JEFFERSON CITY, MO. — Once again, Missouri’s college students are seeking out the opportunities provided through community colleges for their education and workforce training needs.  Enrollment has grown at all of Missouri’s 12 community college systems this summer for an overall average increase of 14.5 percent when compared to last summer’s enrollment.

That is nearly three times the average overall increase that took place in the spring, when enrollment was up 5.9 percent over spring 2008.

“As the economy has continued to struggle, we are seeing more and more people return to school, and the flexibility and affordability of community colleges make it possible for both those with jobs and those who face unemployment to enhance their education,” said Dr. Marcia Pfeiffer, president of St. Louis Community College’s Florissant Valley campus and chair of the Presidents and Chancellors Council of the Missouri Community College Association (MCCA).

The largest percentage increases were reported at Moberly Area Community College, up 32 percent, East Central Community College, where enrollment rose 26.3 percent, and Jefferson Community College, with an increase of 25.7 percent. This semester, there are 41,701 students at the state’s community colleges.

This summer, St. Louis Community College remains the state’s largest community college with 13,658 students, up 13 percent from last summer, followed by Metropolitan Community College with 9,120, an increase of 11.4 percent, and Ozarks Technical Community College with 3,901, up 20.3 percent.

“The incredible growth in enrollment across the state is directly related to today’s difficult job market and tight financial situation,” said Dr. Jim Kellerman, president/CEO of the MCCA.  “Community colleges offer the short-term training, certificate options and two-year degrees that will give Missourians what they need not only to improve their ability to find a job, but to improve their lives.”