SALEM — Applications are up at Salem State College.
With the economy in recession and many families struggling financially, the number of students applying to the state college has risen nearly 13 percent, according to figures through mid-December.
"We've been seeing this trend for a few years," said Nate Bryant, assistant dean of admissions at Salem State. "State colleges are looking more and more reasonable in terms of cost and quality."
Salem State charges just over $15,000 for full-time, in-state students who live on campus and about $6,500 for commuters who pay only tuition and fees. In contrast, the cost of a private college can range from $20,000 to $50,000 per year.
"Compared to a private college, it's a steal," said Karen Cady, a spokeswoman for Salem State.
Salem State may also be seeing an increase in interest from students who have decided on a career path and found that Salem State offers the courses they need.
"We used to accept just to the college in general," Bryant said. "Now, we're getting more students applying to specific majors."
Among the most popular choices are nursing and business, he said.
"The students and parents are more knowledgeable about what we have to offer. ... They are doing their homework, which speaks volumes."
Even with applications on the rise, Salem State is not increasing its enrollment from the current level of 7,500 full-time undergraduates, Cady said.
That means the college is becoming more competitive.
"Unfortunately ... we're just going to be turning away more students," Bryant said.
Salem State recommends that students apply by March 1 for enrollment in the fall of 2009.
Salem State applications*
2007 — 3,157
2008 — 3,564
* Figures are through mid-December.
