Walsh University has started the new academic year with its largest incoming freshman class since 2019, totaling 396 students. This figure represents a 4.8% increase compared to the previous year and brings the university’s total enrollment to 2,157 students. The university also reported welcoming 58 transfer students, marking the highest number since 2019, aside from last year’s exceptional intake of students transitioning from Notre Dame College, including both men’s and women’s rugby teams.

From 2023 to 2025, Walsh University experienced a 21% rise in new student enrollments (including freshmen and transfers). Over the past five years, freshmen numbers have grown by 4.5%, while transfers have increased by 35%. These gains come at a time when Ohio and much of the Midwest are seeing fewer high school graduates due to lower birth rates following the 2008 recession.

The university noted that its recent enrollment success stands out amid national and regional difficulties in attracting new college students. Walsh is seeing more applicants from Catholic high schools in Northeast Ohio and Cuyahoga County. It remains one of fewer than 23 colleges nationwide recognized as a Cardinal Newman Society Newman Guide Recommended College—a status given to institutions dedicated to Catholic education focused on academic excellence and moral development.

This year’s freshman class has been identified as having the strongest academic profile in Walsh’s history. Among them are 68 Honors Program participants and 22 Blouin Scholars—students who demonstrate commitments to leadership, service, and scholarship. The campus currently houses 866 residential students, features 776 student-athletes competing at NCAA Division II level, and includes representation from students originating from a total of 37 countries; this fall saw an additional intake of 26 international students.

“Walsh University’s enrollment growth this year speaks to the transformative education we offer, grounded in Catholic values and an unwavering dedication to preparing students for professional excellence and lives of purpose,” said Rebecca Coneglio, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “We are incredibly proud to be welcoming a class that is not only our largest in several years, but also one of our most talented and diverse.”