LAS VEGAS -- Figures from Nevada's four public community colleges and two universities reveal that enrollment growth continues to make Nevada one of the fastest growing higher education systems in the country.

System wide, headcount enrollment increased by 4.7 percent (81,304 to 85,102) compared to the previous spring semester. Growth in full-time equivalent (FTE) students increased by 4.6 percent for the same period (44,934 to 47,010). Comparing the figures for each academic year, system wide FTE enrollment for 2000-2001 increased by 2.8 percent over 1999-2000.

"Our institutions are doing a wonderful job of attracting and educating our students," said Dr. Jane Nichols, UCCSN chancellor. " With additional incentives like the Millennium Scholarship and a movement to increase high school graduation rates, we will continue to be challenged by rapid growth on our campuses."

Comprising two doctoral-granting universities, four comprehensive community colleges and one environmental research institution, the University and Community College System of Nevada serves the educational and job training needs of the nation's fastest growing state. As Nevada's only system of higher education, the UCCSN provides educational opportunities to nearly 100,000 students.