THE NEW SIGN at the Bay College Iron Mountain campus. (Sean Chase/Daily News photo)

Bay College’s overall enrollment climbed by 9% in the 2023-24 academic year, bringing the student population to 1,996, the college said in a news release.

The college conferred 332 degrees and certificates across various fields of study during the academic year. Its top programs include nursing, liberal arts, business, social work, criminal justice, early childhood education and welding.

Only 29% of its students were full-time, which the college said reflects the flexibility needed to accommodate diverse lifestyles and commitments, especially with adult learners.

Meanwhile, Bay’s dual enrollment program has grown by 19% over the past five years, providing high school students the opportunity to take college courses while in high school. This past year, 583 high school students participated. Some early college students in a fifth year of high school received their college credentials before their high school graduation, officials noted.

The college awarded $569,000 in foundation scholarships to 369 students this past year. Funds that help students achieve their educational goals are supported by contributions and gifts from community organizations, businesses, Bay employees, families, foundations and individual donors.

In all, 64% of students received financial aid and 33% were eligible for federal Pell grants.

The Michigan Reconnect and Futures for Frontliners initiatives have proved successful, officials said. Currently, 230 students are enrolled and 54 degrees and certificates have been conferred to date. These programs provide opportunities for adult learners to return to education and further their careers.

Michigan Reconnect is a scholarship program that pays for students to attend their local community college — tuition-free for in-county and reduced tuition for out-of-county residents. Students may use the scholarship to complete an associate degree or a certificate program. To be eligible, the student must be at least 21 years old to apply; currently live in Michigan for a year or more; have a high school diploma or GED; and have not yet completed a college degree. More information is available at www.baycollege.edu/reconnect.

Among the college’s student body, 39% are first-generation college students, meaning they are the first in their family to attend college. Additionally, 14% of students identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and women make up 62% of the student population.

Founded in 1962, Bay College has campuses in Escanaba and Iron Mountain. The Escanaba campus includes the Michigan Technical Education Center, which offers training and development courses.