Spring VIP Opens at Piedmont Tech Following Record Fall

After a record-setting fall enrollment, officials at PTC are looking forward to a good turnout this spring as the VIP registration period draws near.

Registration for the spring term begins November 1 and runs through November 30. Students who register during this period become “VIPs” and receive their first choice of classes and a $25 registration fee waiver.

Enrollment at Piedmont Technical College reached an all-time high this fall semester, surpassing the 6,000-student mark. Enrollment at PTC has now reached a total of 6,226 students, approximately an 8.7 percent increase over the fall enrollment in 2010.

PTC’s record fall enrollment ran counter to the national trend. After record-high increases over the last few years, community colleges across the country are seeing enrollments return to more normal rates of increase, and a growing number of colleges are even reporting declines.

“The fall semester is always our busiest enrollment period, but there has been much more interest in our offerings this academic year than we’ve seen at any point over the course of our 45 year history,” said Zeolean Kinard, director of institutional effectiveness at PTC. “This level of interest is a clear indication that we’re providing the kinds of services and training that our community needs.”

The growth in enrollment can be seen at all six of the Piedmont Tech county centers. Much of that growth can be attributed to the recently-opened centers in Saluda and McCormick and plans for new facilities in Abbeville and Newberry.

“Our enrollment at the county centers has increased by 13 percent,” said Jennifer Wilbanks, dean of county centers. “And I believe we will show even more growth in the spring.”

“The enrollment this semester shows that students are getting the message about the value of a Piedmont Technical College education and all of the doors we can open for them,” said Dr. Ray Brooks, PTC president. “It shows that there is a widespread recognition of the key role the college plays in the economic prosperity of individuals and of the community. We work to meet students where they are in life, at any educational level, and to provide them with the instruction they’ll need to succeed.”

Spring classes begin January 17. To become a Piedmont Tech VIP, register in the month of November by visiting the campus closest to you or call the Admissions Office at (864) 941-8369.