Youngstown State University reports enrollment growth and athletic updates

Youngstown State University (YSU) has reported its third consecutive year of headcount enrollment growth, reaching 12,423 students for the fall 2026 term. While the university saw increases in graduate, doctoral, and associate-degree enrollment, the number of first-time undergraduate students decreased by nearly 22% compared to the previous year.

In athletics, the YSU football team experienced mixed results. The Penguins secured a dominant 43-10 victory over Mercyhurst University, led by quarterback Beau Brungard, who accounted for 451 total yards and five touchdowns. However, the team later suffered a 45-14 loss against the University of Kentucky. The football program has seen a surge in student popularity following a successful previous season, including the emergence of dedicated social media fan accounts.

The YSU volleyball team also began its season with a victory against Mercyhurst University, a win that included several program records and marked head coach Riley Jarrett’s 100th collegiate coaching win.