East Mississippi Community College reports summer enrollment is up over 30 percent. The college says, as of June 18, a total of 2,292 students were enrolled, and increase of 561 students from the same time last year.

“We’re happy to see so many students taking advantage of summer classes, whether they’re getting a head start on the next academic year, or taking classes for their own personal enrichment,” said EMCC president Dr. Rick Young. "At EMCC, we’re all about knocking down the barriers that stand between people and opportunity. Financial aid is always available, and our district-wide tuition guarantee program begins in the fall."

Of the 2,292 students registered for summer classes so far, 434 are enrolled at the Scooba campus, 54 take classes at the Naval Air Station Meridian, 1,547 are taking classes at EMCC’s Golden Triangle campus in Mayhew, and 257 are registered at the Columbus Air Force Base branch.

EMCC attributes the increase to the level of scheduling options available for students and the low cost.

The second summer term runs from July 7 to Aug. 6; the last day to register is July 6.