education — supported by programs like Michigan Reconnect — is making a real difference in student success and retention.”

Beyond traditional degree programs, North Central serves nearly 200 students annually through Fast Track career programs and offers more than 8,500 learners access to Lifelong Learning opportunities, reinforcing the college’s role as a regional education leader.

Current and prospective students can register for North Central’s Fall 2025 semester beginning March 12, while Summer 2025 registration is open now.