New Hampshire universities face enrollment declines amid shrinking student population

In a recent meeting of the Public Higher Education Study Committee, members gathered to discuss the pressing challenges facing New Hampshire's state universities. The atmosphere was charged with concern as representatives examined the implications of declining enrollment numbers and the future of regional institutions.

One committee member referenced a Wall Street Journal article highlighting the struggles of college towns, particularly noting the situation at Western Illinois University, where empty dorms have become a stark reminder of dwindling student populations. This prompted a broader inquiry into how New Hampshire's universities, such as the University of New Hampshire (UNH), Plymouth State University (PSU), and Keene State College, are faring in this changing landscape.

The discussion revealed that while UNH is experiencing a drop in enrollment, Keene is holding steady, and PSU is also seeing declines. This trend raises concerns about the sustainability of these institutions, especially as the state faces a demographic shift with fewer high school graduates entering the pipeline. The committee acknowledged that this situation is exacerbated by increased competition among colleges for a shrinking pool of students.

Chancellor Provencher emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges, noting that a significant reduction in state support could worsen the situation. He pointed out that New Hampshire has the oldest workforce in the nation, with 27% of workers over the age of 55. This demographic reality underscores the importance of attracting younger students to ensure a robust future workforce.

The conversation also touched on the financial pressures facing universities, with many institutions offering substantial financial aid to attract students. However, the committee recognized that simply discounting tuition is not a sustainable solution. There is a pressing need for a strategic realignment of educational offerings to better meet the demands of today’s students, particularly adult learners seeking flexible and relevant education.

As the meeting concluded, there was a shared sense of urgency among committee members. The future of New Hampshire's higher education system hangs in the balance, with the need for innovative solutions to attract and retain students becoming increasingly critical. The discussions highlighted a pivotal moment for the state's universities, as they navigate the complexities of enrollment challenges and workforce needs in a rapidly changing educational landscape.