Coppin State University Sees Enrollment Surge After Tuition Cuts

Under the leadership of President Anthony L. Jenkins, Coppin State University has transformed its enrollment landscape by implementing a unique tuition reduction strategy. Since Jenkins took office in 2020, the historically Black university located on North Avenue in Baltimore has faced significant challenges, including a staggering 44% drop in enrollment over the previous decade.

Instead of raising tuition to generate revenue, Jenkins made the unconventional decision to cut tuition. This move aimed to attract more students in an environment where many colleges are struggling with declining enrollment figures. The results have been remarkable: applications surged from 2,519 in 2021 to an astounding 18,381 in 2025, while total enrollment climbed from 2,101 to 2,790.

A key factor in this growth has been the introduction of the Expand Eagle Nation program, which offers in-state tuition rates to students from over 30 states that do not have historically Black colleges and universities. This initiative has resonated with families concerned about the rising costs of higher education.

Jenkins faced skepticism from his team when he proposed this bold plan, but the urgency of the situation compelled him to pursue it. He argued that nearly 80% of Coppin graduates remain in Maryland, with over half staying in Baltimore, suggesting that attracting these students could benefit the local economy.

The University System of Maryland Board of Regents approved the Expand Eagle Nation initiative in 2023, and since then, Coppin has consistently reported annual enrollment growth of at least 5%. Jenkins anticipates the student body will reach the mid-3,000s this fall.

Marybeth Gasman, a professor at Rutgers University specializing in historically Black colleges, praised the program as a “brilliant move” to recruit students. However, the growing enrollment has also highlighted challenges, such as the need for additional on-campus housing, prompting the construction of a new residence hall.

Coppin State offers the lowest tuition rates for a public four-year institution in Maryland, with in-state tuition at $7,524 and out-of-state rates at $14,726. Many out-of-state students qualify for the in-state rate due to the Expand Eagle Nation program.

To support the influx of new students, Coppin has enhanced its academic resources, including a new academic penthouse in the library featuring tutoring and advising services. This has contributed to a notable increase in the university's retention rate, which improved from 55% in 2020 to a historic high of 71% in 2025.

The university continues to focus on providing comprehensive support to its diverse student body, with nearly 60% receiving Pell Grants and many being first-generation college students. Initiatives such as peer mentoring, financial wellness courses, and summer programs for incoming students are designed to ensure academic success.

Jenkins remains committed to empowering low-income students, stating that Coppin State plays a vital role in elevating families into the middle class and contributing positively to the Baltimore community.

Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).