Enrollment at NICC almost hits 5,400

5,398 students are enrolled at Northeast Iowa Community College this spring semester, according to NICC officials. That's an increase of 10 percent from the fall semester and an increase of 22 percent from last year's spring semester. It marks the third consecutive semester of double-digit enrollment growth.

NICC officials attribute much of the rising trend to the troubled economy, displaced workers who are nontraditional students and the college's successful efforts to increase student retention.

"Despite budget concerns, NICC has responded efficiently and effectively to the increased need for higher education, and continues to live its mission of being student driven and community focused," said NICC vice president of academic affairs Curt Oldfield.

A growing number of NICC students are enrolled in online classes--28.5 percent of all NICC students are enrolled in at least one online class. Students say this delivery method offers a flexible approach to completing class assignments, while maintaining educational quality.