THIBODAUX, La. – A growing freshman class and higher retention rates are creating momentum at Nicholls State University this fall.
Official figures from the 14th class day show an enrollment total of 5,795 students, highlighted by 1,088 first-time freshmen, a 1.4% increase, and a 4.1% rise in graduate students.
Overall enrollment decreased by about 1.7%, driven by lower dual-enrollment participation among local high school students. Excluding dual enrollment, year-over-year figures remained approximately even. The university also saw a 3.9% increase in TOPS recipients and achieved a 74.93% first-time freshmen retention rate, up 1.5%.
“When you see growth in incoming freshmen alongside a rise in retention, it tells you that students are not only choosing Nicholls but that they are also thriving here,” said Nicholls President Jay Clune. “Our mission has always been to provide a transformative collegiate experience in Louisiana, and these figures prove our campus culture is delivering on that promise.”
The College of Sciences and Technology grew by 5.2%, supported by growth in applied sciences, biological sciences, mathematics, petroleum engineering technology and safety management. Enrollment in the Thibodaux Regional Health System School of Nursing rose 1.1%, with further growth anticipated following the completion of expanded nursing facilities later this fall. Additionally, the Master of Business Administration program saw an astounding 65.5% increase in enrollment.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Todd Keller noted that these gains highlight the strength of the university’s academic offerings.
“From our rising graduate programs to our expanding undergraduate departments, our faculty continue to build academic pathways that attract and retain high-achieving students,” Keller said. “We are seeing momentum where it matters most, in our classrooms, labs and retention rates.”
Regional connections remain equally vital, with three-quarters of the student body from the surrounding eight-parish area, led by Terrebonne Parish and highlighted by a 10.7% surge in students coming from Jefferson Parish.
Complete enrollment statistics are available through the Office of Institutional Research, Effectiveness and Planning at www.nicholls.edu/IREP.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, September 21, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Payton Suire
Media Relations & Publications Coordinator,
985.448.4141 or payton.suire@nicholls.edu