The introduction of two novel programs into the state’s community college system that virtually removes the financial barriers to attaining a two-year degree has exceeded expectations.
All 15 community colleges have experienced a marked increase in enrollment — just what these two initiatives were intended to do.
The average increase in community college enrollment from 2023 to 2024 was 14%. At Middlesex Community College, it was 12.2%, while Mount Wachusett Community College saw a 15.5% increase, according to Mass. Department of Higher Education figures, some of which are preliminary estimates…