More Students Than Ever Are Choosing Williston State This Summer
Williston State College set a new record for summer enrollment in 2026, with 234 students enrolled at census, college officials announced.
That total marks a 23.8% increase from 189 students during Summer 2025 and reflects steady growth across several enrollment categories.
Full-time equivalent enrollment rose to 84.12, up 41.3% from the previous year. Students also registered for 1,262 credit hours, an increase of more than 41%. Degree-seeking enrollment climbed to 172 students, a 22% gain, while non-degree-seeking enrollment reached 62 students, up 29.2%.
College President Dr. Bernell Hirning said the increase shows students continue to see value in the college’s programs and flexibility.
“Reaching the highest summer enrollment in Williston State College history reflects the trust students place in WSC and the tremendous work our faculty and staff do to make education accessible, flexible and relevant,” Hirning said. “These numbers represent more than growth. They represent students taking meaningful steps toward completing a degree, advancing in their careers or beginning their college journey.”
Online courses played a major role in the increase. The college reported 196 online-only students, a 21.7% rise from last summer. Online credit hours also grew to 1,008, an increase of nearly 40%.
Participation in Early Entry and Dual Credit programs also expanded. A total of 43 students enrolled in those programs, accounting for 252 credit hours. That represents increases of 16.2% in students and nearly 27% in credit hours.
The college said that the strong summer term reflects ongoing efforts to serve students across northwest North Dakota, eastern Montana and surrounding areas by offering flexible and accessible learning options.
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