February 5, 2025
East Texas Baptist University continues to see strong enrollment for the Spring 2025 semester, marking the second-highest Spring enrollment in the University’s history. This milestone highlights ETBU’s commitment to Christ-centered higher education and student success.
The Spring 2025 enrollment stands at 1,612 students, following last year’s record-setting Spring enrollment of 1,657 students. This marks the first time in ETBU’s history that Spring enrollment has exceeded 1,600 students in consecutive years.
"We are grateful for the continued strength of our enrollment and the confidence students and families place in ETBU," said President J. Blair Blackburn. "These numbers reflect the dedication of our faculty and staff and the unwavering mission of our University to provide a transformative Christ-centered educational experience. We celebrate how God is working in the lives of our students as they grow academically, spiritually, and professionally."
Undergraduate enrollment remains strong at 1,440 students, making it the second-highest in ETBU history, following last year’s record of 1,481 students. Additionally, dual enrollment totals 258 students, the second-highest for a Spring term. The University continues to provide affordable and accessible higher education to high school students across East Texas, including the cities of Marshall, Tyler, and Waskom.
ETBU’s commitment to student success is reflected in its strong retention rates. The returning student retention rate is 91%, tying the highest on record for Fall-to-Spring retention. Additionally, freshman cohort retention stands at 87%, while transfer cohort retention is 86%.
"Retention is the collective effort of our entire campus community," said Provost and Vice President for Academics Thomas Sanders. "From faculty engagement to student life experiences, we are intentional in fostering an environment where students thrive. The consistency in our retention rates is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff in supporting student success."
The Spring 2025 semester is in full swing, highlighted by a meaningful time of reflection and fellowship during the annual Spiritual Renewal event. Students, faculty, and staff are now looking forward to upcoming activities and traditions like the Black History Month Celebration, Connexus, spring Tiger Athletics, and the ETBU School of Communication and Performing Arts’ production of Anastasia."
"ETBU is a Christ-centered home where students are challenged and nurtured in mind, body, and spirit to grow as servant leaders," said Vice President for Enrollment Jeremy Johnston. "It is a privilege to walk alongside our Tiger students, equipping them with the tools to lead with faith, wisdom, and a heart for service."
Prospective students and families interested in joining the ETBU community are invited to attend Preview Day on February 17 or Tiger Day on March 29. More information about campus visits is available at www.ETBU.edu/visit.