RADFORD – A record-breaking 796 new graduate students have enrolled for the fall 2025 semester, marking the highest new degree-seeking graduate enrollment in Radford University history.
This achievement reflects the university’s continued commitment to academic excellence, innovation and meeting the evolving needs of today’s workforce. The growth is driven by strong demand across a diverse range of graduate programs, including health sciences, education, social work, business and strategic communication.
“This milestone reflects the strength and relevance of Radford’s graduate programs and our ongoing commitment, supported by collaborative campus partnerships in recruitment and marketing, to preparing graduate students for meaningful contributions in their professions,” said Cris Thompson, associate director of graduate recruitment and admissions.
Radford’s graduate enrollment has seen a steady upward trend in recent years, driven by strategic investments in online learning, interdisciplinary programs and partnerships with healthcare and education providers across the region. The university’s emphasis on flexibility and career readiness has resonated with both recent undergraduates and working professionals seeking to advance their careers.
“Our faculty’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence plays a pivotal role in attracting and enrolling high-caliber graduate students,” said Agida Manizade, assistant provost for graduate affairs. “Their mentorship, research leadership and engagement ensure that our graduate programs remain competitive, innovative and deeply impactful.”
The programs with the most growth this year were the Master of Social Work and the Master of Science in educational leadership, both high-demand fields.
Graduate education around the country continues to experience steady enrollment at public universities. Employers need employees with graduate degrees for roles that require specialized expertise, organizational leadership, updated technology skills, creativity and higher-level problem-solving.
“The master’s program at Radford University has given me the ability to work directly with clients and develop the skills needed to serve the community,” said Henry Brewer, a graduate student in counseling and human development.
Adriana Garcia ’25, a graduate from Pulaski County High School who decided to continue toward a Master of Fine Arts after completing her bachelor’s degree at Radford, said, “I knew I needed another degree to teach and practice as a leader in my field.”
For more information about Radford University’s graduate programs, visit https://www.radford.edu/graduate.
Justin Ward for Radford University
