Yakima Valley College continues to see higher enrollment during the current academic year, with overall full-time equivalent enrollment 4% higher in Winter 2025 compared to Winter 2024.
The college’s total enrollment for the quarter stands at 4,402 students (with a full-time equivalent enrollment of 3,475), including its Yakima and Grandview campuses, Ellensburg and Toppenish learning centers and online students. Full-time equivalent enrollment in YVC’s degree- and certificate-granting programs increased by 4% in Winter 2025 from the previous year, while enrollment in College and Career Readiness programs (which includes adult basic education, high school completion and English Language Acquisition classes) also increased by 4%. Enrollment numbers are as of the 10th day of classes and may change until the end of the term.
“The steady enrollment growth we’ve seen is testament to the high quality of education that Yakima Valley College students experience,” said Interim President Teresa Rich. “Our students know they’ll receive an education that’s rigorous and relevant, with support throughout their education journey from faculty and staff who are committed to their success.”
Recently added academic programs that prepare students for jobs in high demand in central Washington and beyond include a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agricultural Sciences, a Practical Nursing certificate and a Sterile Processing Technician certificate. YVC and Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences also recently signed articulation agreements that will enable YVC students to more easily transition into all five of PNWU’s health sciences programs and help meet the regional demand in essential health care occupations.
YVC’s Running Start program, which allows high school juniors and seniors earn college credits tuition-free, also saw growth of 9% for Winter 2025 — an additional 78 students over Winter 2024.
“Our Running Start program has helped make college more affordable for thousands of young people in our region,” Rich said. “Running Start students save time and money while getting to enjoy the wide variety of courses we offer along with numerous support services and campus activities.”
Winter quarter enrollment gains were also particularly strong on the college’s Grandview Campus, with 651 total students taking classes on the campus, an increase of 26% from the previous year.
Students wanting to begin their education journey during Spring Quarter 2025 can get started now. The application deadline for degree/certificate-seeking students who would like to enroll in Spring Quarter 2025 classes is February 18. Non-degree/certificate-seeking students can register for spring quarter classes March 24 – 28. Spring quarter classes begin April 1, 2025.
YVC will host a special admission application help session on January 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. on the Grandview Campus. The event is open to the public and those attending can get hands-on support completing their YVC application and learning about financial aid available to them.