Piedmont University Sees 30 Percent Jump in Applications for 2023-24 Academic Year

An outstanding year for Piedmont University is ending on a high note, with applications for the 2023-24 academic year up 30 percent over last year.

“The word is getting out: it is great to be a Piedmont Lion,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management Cindy Peterson.

As of Dec. 9, Peterson’s office had received over 1,800 applications for the 2023-24 academic year, 400 more — or 30 percent — over the same time last year. Of those applications, 147 are from out-of-state students. Applicants represent 26 states and the District of Columbia.

Piedmont has made significant investments in out-of-state recruitment. Programs are being marketed in areas where data show strong enrollment potential. An out-of-state admissions advisor, Tiffany Hines, spends the majority of her time on the road, meeting with prospective students and their families. The university’s athletic coaches play an increasingly crucial role in out-of-state recruitment.

“We have a unique value proposition that appeals to both prospective students and their most important influencers — their parents,” Peterson said.

“At Piedmont, students enjoy small class sizes, a personalized educational experience, a liberal arts education that emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking and leadership, vibrant student life and athletic opportunities, and the idyllic surroundings of the Appalachian foothills. There’s not much more you could want in your college experience,” Peterson said.

The increase in student applications is the latest in a string of successes for Piedmont.

Earlier this year, the university welcomed the largest freshmen class in its 125-year history and opened Mystic Hall, its largest, most modern residential facility.

In August, Piedmont was recognized by The Chronicle of Higher Education for high-impact practices that are positively affecting student retention. In September, U.S. News & World Report issued its annual rankings of colleges and universities. Piedmont climbed nine spots on the list of top regional universities, ranking No. 44 compared to No. 53 in 2021. Piedmont also ranked No. 20 — up 11 spots from 2021 — on the list of “Best Value Schools” among schools in the South Region, which is comprised of 12 states. U.S. News’ rankings examine a variety of factors, including tuition, class size, and selectivity. Earlier this month, Piedmont’s Board of Trustees announced it has selected Marshall Criser, former chancellor of the Florida university system, as its next president; he takes office Jan. 1.

“Piedmont has long been a very well-kept secret. The secret it out,” Peterson said. “We’re looking forward to a very exciting 2023.”