UTSA reports record spring enrollment and retention rates

JANUARY 28, 2025 — UTSA has achieved another milestone with a record-breaking spring 2025 enrollment, marking a 3% increase over spring 2024 as of the first day of classes.

Preliminary undergraduate enrollment grew by 4%, while doctoral enrollment rose by 2% compared to last spring. The university also experienced significant growth in its fully online programs, with enrollment rising by 8% to surpass 1,100 students across its top-ranking programs.

Students are taking more credit hours than ever, enrolling in over 394,000 hours this semester—a 4% increase compared to last spring. This upward trend means more Roadrunners are on track to graduate on time, reducing educational costs and accelerating their entry into the workforce.

“Our record retention rates are a testament to UTSA’s dedication to creating an environment where every student can thrive.”

Over the past decade, UTSA has dramatically increased the number of degrees awarded annually while also reducing the average time to graduation—from 5.3 years in 2012-2013 to 4.4 years in 2023-2024.

“UTSA’s increase in spring enrollment underscores the tremendous momentum we’ve built in providing access for all students to a high-quality education,” said Heather Shipley, UTSA provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “These numbers are more than just data points—they reflect our commitment to academic excellence and the trust our students place in us to guide them towards successful careers and meaningful futures.”

In addition to enrollment, retention rates reflect the university’s commitment to student success.

The one-year retention rate for first-time, full-time Roadrunners who began their journey in fall 2023 has reached an all-time high of 80%. Two-year retention now stands at 69%, a 2.5% increase over last year, while third-year retention has risen to 55.5%, up 3% from the previous year.

“Our record retention rates are a testament to UTSA’s dedication to creating an environment where every student can thrive,” said Tammy Wyatt, UTSA senior vice provost for student success. “By providing personalized support and transformative opportunities, we are helping our students persist, graduate and succeed in their academic and professional goals.”

These achievements are fueled by UTSA's strategies to build a thriving student success ecosystem. Key initiatives include the Classroom to Career initiative, which connects students to experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for career success. Additionally, a comprehensive support network that includes enhanced academic advising, tutoring, peer mentoring, resiliency and retention programs, career counseling and the integration of student success centers within each college, help UTSA students navigate their academic journey with confidence.

The university has also made significant investments to reduce financial barriers for students. Expanded financial aid and scholarships, along with efforts to reduce textbook costs, have made a high-quality education at UTSA more accessible. Programs like Bold Promise have enabled thousands of low- and middle-income students across Texas to pursue a UTSA education without having to worry about debt.

UTSA is using data-driven student success strategies like investing in tools that tracks student progress in real-time, which allows university faculty and staff to help at-risk students with targeted interventions.

In addition, the university prioritizes holistic support for student well-being, recognizing that mental and physical health, resilience and engagement are essential to academic achievement and personal growth.

“At UTSA, we are building a community where all students feel empowered to succeed,” Shipley said. “By combining academic rigor with innovative support systems, we are preparing Roadrunners to excel and lead in a rapidly changing world.”

— KC Gonzalez