Radford University marks third consecutive year of enrollment growth

Total enrollment rises to 7,917 students, with record-high retention rate 

Radford University continues to demonstrate sustained enrollment momentum, marking its third consecutive year of growth and reaching 7,917 students for fall 2026.

Total enrollment increased by 80 students, or more than 1%, from fall 2025 and is up 105 students compared with fall 2024, placing Radford at its highest enrollment level in the three-year comparison period. The majority of the growth is a result of a 5% increase in retention of new and returning students since 2024. 

“This third consecutive year of enrollment growth demonstrates Radford University’s continued momentum and the confidence students and families have in the value of a Radford education,” said Dannette Gomez Beane, vice president for Enrollment Management and Strategic Communications.

Undergraduate enrollment remained steady at 6,237 students, an increase of 31 students from fall 2025. Student retention also remained strong. New freshmen from fall 2025 were retained at a rate of 79.9%, the highest retention rate in university history. The previous record high was set in fall 2000 at 79.1%. This gain reflects the university’s continued investment in student support, academic success and persistence to graduation. 

Graduate enrollment provided much of the university’s overall growth, rising to 1,680 students, an increase of 49 students from fall 2025. Doctoral enrollment grew from 187 to 215 students, graduate certificates increased from 113 to 134 students, and graduate non-degree enrollment rose from 145 to 164 students.  

This year’s enrollment also includes several notable academic milestones across high-demand programs. The College of Nursing reached its largest total enrollment in university history, reinforcing Radford’s role in preparing nurses and healthcare professionals at a time when Virginia and the nation continue to face critical healthcare workforce needs. 

Radford also welcomed its largest entering classes in medical laboratory science and allied health sciences, further strengthening the university’s growing impact in health-related fields. These programs prepare students for essential careers in clinical, laboratory and allied health settings and reflect increasing student interest in pathways that lead directly to meaningful, in-demand professions. 

Graduate and professional programs also posted significant milestones. Radford enrolled the largest entering class in the Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program, supporting the preparation of advanced practice nurses who serve patients and communities across the region. The university also welcomed the largest entering class in the Doctor of Education program, demonstrating continued demand for advanced preparation in educational leadership, practice and innovation. 

Radford’s access and affordability initiatives, including direct admissions and the Radford Tuition Promise, continue to simplify the college enrollment process and help make higher education more attainable for Virginia families. This year, more than 90% of the entering class are Virginians. 

“Radford’s enrollment growth is especially meaningful because it reflects more than numbers – it reflects students choosing programs that connect their goals with opportunity and careers that impact the region and beyond,” said Jerel Benton, assistant provost for student success.