As Hardin-Simmons University neared its sustainable capacity, it entered an era of managed growth during the 2006 - 2007 school year by tightening admissions standards, expanding the honors program, and making entrance to HSU more competitive. Last year, the University saw the benefits of this strategy with the highest number of applications ever. That trend continues as applications to attend HSU are up 3.95% over last year. The University comfortably accommodates 2,400 to 2,500 students and wants to stay within that population.

"We do not believe that bigger makes for better," says Dr. Bill Ellis, provost of Hardin-Simmons University. "Therefore, we are very intentional in our admissions process. Not everyone who applies to HSU is admitted. Our admissions criteria are based on the quality of the individual applicant. We admit students who are not only academically sound, but who also recognize the value of attending a university such as HSU, where an individual student's achievement and success are the focus of every aspect of his or her education."

The word is out on Hardin-Simmons University as the number of quality students scrambling for a seat for the fall term soared. Freshman applications rose from 1372 in 2006 to 1757 last year. This year, 2,320 prospects applied to the University. The freshman class of 472 climbed from the 465 students who started last year, and the total student enrollment is 2,392 from 2,435 in 2007. Perhaps the biggest indicator of quality is the annual jump in selectivity. Selectivity has tightened to 20% from an already exclusive 26% in 2007, 29% in 2006, 39% in 2005, and 53% in 2004. That means one of every five applicants who apply to HSU get in.

Not only are applications at an all-time high, the Honors Program is thriving. Retention is at 91% in the prestigious program. "It's a great time to be at Hardin-Simmons," says Dr. Shane Davidson, vice president of enrollment management, "The University continues to flourish in a nurturing, Christian environment. HSU is committed to quality--quality faculty, quality facilities, and quality students. Students continue to choose HSU for its academic rigor, athletic excellence, and value added experience. HSU's guaranteed tuition commitment continues to help families budget and finance their HSU education with no hidden costs (or fees). Students that choose HSU understand their investment. They aren't impressed by gimmicks and giveaways--they relish the challenge of getting in and the return they receive when they graduate."

Managed growth is now the norm at HSU. Dr. Ellis sums it up this way, "Top quality students elevate the classroom experience for everyone--both students and faculty. Our selectivity gives us the opportunity to control quality with measured growth while providing an exceptional learning experience. Balancing enrollment with our drive for quality students is a delicate process, but we've shown that it works, and it flows naturally into our mission to provide the best possible education enlightened by Christian faith and values."