Campus News

Innovation and Connection Drive Enrollment Growth at Juniata College

(Posted October 22, 2025)

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HUNTINGDON, Pa. – At the precipice of the “demographic cliff,” as colleges nationwide compete for a shrinking pool of prospective students, Juniata College continues to stand apart. 

“Our fall census on campus was extremely encouraging and shows that our recruitment and retention strategies are resonating with our students,” said Jason Moran, vice president of enrollment. “Throughout our home region, colleges and universities have seen mixed results in this challenging environment.” 

After several years of both national and regional demographic challenges with colleges reporting mixed enrollment trends, Juniata’s fall 2025 census showed a 9% increase in total headcount since 2022, reaching 1,363 students. This growth reflects the College’s strategic focus on new academic programs, expanded athletic recruitment, and strengthened student success initiatives.  

The “demographic cliff,” a projected drop in college-age students following the Great Recession expected to peak this year and continue into 2026, has reshaped higher education across the U.S. Juniata’s numbers tell a different story and represent a commitment to resilience, innovation, and connection to address the growing demand to fill critical roles in the workforce.  

Out-of-state enrollment has surged, with students from the mid-Atlantic region up 16% since 2022, and those from beyond the region up 68% since 2023. Transfer enrollment, including students from Juniata’s community college partners, has also climbed dramatically, increasing 32% over 2024 and 52% over 2023. 

The addition of degree programs like nursing and civil and environmental engineering are driven by institutional mission, projected employment growth, and student interest. Furthermore, Juniata’s accelerated dual degree program, where students can earn their bachelor's degree and master's degree for select programs in just four years continues to have strong appeal. New programs have continued to attract strong interest and accounted for nearly one in five new students this fall, with early indicators showing sustained momentum for 2026. Along with new programs, The Princeton Review’s surveys of students who attend the nation’s 391 best colleges ranked the college #5 for Most Accessible Professors, with students noting professors’ availability outside of the classroom to meet and connect. #16 for Best Classroom Experience, and #23 for Great Financial Aid. 

“We are seeing the results of bold thinking and a commitment to meeting students where they are,” Moran said. “We are preparing students with an education that makes them not only able to adapt to change, but to lead it.” 

Learn more about Juniata’s academic programs and student-centered approach to graduate outcomes at juniata.edu/admission.  

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.