Coppin State University Welcomes More Than 1,500 New Students, the Largest Incoming Class in School History

Coppin State University is welcoming more than 1,500 new undergraduate students this fall, the largest incoming class in the university’s history and a 47% increase over Fall 2025.

According to a press release issued by the university, first-year enrollment drove most of that growth, climbing from 773 students in Fall 2025 to 1,241 this fall, a 61% year-over-year jump. Transfer enrollment rose by more than 13%, bringing in 287 new students.

The numbers are part of a longer run. Coppin State’s overall enrollment has increased 75% since Fall 2022, and the university received more than 24,000 applications for Fall 2026.

Male enrollment continues to be one of the university’s standout storylines. New male undergraduate enrollment went from 284 students in Fall 2025 to 403 this fall, a 42% increase, and male enrollment overall is up 74% since 2021, placing Coppin among the state’s top universities for male enrollment growth.

“Coppin State is attracting talented scholars who recognize the value of an affordable, high-quality education,” said Dr. Anthony L. Jenkins, president of Coppin State University. “This record class shows the confidence students and families have in Coppin State and the return on investment that Baltimore’s hometown university can offer them.”

The incoming class comes from more than 36 states and the District of Columbia along with 12 countries, and will study in programs spanning nursing, health sciences, education, business, behavioral and social sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the arts. The first-year class enters with an average high school GPA of 3.1, and more than 360 students received merit-based academic scholarships.

“Our record enrollment growth is the result of a deliberate, data-informed six-point enrollment strategy focused on expanding access while elevating academic excellence,” said Jinawa McNeil, senior director of admissions and orientation.

Students are supported through the First-Year Experience and the Eagle Achievement Center, along with academic advising, coaching, mentoring, and career preparation designed to move students from enrollment to graduation.

The class also arrives as the campus grows. Thurgood Marshall Hall, the university’s new residence hall, is scheduled to open in January 2027, and the university is expanding health care services and hands-on learning through a new dental care clinic and community-focused academic partnerships.

“Welcoming a record class is an important milestone, but enrollment is only the beginning,” Jenkins said. “Our responsibility is to ensure every student receives a strong return on their investment, a clear path to graduation, and the holistic development needed to lead, serve, and succeed.”

Fall 2026 Incoming Class at a Glance

• More than 1,500 new undergraduate students
• 1,241 first-year students, a 61% increase over Fall 2025
• 287 transfer students, a 13% increase over Fall 2025
• New male undergraduate enrollment up from 284 to 403 students
• More than 24,000 applications received
• Students from more than 36 states, the District of Columbia, and 12 countries
• 53% of incoming students are Maryland residents
• Average high school GPA of 3.1
• More than 360 first-year students received merit-based academic scholarships
• Overall enrollment up 75% since Fall 2022

Congratulations to Coppin State University and to every new Eagle joining the yard this fall.