Minnesota State Moorhead Sets Record First-Year Enrollment Growth
First-year enrollment jumps 30%, marking the largest year-over-year growth in two decades
Minnesota State Moorhead News
August 25,2025
Classes start today, Monday, Aug. 25, and Minnesota State Moorhead opened the academic year with historic momentum by setting a record for first-year enrollment growth. The university reports a preliminary 31.2 percent increase in first-time domestic students, up from 590 last year to 774 this fall. It’s the university’s third consecutive semester of new student enrollment increases.
Moorhead is now the fastest-growing four-year public university in the Minnesota State system. Enrollment growth extends across all student segments, including international students and new degree-seeking graduate students. Returning students are also up, signaling increased student satisfaction and retention. The university’s preliminary total headcount is 4,282.
“This is more than a numbers story, it’s a story of momentum,” said President Tim Downs. “We are redefining what it means to be a regional public university by embracing innovation, honoring our liberal arts foundation, and positioning ourselves as the institution that graduates the region’s most sought-after professionals.”
The university’s Moorhead Scholars program has played a pivotal role in driving enrollment. Yet, even when excluding Moorhead Scholars, the university surpassed growth targets in every territory and every academic college. The freshman class includes standout student leaders, top athletes, and high-achieving students who chose Minnesota State Moorhead over other top options.
Dylan Brandon, an incoming Moorhead Scholar and former PSEO student, is studying political science with an emphasis in pre-law. The aspiring lawyer says, “Minnesota State Moorhead seemed right for me. I love experiencing the campus, and that made me want to continue my education here. The academic programs are strong with so many majors and classes to choose from.”
“This kind of success doesn’t happen by accident,” Downs said. “It’s the result of revitalized outreach, smart repositioning, and an unwavering belief in what Moorhead offers – exceptional and relevant academics, meaningful student experiences, and a strong connection to our community.”
The 2025-26 academic year also marks the formal launch of two major initiatives: the Honors College, which will elevate academic excellence across all disciplines, is currently recruiting students to join the inaugural class in the fall of 2026, and the Institute of Applied Artificial Intelligence, designed to give students an edge in emerging fields will launch this fall with a new executive director at the helm . Together with growing athletics programs – now with 386 student-athletes and a record number of first-year players – these developments reflect Moorhead’s commitment to being the number one regional university in the state.
As the new school year begins, Minnesota State Moorhead invites the region to rediscover the power and purpose of public higher education.
“There’s a great opportunity to grow in Moorhead,” Downs said. “We are proud of who we are and we’re even more excited about who we’re becoming.”
Related media coverage:
- Minnesota State Moorhead reports record enrollment growth for first-year students (KVRR, 8/25/25)
- Minnesota State Moorhead sets record for first-year enrollment growth (KFGO, 8/25/25)
- MSUM reports 31 percent increase in enrollment this fall (Valley News Live, 8/25/25)
- MSUM welcomes largest freshman class in 15 years (The Forum/WDAY, 8/21/25)