Eastern’s School of Continuing Education reported a 424-student enrollment increase in the past year and is expecting even more students in the future.

The school provides non-traditional students an opportunity to finish their education through a series of affordable classes.

The on and off campus classes help students who want to finish a degree they “left on a shelf” or complete a master’s degree program, said Beth Meek, director of marketing for the school.

In 2005, 3,069 students enrolled in the program. That number increased to 3,493 this year.

The enrolled semester hours in 2005 were 8,536. In 2006, the hours increased to 10,333.

The school for continuing education staff is very excited about the spiked enrollment.

“It’s a real sign of the times,” Meek said. “People want to finish their education and we’re helping them complete it.”

Many factors contributed to the increased enrollment, including the changing social climate. To be able to function in society with the most elbowroom, one needs a good education, Meek said.

The program’s marketing has also played a large factor. Information about the program is offered easily through the Internet and several advertisements, not to mention word-of-mouth.

The program has been moving forward with even more enrollment predicted for the future.

“We’re very hopeful for the future of the program,” Meek said. “All our initiatives have been defined and our target areas have been accomplished.”