As the fall quarter begins at Ohio University Southern today, there will be new faces on campus -- lots of new faces.

The campus has reported tremendous enrollment numbers that will probably even increase as more students continue to enroll during the first two weeks of classes.

As of late last week, total enrollment was up by 20 percent with an even higher percentage of new students enrolled. More than 615 new students are registered for classes, this is 129 more than the same time last year.

"We know we will have a banner year," said Dr. Kim Keffer, director of enrollment services. "I think a anytime you get a 24-percent increase in new students it is phenomenal."

Overall, the campus has shown an 18-percent increase in previously enrolled students.

Keffer attributes the growth to several factors, including the new nursing program, building the computer technology program, the economy and just a testament to OUS's growth.

"We are less expensive, but students can get a top-quality education and still live at home," she said.

These numbers may still increase because the talented and gifted high school students have not yet been registered and school had already started by this time last year.

The university conducted several orientation programs throughout the summer that had better-than-expected attendance.