Three Rivers college enrollment figures are up

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. --Enrollment at Three Rivers Community College for the fall semester has topped the 3,000 mark, up more than 50 students from a year ago.

The community college, based in Poplar Bluff, enrolled 3,043 students, according to preliminary enrollment figures. Fall classes started Aug. 17.

School president Dr. John Cooper said affordable costs and the development of higher education centers in the Bootheel helped boost enrollment.

School officials said Thursday they don't have a breakdown yet on enrollment by centers.

Three Rivers has centers at Kennett, Malden, Sikeston, Portageville and Campbell. The community college also delivers a number of courses through interactive television, Cooper said.

Tuition is $61 per credit hour for students living in Three Rivers' taxing district of Butler, Carter, Ripley and Wayne counties. The cost is $98 per credit hour for students living outside the district.

"This year's growth in our student body is continued evidence that Three Rivers offers superior academic programming in the most accessible methods -- all at an affordable cost," he said.

"In these days of rising tuition costs at four-year universities and colleges, Three Rivers will remain steadfast in its commitment to provide an affordable start to a college degree or career for students and families," Cooper said.