MADISON, Wis. — This fall, the enrollment statistics from the University of Wisconsin system’s four-year institutions have shown a modest increase compared to the previous year, based on data made public on Tuesday.

According to the figures released, as of the 10th day of the 2024 fall semester, overall enrollment numbers reached 164,431 students, reflecting a rise of 1.2% from the same period last year.

Among the 13 four-year universities within the system, UW-Green Bay reported the most significant growth, adding 975 new enrollees, which equates to a remarkable 10.5% increase. UW-Madison, recognized as the system’s flagship institution, experienced an approximate enrollment growth of 3%. Additionally, UW-Superior, located in the far northwestern part of the state in Douglas County, saw a rise in enrollment of 3.6%.

However, not all campuses experienced growth. Five institutions, including Eau Claire, Oshkosh, Parkside, Platteville, and Stout, reported declines in their enrollment numbers.

On the other hand, the two-year branch campuses within the system experienced a significant drop of 22% in overall enrollment. Notably, the UW-Stevens Point campus in Marshfield faced the steepest decline, with a staggering reduction of nearly 45% compared to the previous fall.

University officials have attributed these downward trends in enrollment to a combination of factors, including a declining number of high school graduates and a growing number of graduates opting to join the workforce instead of pursuing higher education.