Gastonia Times

Belmont Abbey College has announced its fourth highest total enrollment in the college's history, with a 2% increase over last year. The current enrollment stands at 1,687 students, including traditional undergraduates, online undergraduates, dual-enrolled students, non-degree seekers, and graduate populations. Notably, there has been a 25% growth in the undergraduate online space due to the popularity of online degrees and the introduction of new majors in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Digital Marketing.

Classes began on August 19th with 660 new students joining Belmont Abbey College. Dr. Jesse Dorman, Vice Provost of Enrollment at Belmont Abbey College, expressed enthusiasm about the incoming class. “We are thrilled to welcome this highly engaged incoming class, with their unique talents, skills, and abilities that will enrich the Belmont Abbey College community and extend far beyond our campus. These students have so much to offer, and we look forward to supporting their growth as they embark on a journey of holistic development by seeking the true, the good, and the beautiful throughout their college journey,” Dorman said.

Among the new student population are 69 new graduate students across seven programs. This includes new Master of Arts programs in Communication and Classical and Liberal Education. In August 2024, Belmont Abbey celebrated its inaugural commencement for 83 graduates from various master's programs including MBA, MHA, MSN, MS in Data Analytics, and MA in Leadership. Dr. Brad Frazier, Director of Graduate Programs at Belmont Abbey College commented on this milestone: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our graduating master’s students. Their graduation ceremony was a moving tribute to their academic journey and a reminder of the positive impact they will make in their professions and communities,” Frazier said.

The college also received notable rankings in the 2024-2025 US News & World Report. Belmont Abbey is ranked #2 in Undergraduate Teaching for the academic year due to its holistic teaching approach supported by exceptional faculty members who serve as both teachers and mentors. Additional rankings include #16 in Best Value Schools in the South and #22 in Overall Best Colleges in the Southern Region.

These achievements reflect Belmont Abbey’s commitment to providing high-quality Catholic liberal arts education rooted in Benedictine hallmarks such as stability, stewardship, and community.

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