Coppin Welcomes More Than 1,500 New Eagles, the Largest Incoming Class in University History
New male undergraduate enrollment climbs from 284 to 403 as Coppin builds on record enrollment momentum
BALTIMORE — Coppin State University is welcoming more than 1,500 new undergraduate students for the Fall 2026 semester, a 47% increase over Fall 2025 and the largest incoming class in university history.
The growth is led by first-year enrollment, which increased from 773 students in Fall 2025 to 1,241 in Fall 2026, a 61% year-over-year increase. Transfer enrollment increased from 254 to 287 students. Coppin also continues to see strong growth among male students, with new male undergraduate enrollment increasing from 284 students in Fall 2025 to 403 in Fall 2026.
“Coppin State is attracting talented and determined students who recognize the value of an affordable, high-quality education,” said Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., president of Coppin State University. “This record class reflects the confidence students and families have in Coppin State and the momentum we have created as Baltimore’s hometown university. These new Eagles are joining a university with a proven track record of developing thought leaders who elevate the workforce and make a lasting impact around the world.”
The Class of 2030 arrives during a period of historic achievement and unprecedented demand for the Coppin State experience. The university received more than 24,000 applications for Fall 2026 while expanding academic and workforce partnerships and investing in facilities, programs, and services that support student success and achievement.
Students in the incoming class represent more than 30 states and the District of Columbia, as well as 12 countries. They will study in career-focused programs spanning nursing, health sciences, education, business, behavioral and social sciences, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Focused on Student Success
Coppin State provides personalized academic advising, academic coaching, mentoring, career preparation, and wellness resources to support students from enrollment through graduation.
First-year students also receive coordinated support through the First-Year Experience and Eagle Achievement Center. These initiatives are designed to strengthen academic achievement and retention while reducing the time required to complete a degree.
“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 at Coppin State University. “The incoming Class of 2030 enters with a strong academic foundation, reflected in an average high school GPA of 3.1, more than 360 new Eagles receiving merit-based academic scholarships, and a growing number of scholars entering with dual enrollment college credits.”
Through its admissions and orientation framework, Coppin State connects students with opportunities, resources, and experiences designed to help them maximize the value of their education and prepare for success after graduation.
“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
47% increase in all new undergraduate enrollment over Fall 2025
New male undergraduate enrollment increased from 284 students in Fall 2025 to 403 in Fall 2026
More than 24,000 applications received
Students representing more than 30 states and the District of Columbia, as well as 12 countries
53% of incoming students are Maryland residents
Average high school GPA of 3.1 among the incoming first-year class
More than 360 first-year students received merit-based academic scholarships
Preparing Students for Growing Careers
Coppin State continues to strengthen academic programs that respond to state, regional, and national workforce needs. Classroom instruction is complemented by research, internships, clinical experiences, and community-based projects that allow students to apply their knowledge and develop skills sought by employers.
“Our record incoming class reflects a focused enrollment strategy centered on access, affordability, and personalized engagement,” said James Stewart, Ph.D., associate vice president for enrollment services. “From a student’s first interaction with Coppin through graduation, we are committed to providing the academic resources, support systems, and campus experiences students need to thrive.”
Investing in the Student Experience
The record incoming class arrives as Coppin continues investing in the future of its campus.
Thurgood Marshall Hall, the university’s new residence hall, is scheduled to open in January 2027. The facility will provide modern residential spaces and additional opportunities for students to live, learn, and build community on campus.
The university is also expanding health care services and experiential learning opportunities through initiatives such as its new dental care clinic and community-focused academic partnerships. These investments reinforce Coppin State’s role as an anchor institution for Baltimore and a source of talented graduates for Maryland.
