The Golden Eagles are soaring. For the second consecutive year, the University of Minnesota Crookston has reached a record high in degree-seeking enrollment, with 1,896 students enrolled for fall 2026. In addition, overall enrollment has increased for the fourth consecutive year.
The new record builds on last year’s record enrollment and comes as colleges and universities across the country navigate changing demographics and evolving student expectations. At UMN Crookston, the continued growth reflects the appeal of a University of Minnesota education that combines hands-on learning, personal attention, career preparation, and flexibility.
Of the university’s 1,896 degree-seeking students, 664 are studying on campus and 1,232 are enrolled online. UMN Crookston also welcomed 445 new students this fall, including 216 new high school students, 229 transfer students and 13 new certificate students.
“These numbers represent much more than enrollment growth,” said Chancellor Mary Holz-Clause. “They represent students choosing UMN Crookston because they see the value in what we offer and believe this is the right place to invest in their future. Our faculty and staff deserve tremendous credit for creating an experience that students want to be part of and for supporting them once they arrive.”
Growing with Purpose
For UMN Crookston, growth is not about becoming bigger for the sake of being bigger. It is about building strength while preserving the characteristics that make the Crookston experience distinctive.
The university continues to offer the small class sizes, personal attention, and close-knit campus community that have long been central to student success, even as more students choose UMN Crookston for their education.
“Our growth is a reflection of the strength of our model, not a departure from it,” said Holz-Clause. “We can grow and still be the place where students know their professors, find meaningful opportunities, and feel connected to their campus. That personal experience is part of why our students thrive here, and we are committed to protecting it.”
Meeting Students Where They Are
The continued growth of UMN Crookston’s online programs is another important part of the university’s enrollment story. With 1,232 online degree-seeking students, nearly two-thirds of Crookston’s degree-seeking students are pursuing their education online.
That allows the university to serve students with different goals, circumstances, and educational needs, from traditional students seeking the experience of a residential campus to working adults, transfer students, and others who need the flexibility of online learning.
“I knew I wanted to attend the University of Minnesota Crookston since I was 8 years old,” said current student Emily Waterworth. “I fell in love with the welcoming campus and close-knit community, and Crookston has exceeded my expectations by giving me a place where I can grow, feel supported, and build my future. While I chose to attend UMN Crookston on campus, my twin brother chose to take classes through UMN Crookston online, proof that this campus really does meet people where they are at.”
That combination of value, flexibility, and student experience has earned UMN Crookston recognition in national and statewide rankings. U.S. News & World Report ranked UMN Crookston No. 1 Best Colleges for Veterans in the Regional Colleges Midwest and No. 2 Top Public Schools – Regional Colleges (Midwest). The university also ranked No. 26 Regional Colleges (Midwest). The latest 2027 Niche rankings also highlight UMN Crookston across academics, campus life, and value. The university ranked No. 1 Safest Public College in Minnesota, No. 1 Best Public College Dorms in Minnesota, and No. 1 Best College Campus in Minnesota, a new ranking for UMN Crookston. The university also ranked No. 2 Top Public Universities in Minnesota, another new ranking, and No. 2 Best Value Public College in Minnesota. UMN Crookston ranked No. 3 Best Small Colleges in Minnesota.
For students still considering their college options, the university’s enrollment growth offers another reason to take a closer look.
“Choosing a college is a significant decision,” said Holz-Clause. “We are proud that more students are choosing to become Golden Eagles, and we want prospective students and families to see for themselves why Crookston is a place where they can build their future.”
Students interested in learning more about UMN Crookston can explore academic programs, visit campus or connect with admissions at umcrookston.edu/admissions.
