The double-digit increase reflects continued efforts across the institution to expand access to higher education, strengthen recruitment and retention, and provide a student-centered college experience for students throughout southeast Oklahoma and beyond.
Eastern’s growth comes as the college continues to focus on meeting students where they are, reducing barriers to enrollment and providing the academic and support services students need to persist and complete their education. Recent private support has also expanded scholarship opportunities, helping make an Eastern education more accessible to students across the region.
Concurrent enrollment has been another strong area of growth, increasing nearly 46% compared to fall 2025. Continued partnerships with area high schools and expanded access to college coursework have helped more students begin earning college credit while completing their high school education.
Dr. Anna Peery, Vice President for Student Affairs, said the growth reflects a college-wide commitment to student-centered success.
“Recruitment is only the beginning,” Peery said. “Our focus is on helping students feel connected, supported and prepared to succeed from the moment they arrive at EOSC. This growth reflects the work our employees are doing to create an experience that supports students not only as they enroll, but throughout their time here.”
John Spradling, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said enrollment growth also strengthens Eastern’s opportunity to prepare more students for transfer, career advancement and the workforce needs of the region.
“Growth gives us the opportunity to serve more students while continuing to strengthen the academic programs that prepare them for what comes next,” Spradling said. “Whether a student plans to transfer, enter the workforce or advance in a career, our responsibility is to provide a strong academic foundation and meaningful pathways that lead to opportunity.”
Eastern President Dr. Randy Harp said the increase reflects the collective work taking place throughout the college.
“An 11.6% increase in enrollment is an accomplishment our entire Eastern community can take pride in,” Harp said. “It reflects the work of our faculty and staff and the trust students are placing in EOSC. Most importantly, this growth allows us to serve more students and continue investing in the programs, people and resources that help them succeed.”
Eastern’s fall 2026 enrollment growth reflects a broader institutional focus on access, student success and preparing students for their next step. Through continued outreach, academic programming, student support and partnerships throughout the region, Eastern continues working to create opportunities for students to begin, continue and complete their education.
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