GREAT FALLS – Great Falls College has recorded significant enrollment growth this fall, with both headcount and full-time equivalent enrollment increasing over the previous year, according to the college’s official census report.
The college has 1,614 students enrolled this semester, an increase of 124 students, or 8.3%, compared to 1,490 students during fall 2025.
The college’s full-time equivalent enrollment also increased, rising from 884 students last fall to 949 this year, a gain of 7.3%. Full-time equivalency is determined by dividing the total credits taken by all students by 12 since 12 credits is considered full-time.
“We are seeing growth from students across north-central Montana and beyond who recognize the quality and value of a Great Falls College education,” said Dr. Leanne Frost, Great Falls College CEO and dean. “Whether students are pursuing careers in health care, trades, business and technology, education, preparing to transfer to a four-year university or getting an early start through dual-enrollment classes, Great Falls College continues to provide accessible pathways for them to achieve their educational goals.”
Enrollment data show continued momentum following several years of growth. Since fall 2022, headcount enrollment has increased each year, growing from 1,192 students to 1,614 students (35.4%), while full-time equivalent enrollment has grown from 715 to 949 (32.7%).
“Our growth represents students taking important steps toward their futures,” Frost said. “We are proud to help students build skills, earn credentials and prepare for rewarding careers that strengthen our communities and Montana’s workforce.”
In addition to the students included in the official census report, the college’s Career and Technical Education department helped another 354 learners in the last academic year with workforce trainings in areas such as Certified Nursing Assistant, structural welding, Commercial Driver’s Licenses, basic floor installation and the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program.
“Our workforce trainings continue to help the community find meaningful employment while helping employers across the region fill critical workforce voids,” said Quincie Jones, executive director of Career and Technical Education. “We continuously work with industry to find ways to help strengthen their businesses and grow north-central Montana’s economy.”
The Career and Technical Education department also is starting the inaugural cohort for its grid-operator training program in January after receiving a $1.4 million grant from Berkshire Hathaway Energy Foundation to partner with the college. The program will be the first in the nation to be held on a campus. Reach out to the Career and Technical Education department if you are interested in learning more about the program at 406-268-3734 or [email protected].
“It is an exciting time to be a River Otter,” Frost said. “We encourage students to stay local, save some money and get an excellent education that will put them on the path to success.”