Paris Junior College is celebrating a significant increase in enrollment this fall, reflecting the College’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education to students across Northeast Texas.
This fall, PJC welcomed over 5,000 students, a 15% increase over last year’s enrollment. Total credit hours also rose sharply, from 37,528 in Fall 2024 to 43,594 this year, marking a 16% increase. The College’s full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment, which measures students taking 12 or more credit hours, grew from 3,127 to 3,633 students.
“Our enrollment growth is a testament to the hard work of our faculty, staff, and the outreach we are doing,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, President of PJC. “It also reflects the growing demand for quality higher education and workforce training in our region.”
Paris Junior College serves a broad area that includes all of Lamar and Delta counties, most of Red River, Hopkins, and Hunt counties, and the eastern portion of Fannin County. Its 28 school districts span a service area roughly the size of Connecticut, home to approximately 250,000 residents.
Several initiatives have contributed to this growth. Thanks to a generous donor gift for Lamar and Red River County students, the Dragon Promise Program provides financial support to help students attend college with limited out-of-pocket expenses. Similarly, the Presidential Scholars Program recognizes the top 10% of students from local graduating classes and covers all educational costs. The College hopes to expand these programs across its entire service area as additional funding becomes available.
Expanded academic offerings are also giving students more options to pursue degrees and certificates aligned with local workforce needs. PJC has strengthened outreach through enhanced marketing, a new website, additional admissions recruiters, and increased dual credit staffing. These efforts, combined with improved student support services, have made PJC an increasingly attractive choice for students throughout the region.
“With a continued focus on student success, Paris Junior College is well-positioned to serve our communities and prepare students for the opportunities ahead,” said Dr. Benson.
