Redlands Community College has been experiencing steady growth in enrollment over the past several years, but this year, the college hit a significant milestone. The total headcount for the Fall semester is 2,684, a 12.2% increase over last Fall and the highest enrollment in the college’s nearly 90-year history. Retention efforts also proved successful with a 23% increase in sophomore enrollment.
“Reaching the highest enrollment in Redlands history is an extraordinary achievement and a reflection of the trust students and families place in our college,” said Redlands President Jena Marr. “This milestone reinforces the important role Redlands plays in providing an affordable, high-quality education to the communities we serve and working with business and industry to develop the workforce they require.”
In addition to the historic increase in total students, enrollment of first-time college students is up significantly with increases in new-to-college students and former concurrent students returning as first-time freshmen or sophomores. As the demand grows for associate-degree holders, Redlands is working with business and education partners to align curriculum and course offerings to support students and prepare them for the next step. In 2025, Oklahoma had more than 41,000 jobs requiring an associate degree.
The substantial increase in sophomore enrollment reflects Redlands’ strong focus on student retention and success. Faculty and staff have enhanced the early alert system to proactively identify students who may need additional academic or personal support. Coupled with personalized advising, flexible tutoring options, and expanded student services, these interventions are helping more students remain on track and return for their sophomore year.
Concurrent enrollment continues to increase with a 16.1% rise in the number of high school juniors and seniors getting a head start on their college education. This continued growth in concurrent enrollment underscores the college's strong partnerships with area high schools.
As a long-standing provider of concurrent enrollment opportunities, Redlands continues to offer college classes tuition-free to high school juniors and seniors, with students only responsible for fees and textbooks. Through a partnership with the Redlands Community College Foundation, concurrent student can receive a scholarship to help offset the cost of fees.
Redlands remains committed to providing flexible, affordable educational options for students. The Board of Regents voted in June to freeze tuition and mandatory fees for a ninth consecutive year, and the college continues to reduce cost barriers through the use of free digital textbooks in several general education courses.
In addition, Redlands’ partnerships with area career technology centers offer students innovative pathways to an associate degree. Students in eligible programs can combine block credit from their technology center with general education coursework from Redlands to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree. Program options include Allied Health, Veterinary Assistant, Business and Accounting, Computer Systems and Applications, and Industrial Power and Transportation.
“Our students benefit from dedicated faculty and staff, strong support services, and partnerships that create more opportunities to continue their education or enter the workforce,” Marr said. “Everything we do is focused on helping students find their path and achieve their goals.”
The second session of eight-week classes begins Oct. 12. Contact the Admissions and Advising office at 405.422.1417 or email Admissions@redlandscc.edu to enroll. The schedule of classes is available online at www.redlandscc.edu.