D'Youville University Anticipates Record Freshman Class for Fall 2026

Incoming freshman class up 22 percent as students prepare for August 31 start

D'Youville University is preparing to welcome what is anticipated to be the largest freshman class in university history, with the incoming class currently 22 percent larger than Fall 2025.

The growth continues a period of momentum at D'Youville as the university expands academic opportunities, invests in the student experience, and strengthens its focus on preparing graduates for successful careers.

"Students and families are looking closely at the value of a college education and what that investment will mean for their future," said Dr. Lorrie Clemo, president of D'Youville University. "They want a university where they'll be known and supported, but they also want hands-on experiences and a clear path to a meaningful career. The growth of this incoming class tells us that more students and families are seeing that combination at D'Youville."

The incoming class arrives during a transformative period for the university. Earlier this month, D'Youville welcomed the inaugural class of its College of Osteopathic Medicine, the first osteopathic medical school in Western New York and the region's first new medical school in nearly 200 years. D'Youville is also preparing to open a new Workforce Development Center in Spring 2027, expanding access to short-term, career-focused training that prepares individuals for high-demand healthcare careers while helping regional employers address critical workforce shortages. The university has also continued to expand academic programs and invest in opportunities that connect students directly to their future careers.

D'Youville's growth comes as the university continues to earn recognition for both student outcomes and value. D'Youville is the No. 1 ranked private university in Western New York and is recognized among the nation's top universities for the social mobility of its graduates.

Students joining D'Youville this fall will find a university that combines the personal experience of a smaller campus with significant opportunities. D'Youville offers a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, hands-on learning and clinical experiences, 22 NCAA Division II athletic programs, and a strong record of career outcomes, with 98 percent of graduates employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation.

D'Youville's fall semester begins Monday, August 31.

For more information, visit dyu.edu.

About D’Youville University

D’Youville University is a nationally ranked private university founded in 1908 and headquartered in Buffalo, New York, which offers degrees in the health sciences and business. D’Youville University promotes a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Through transformational educational experiences, students are prepared for growth, career success, and upward mobility. For more information, visit dyu.edu.