CORRECTION: Young Harris College sees largest entering class in years

by Steve Esser

Young Harris, GA (10/04/2026) — Young Harris College is benefiting from strong new student enrollment growth this fall, with increases in first-year, dual enrollment, and graduate student populations.

"This year was a good year for us in the Enchanted Valley. It was the largest incoming class at YHC in four years," said YHC President Dr. John Wells. "The hard work in our admissions and athletics offices is on display with increases in nearly every area of our enrollment."

YHC saw a 37% increase in admission applications and a 20% increase in first-year student deposits. Dual enrollment was the largest class in the history of the program. Likewise, the number of graduate students at YHC doubled this year, with the launch of the new online Master of Science in Leadership and Supervision program and the continued growth in the Master of Arts in Teaching program.

"Over the past year, we've been intentional about aligning our recruitment and marketing efforts, strengthening how we tell the YHC story, and creating more meaningful connections with prospective students and families," said Kayla Walker, YHC's Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing. "This growth reflects the momentum we're feeling at YHC and the intentional work happening across our campus."

As the higher education landscape continues to change, Young Harris College remains focused on creating opportunities for students, strengthening pathways to a college education and preparing graduates to contribute to their communities. The launch of the College's Professional Readiness and Experiential Programs (PREP) initiative builds on that commitment by equipping students with the skills, experiences and confidence to navigate life beyond college with resilience and adaptability.

YHC's growth comes as colleges and universities nationwide navigate shifting demographics and increasing competition for students. The number of high school graduates nationally is projected to decline in the years ahead, making sustained enrollment growth an increasingly important priority across higher education.

"We surpassed every new student goal we set for ourselves," Walker said. "We will continue focusing on sustaining the momentum, especially given the struggles we see in higher education enrollment."

With the fall semester underway, YHC is already working hard on the next recruitment cycle and building on the strategies that contributed to this year's growth. The College's focus remains on sustaining enrollment momentum while continuing to expand opportunities for students to access a YHC education.

"We can't rest on our laurels this year, but must continue to tell the story about the college and our dedicated faculty and staff," Wells said. "What we offer here in the Enchanted Valley, at Young Harris College, is an educational and life experience unlike any other in the United States."

Young Harris College

CORRECTION: Young Harris College sees largest entering class in years

Young Harris College

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