Grossmont and Cuyamaca Continue Strong Enrollment Increases into Fall 2024

 

El Cajon, CA –The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District is once again reporting an increase in enrollment, this time for Fall 2024, which has increased by 8.7% districtwide from Fall 2023 totals. This increase follows a remarkable 21% climb in enrollment over last academic year. On the first day of the fall term, the unduplicated student headcount increased by 10.6% from Fall 2023 totals.

The District attributes the growth to many factors, including more flexible class offerings, enrollment management strategies intentionally focused on students’ needs, intense community outreach and engagement, courses with no textbook costs, and increases in support services such as financial aid, counseling, transfer assistance and tutoring.

“I am so proud of what we are accomplishing at Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges, and this growth can be credited to the dedication and commitment of our faculty and staff who work tirelessly to provide programs and services for our students,” said Chancellor Lynn Ceresino Neault.

Both Grossmont and Cuyamca have offered new and increased support for existing programs and services. For example, Grossmont College's First Year Experience program has record enrollment and is serving more than 1,000 students, and the program is still accepting applications. The First Year Experience program guides students through their first year at Grossmont College with ongoing social and academic support, including priority registration, access to peer mentors, dedicated counselors, and leadership opportunities. 

In Fall 2024, Cuyamaca College will be opening their new Black Student Success Center, solely focused on the needs of Black and African American students. As one of the few community colleges to house a fully dedicated space of this kind, the center will feature Umoja program meeting space and an Umoja counselor, workshops on applying for scholarships, financial aid, and transfer, as well as study sessions, cultural events, and community-building activities.

A recent economic impact report concluded that Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges are a great investment for their students, taxpayers and society, with high value returns on the money invested. Students fare particularly well, with a lifetime return of $7 for every dollar they invest in their education – an annual return rate of 22%, far better than the stock market. 

The Fall 2024 semester started Monday, August 19, and classes are still available. Students can learn more, apply and register at www.grossmontcuyamaca.org.

About the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District (GCCCD)

Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges offer hundreds of degree and certificate programs, including Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Advanced/Basic Certificates. GCCCD is the largest provider of higher education and job training in East County, and the top transfer pathway to San Diego State University. The colleges lead the way in developing educational programs, classes and services that meet the needs of the community of learners, and prepare students to meet changing community and workforce needs, while advancing social justice and economic mobility. www.gcccd.edu