As you go through the process of evaluating your current programs and new opportunities, you will need to decide on the best approach for your institution. You know the consequences poor decisions can create, but how do you do it better?
Declining enrollment is an issue facing community colleges across the country. According to data provided by the National Student Clearinghouse, total enrollment in associate programs fell 10% year-over-year. We took a closer look at the enrollment data, both geographically and programmatically, and it turns out, it’s not all bad news.
Having internal and external data is critical when evaluating your academic programs. If your institution looks at external market data for your academic programs, you are halfway there. But to complete a sound program evaluation, you also need to look inward at program economics and academic outcomes.
While large programs continue to be popular among bachelor’s students, some smaller programs are experiencing healthy gains in the number of students enrolled. We analyzed Spring 2021 to 2022 enrollment data to identify bachelor’s programs with the largest gains in the number of students enrolled and those with the largest declines.
In Spring 2022, three of the 10 bachelor’s programs with the fastest-growing enrollment were in the arts. Cinematography is highlighted as one of the fastest-growing visual and performing arts programs in enrollment for both the bachelor’s and master’s award levels.
Learn what is happening behind the scenes.
Adding a new sport could help institution’s boost enrollment in specific programs. The academic programs that benefit from athletic enrollment vary by sport, so the right sport may be able to increase enrollment in a specific program or discipline.
We took a deeper look, first at major sports in Division 1, then at “Other Sports.”
Spring enrollment for visual and performing arts made a comeback this year, but the recovery and growth for bachelor’s and master’s programs look different. Here are the top ten programs for each.
According to the National Student Clearinghouse data, enrollment in master’s programs has grown year-over-year, but on closer examination, the data is a bit more nuanced. Enrollment trends vary across programs, so it is important to look beyond national trends and dig into data specific to your market.
Higher education is becoming more competitive, but there are still many opportunities for growth – if you know how to look for them. One secret is distinguishing between competition, which is ubiquitous, and market saturation, which is rare.
Stop navigating enrollment droughts and budget drains in the dark. Join Gray DI’s free Master Class Series and unleash data-informed insights to transform your academic portfolio.
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