Bermuda College’s enrolment has increased for the third consecutive year, the institution said today.

A total of 616 students were recorded in its autumn 2026 Census Day Report — news welcomed by David Sam, the college’s president.

The number represents an increase of 24 students, or 4.1 per cent, from 592 in autumn 2025.

The latest figures remain below earlier levels, including the 687 students recorded in autumn 2020, but show three successive annual increases, including from 552 in autumn 2023 and 565 in 2024.

Dr Sam noted that the figures reflected collective work taking place across the college.

He said: “These results are encouraging because they show sustained progress over three consecutive years,

“That progress belongs to the people across Bermuda College.

“Our faculty, staff and every employee play a part in supporting our students and strengthening the college, and I want to thank them for the commitment and hard work that sits behind these figures.

“We also recognise that there is more work to do.

“Enrolment remains below earlier levels and we must continue building on the progress we have made. But the direction is clear. Bermuda College is absolutely on the right path.”

The census also shows growth across several programme areas.

Arts and science remained the college’s largest programme area with 223 students, up from 221 in autumn 2025, while business increased from 154 to 162 students.

Allied health recorded the largest increase, rising by 20 students from 42 to 62, an increase of 48 per cent. The preliminary report said that was the highest allied health enrolment since the area began in autumn 2020.

Together, nursing and allied health account for 15 per cent of programme students, the highest proportion recorded in the ten-year period covered by the report.

Nursing remained unchanged at 24 students.

However, hospitality enrolment was at 30, down from 40 a year earlier.

The figures also showed increased participation in professional and continuing education through the Athora Division of Professional and Career Education.

Apace recorded 522 participants in spring 2026, compared with 349 in spring 2025 — an increase of 50 per cent and the highest spring participation figure since 2021.

Nasir Wade, the chairman of the Bermuda College board of governors, said the results reflected sustained work across the institution.

He added: “The board recognises the considerable effort behind this progress.

“Faculty, staff and employees across Bermuda College have worked hard to support students and strengthen the institution, and they deserve our recognition and thanks.

“Dr Sam has provided focused and determined leadership as the college continues this work.

“These results are encouraging, and the board will continue to support his leadership and the college team as they build on the progress that has been made.”

Dr Sam added: “We cannot be complacent.

“Our responsibility now is to keep moving forward, strengthen the areas that are growing, address the areas where further work is needed and continue creating opportunities that meet the needs of our students and Bermuda.

“The progress is significant, but our focus remains firmly on what comes next.”