Record Breaking Enrollment at Gaston College
Gaston College has recorded its highest enrollment numbers in history as the 2025 fall semester begins. As of Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2025, total curriculum enrollment, which includes students seeking a degree, diploma, or certificate, stands at 6,925, reflecting a rise of 669 students from the previous year. This marks the fourth consecutive year of enrollment growth at the college, with an impressive increase of 32% since fall 2021.
“Reaching this level of enrollment is an exciting moment for Gaston College. It shows that more and more people are recognizing the value of the programs, partnerships, and opportunities we offer,” said John Hauser, President of Gaston College. “We’re building momentum that not only strengthens our college, but also the entire community we serve. This year’s growth is a big step forward, and it’s a testament to the work our faculty and staff are doing to reach, recruit, and retain more students every semester. We can’t wait to see the impact these students will have in the years ahead.”
In the 2024–25 academic year, Gaston College awarded 867 associate degrees, 179 diplomas, and 1,176 certificates. The current cohort includes students from various programs, including university transfer/general studies and several career and technical pathways, such as business, industrial trades, healthcare, and public safety.
With enrollment continuing to grow, Gaston College is expanding opportunities for students and enhancing its role in the region’s economic and workforce development. During the 2023–24 academic year, Gaston College students received over $10 million in institutional, federal, state, and scholarship aid, benefiting 61% of its student population. This support highlights the college’s mission to make education attainable.
