6 March 2006 Lincoln University enrolment figures reflect public confidence

New undergraduate domestic enrolments at Lincoln University are up 9 percent on this time last year, a result described as "positive" by Vice-Chancellor Professor Roger Field.

"With a week to go before the end of the Late Registration Period the 9 percent increase allows us to start the year feeling buoyant about the public's on-going confidence in Lincoln University as a provider of relevant, research-led qualifications that meet the needs of employers," says Professor Field.

The increase has been driven largely by strong enrolments in agricultural science, bachelor's commerce degrees, and within the commerce area the valuation and property management degree.

"The demand for quality graduates in essential New Zealand industries such as agriculture remains strong and that's reflected in our 2006 enrolment figures," says Professor Field.

A national trend of declining international enrolments, seen at most universities last year, is also reflected in Lincoln University's 2006 figures. International enrolments are down overall by 14 percent, although there is an increase of 9 percent in international postgraduate students. Also up is the number of Study Abroad students coming to Lincoln – largely from European and North American institutions, thus broadening Lincoln University's international base.

A further trend in the international area is the number of international postgraduates enrolled in Lincoln University's English Language School who will ultimately transfer to postgraduate programmes when they have completed their English language studies.

"With enrolment figures these days it is important to remember that there are many entry points to take into account before the 'whole year' picture emerges. For example, mid-year, November Summer School and the on-going enrolment of postgraduates who arrive to take up study positions during the course of the year. By no means do all of our students arrive in February/March," says Professor Field.

Ian Collins, Journalist, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand