Heritage University reports substantial enrollment growth for fall 2026

Toppenish, Wash. – Heritage University is beginning the fall 2026 semester with strong enrollment growth at both its Toppenish and Tri-Cities locations, reflecting continued demand for the university’s undergraduate and graduate programs.

Fall 2026 undergraduate and graduate combined student enrollment is up more than 11% compared with fall 2025.

Contributing to the strength of this year’s enrollment is Heritage’s 88% retention rate of returning students, significantly higher than the national average of approximately 77%.

“An 88% retention rate is a tremendous accomplishment and a testament to the commitment of our faculty and staff,” said Heritage University President Dr. Chris Gilmer. “Our students know that at Heritage they will be seen, heard and supported. Our faculty and staff take extraordinary steps to help students overcome obstacles and stay on the path to graduation.”

The enrollment gains reflect strong demand for Heritage’s academic programs and its student-centered approach to providing accessible, high-quality higher education throughout the region.

Several undergraduate programs are experiencing particularly strong demand, including nursing, social work and education. At the graduate level, enrollment continues to grow in Heritage’s Master of Social Work and Master of Mental Health Counseling programs.

The growth also reflects Heritage’s continued commitment to creating pathways to a four-year degree for students who may not traditionally have had access to a university education. For graduate students, Heritage provides working professionals with opportunities to advance their careers while balancing the demands of work, family, and school.

“The strength of our fall enrollment is evidence that students and families see Heritage as a place where they can achieve their educational goals,” said Gilmer. “Students are choosing Heritage not only to begin their degrees, but to finish them, advance their careers and prepare for the next chapter of their lives. We are very encouraged by the confidence students are placing in Heritage.”

Heritage University Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Beth Durodoye said the enrollment numbers represent much more than institutional growth.

“Behind every enrollment number is a student who has made the decision to invest in themselves and their future,” said Durodoye. “These students are choosing Heritage because they see a path forward here. We are excited about what their success will mean for them, their families and the communities they will serve.”

For more information, contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator, at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

 

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