Midland University Sees Growth in Non-Traditional Programs as Enrollment Remains Near-Record Levels
Break-through initiatives such as the Midland University Code Academy and the Para-to-Teacher program have contributed to Midland University maintaining near record enrollment. This fall Midland welcomed a total of 1,386 students to its campuses in Fremont and Omaha.
Midland’s non-traditional programs have seen remarkable growth in the past year, due in part to the introduction of the Code Academy and by partnering with Omaha Public Schools for the Para-to-Teacher program. Enrollment in Midland’s undergraduate programs remained strong and steady.
“We are extremely pleased to see rapid growth in our non-traditional programs while maintaining a strong foundation of students in our traditional and graduate programs,” said Midland University President Jody Horner. “Innovative approaches to education such as the Midland University Code Academy and the Para-to-Teacher partnership with Omaha Public Schools are allowing more adult learners to gain skills that will enhance their employment opportunities.”
Earlier this month, Midland garnered national recognition when U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos visited the 10,000-square-foot Omaha location and students in the Code Academy during her “ReThink School” tour. The tour highlighted the innovate ways in which educators across the country are meeting the needs of individual students, such as the Code Academy’s 10-month program designed to provide students with the website development and coding skills that will prepare them for high-demand, high-paying careers in the technology sector.
Through its partnership with Omaha Public Schools, para-educators can work toward earning a teaching degree with a field endorsement in Elementary Education K-8 over the course of two years. Those completing the Para-to-Teacher program also can earn a supplemental endorsement in either Early Childhood Education or English Language Learners.
Interest in the Midland University’s undergraduate and graduate programs continues to remain strong. Students are attracted by Midland’s unique and innovative offerings, such as the 4-Year Graduation Guarantee, expansive opportunities in intercollegiate sports and performing arts, graduate programs such as the new Master of Athletic Training 3+2 Option, and Omaha’s only hybrid MBA program.
“One of our goals is to provide opportunities for students to earn a degree in four years while continuing to pursue their passions,” said Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing Eliza Ferzely. “This goal resonates with students, and has enabled us to attract those who want to graduate with less college debt, be engaged in an active residential campus, and compete or perform in the activities they enjoy.”
Midland continues to enhance the student experience and educational opportunities on its residential campus in Fremont. The university has renovated campus dining and common areas where students can find a variety of welcoming spaces to eat, hang out, and study throughout the day. A new honors program was initiated in the past year and a speech and debate program is set to begin this fall.
Midland’s latest addition to the largest athletic department in Nebraska – men’s and women’s swimming – is poised to begin competition in October and is scheduled to host its inaugural home event at the new Dillon Family Aquatic Center in January.
Midland has seen tremendous growth over the past eight years, including seven straight years of increased enrollment. That success has been driven through expansion of its offerings. Today Midland is home to 35 academic programs, 31 varsity sports, and more than 250 opportunities in the performing arts.
Founded in 1883, Midland University is a private liberal arts college located in the heart of Fremont, Nebraska. Midland opened its Omaha location in the spring of 2017 to meet the growing demand for more graduate and professional programs. Known for its 4-Year Graduation Guarantee, Midland maintains a 10:1 student to faculty ratio and an average class size of 18, so students have full access to professors who know them by name. For more information, visit www.midlandu.edu.
