John Brown University in Siloam Springs reached a record enrollment of 1,423 students this fall, officials announced Thursday (Aug. 21). The private university welcomed 441 new students for the start of orientation on Wednesday (Aug. 20).

The incoming class comprises 374 freshmen, 59 new transfers and eight students returning after one or more semesters away.

According to the release, the incoming class numbers exceeded 435 students for the third consecutive year and accounted for the record enrollment.

"At a time when families are carefully weighing the value of higher education, many are intentionally choosing Christian universities like JBU," said Ryan Ladner, vice president for enrollment management. "They see that JBU offers rigorous academics that equip students for professional success, integrated with spiritual formation. The fact that we've seen record numbers for three years running reflects the trust families place in JBU to prepare their students for both career and calling."

The top five departments that incoming class students enrolled in are business, visual arts, nursing, engineering and teacher education. JBU students represent 34 states and 51 countries. Final enrollment numbers are officially reported after the 11th day of classes.

Founded in 1919, JBU offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and 14 graduate degrees. Top programs include business, nursing, visual arts, engineering, teacher education, psychology, computer science, construction management, graphic design, family and human services, and engineering. Graduate degrees are available in business, counseling and cybersecurity.