The University of Montana Western is experiencing record-breaking enrollments.

The current estimates show 1,188 full-time equivalent students, the highest since the university began tracking the statistic in 1973 and about a 7.5 percent increase from last year.

UMW Chancellor Richard Storey said the current estimated number of enrolled students is up about five percent from last year at 1,252, the highest fall enrollment at Montana Western since 1927.

"Our steady and healthy rate of growth over the last five years is in accord with our strategic plan and should be sustainable," Storey said. "The record-breaking numbers help demonstrate the university is carving a unique and successful niche in higher education. In a time when all Montana universities are facing increased competition as the number of state high school graduates decline, I believe Montana Western is staying competitive by providing a top-notch undergraduate education at an affordable price."

Montana Western also realized a surge in new transfer students, up about 24.5 percent over last year.