Source: R. Michael Philson, 785-532-5990, mphilson@k-state.edu
Full report: http://www.k-state.edu/isss/about/statistics.html
News release prepared by: Cheryl May, 785-532-6415, may@k-state.edu
Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009
K-STATE'S DIVERSITY ENHANCED BY RECORD NUMBERS OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
MANHATTAN -- A record number of 1,717 international students joining Kansas State University's student body this fall enhances the campus experience for all, according to R. Michael Philson, associate provost for international programs.
Philson, most recently executive director of international programs at Old Dominion University, joined K-State Aug 1.
"We're excited to welcome a bumper crop of international students this fall," Philson said. "Although the overall student numbers at K-State are remaining relatively stable, an increase in international student enrollment helps maintain campus services and facilities for all students, while at the same time increasing our diversity in very important ways."
Philson said enrollment by international students increased nearly 20 percent in fall 2009 over the prior year. International student enrollment was 1,433 a year ago.
"International students play a vital role on the campus and in the community," Philson said. "In addition to providing an opportunity for local residents and students to learn more about other cultures and societies, including those frequently in the news these days, their presence indicates that increasing numbers of international students are recognizing the excellent programs offered through all of the K-State colleges and departments. International graduate students also play an important role in teaching and research at the university, and the interaction between domestic and international students is a win-win for both groups."
Students from 102 countries are attending K-State this fall. The most foreign students from one country are from China, which has 534 undergraduates and 179 graduate students. The next largest population is from India with 14 undergraduates and 214 graduate students. The most popular major among undergraduate foreign students is general business, with 281 majors. The most popular major for graduate students is computing and information sciences with 87 majors.
In addition, 374 international faculty, scholars and researchers visited K-State in 2008-09. The total includes 16 from Africa, 69 from Europe, 33 from Latin America, 230 from Asia, 18 from Canada, two from Israel, and six from Oceania, which includes Australia and New Zealand.
