YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown State University is looking beyond enrollment gains as it plans new academic space, expands online programs and uses its R2 research designation to pursue new opportunities.
YSU President Bill Johnson discusses the state of the university and its strategy for continued growth, including efforts to attract students, respond to workforce needs and expand academic programs. Johnson says affordability and the quality of YSU’s education remain central to attracting students, while the university also looks nationally and internationally to broaden its recruitment efforts.
YSU also plans to expand programs where demand exceeds capacity. Johnson says the university turns away qualified students in health and human services because it lacks sufficient laboratory space. The university is developing an expansion plan that could include new construction and additional capacity for nursing, dental hygiene and other health-related programs.
The university is also increasing undergraduate online offerings and exploring additional master’s degree programs to reach students who cannot leave their jobs or other responsibilities to attend classes on campus.
Johnson says YSU’s R2 research designation creates another path for growth by increasing the university’s visibility among government agencies and companies looking for research partners. He points to advanced and additive manufacturing as areas where YSU wants to expand its role in research, workforce development and emerging technologies.