STOCKTON — The new academic year at University of the Pacific is making history with a record-setting enrollment of 6,755 students across three campuses—the largest student population in the 172-year history of California’s first university.

The significant increase is fueled by strong demand for graduate programs and growing numbers of international students, who now make up nearly 13% of the student population.

The previous high for overall enrollment was 6,717 students set in 2010. Total enrollment is up 7.6 percent from last year and 11.4 percent over the past two years.

Pacific’s record student population comes against a backdrop in which many U.S. colleges and universities nationwide have lost enrollment in recent years.

“Our fast-growing student population reflects the power, value and attraction of a Pacific education, which offers a wide array of majors and degree programs delivered by dedicated, caring faculty in small, personalized learning environments on three unique campuses across Northern California,” said Pacific President Christopher Callahan. “We are delighted to welcome all our new students to this vibrant community of scholars.”

Pacific saw a dramatic increase in international students. There are 872 international students enrolled at Pacific, a 30% increase from last year. They now represent 12.9 percent of the overall student population. This fall Pacific has students from 67 countries across six continents and from 46 states.

The Eberhardt School of Business has 657 students this fall, the highest enrollment in its history. The School of Engineering and Computer Science also has its highest enrollment at 891 students.

“An Eberhardt School education is a great example of what makes a Pacific education life-changing for our students and alumni,” said interim Dean Lewis Gale. “Our business students learn from inspiring faculty in small classrooms and apply their knowledge in real-life settings.