Sept. 28 , 2007
Contact: Rita Mitchell , University Relations
UT Martin Parsons Center exceeds enrollment expectations
MARTIN, Tenn. –The University of Tennessee at Martin’s newest off-campus site, the Parsons Center, recently began fall classes with higher than expected enrollment numbers and news of an additional academic program to be offered in the upcoming spring semester.
The university had set a goal of 70 students attending classes in Parsons this fall. However, actual enrollment numbers indicate that 107 students registered and are taking 663 credit hours of classes this term. The noticeable growth has been attributed to scholarship support offered through an agreement between the Ayers Foundation and UT Martin and also the growing desire of students to earn college level credit and degrees close to home.
“We are extremely pleased with the positive enrollment numbers this semester and are thankful for the generous financial support for our students,” said Jason Rushing, center director. “Many students have families and full-time jobs and are unable to leave these responsibilities to attend school. It is very beneficial for them to have the opportunity to take classes in and around their home community and to be afforded the financial opportunity to do so.”
The Parsons Center, UT Martin’s fourth off-campus site, began its first classes in January 2007. The center offers bachelor’s degrees in K-6 education and university studies as well as the registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing program for nurses. Beginning in January 2008, the center will offer the licensed practical nurse to BSN nursing degree. Additionally, the center offers a variety of general undergraduate education courses designed to accommodate students who may wish to begin working toward a degree close to home or take classes of interest in a specific subject.
Administrative offices for the center are housed in the Parsons Municipal Building, and classes are temporarily being held at Decatur County Riverside High School. A joint construction project currently is underway by the City of Parsons and Decatur County with plans to locate the center in a new facility by January 2009.
For more information, contact the UT Martin Parsons Center at 535 Tennessee Ave. South, Parsons, Tenn. 38363, 731-847-3880 or e-mail Rushing at jrushing@utm.edu.
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