This isn’t really surprising, as many people are seeking authenticity in a religious school.
The College Fix reports:
Faithful Catholic colleges see enrollment boom in face of nationwide higher ed problemsFaithful Catholic colleges continue to thrive while some universities, and higher education in general, face enrollment issues.The Cardinal Newman Society says total enrollment at its recommended colleges has grown by more than 22 percent in the past decade.Total college enrollment is up 2.9 percent from last year according to the National Student Clearinghouse Center, but is down for 18-year-old freshmen. This means recent high school graduates are not starting college as much as prior years. Freshman enrollment at private nonprofit universities is also down 6.5 percent.The group told The College Fix why it believes its recommended colleges have been successful.“The Newman Guide Recommended colleges are uncompromising in their Catholic identity,” Kelly Salomon, vice president of Newman Guide programs, told The Fix via email.“While many families today are questioning the value of a college degree, Newman Guide colleges offer so much more than a ticket to a job—they offer a formation for a lifetime,” Salomon said. “These colleges are invested in the type of person students become and help them grow in virtue and wisdom.”Newman Guide schools refer to colleges that commit to “faithful Catholic education,” according to the group’s news release, which highlighted success stories.One of these is Franciscan University of Steubenville. The Ohio college “has a record incoming class.” A spokesman for the school provided further insights to The Fix.“Families are drawn to our Gospel-centered vision and vibrant sacramental life,” Tim Reardon, enrollment management vice president, told The Fix via email. “We don’t just prepare students for careers; we form them to live boldly as Catholic professionals in the world.”The college offers daily Mass and other sacramental and ministerial opportunities. It also renovating its main chapel.
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