What are some effective strategies to increase retention and graduation rates among admitted students?

1 Create a welcoming and inclusive campus culture

One of the first steps to increase retention and graduation rates is to create a welcoming and inclusive campus culture that fosters a sense of belonging and community among admitted students. This can be done by providing orientation and transition programs, mentoring and peer support networks, diversity and equity initiatives, and social and cultural events that celebrate and respect the differences and similarities of students. A welcoming and inclusive campus culture can help students feel valued, connected, and engaged, and reduce the risk of isolation, alienation, and dropout.

2 Offer academic and financial support services

Another key strategy to increase retention and graduation rates is to offer academic and financial support services that address the needs and challenges of admitted students. This can include academic advising and counseling, tutoring and learning centers, early warning and intervention systems, scholarships and grants, financial literacy and aid workshops, and emergency funds and resources. Academic and financial support services can help students overcome academic difficulties, improve their performance and confidence, and alleviate financial stress and barriers that may hinder their progress and completion.

3 Enhance student-faculty interaction and involvement

A third effective strategy to increase retention and graduation rates is to enhance student-faculty interaction and involvement, both inside and outside the classroom. This can involve encouraging faculty to adopt student-centered and active learning methods, providing feedback and guidance, creating opportunities for research and mentoring, and recognizing student achievements and contributions. Student-faculty interaction and involvement can help students develop academic and professional skills, increase their interest and motivation, and build meaningful relationships and networks that can support their retention and graduation.

4 Promote student engagement and leadership

A fourth effective strategy to increase retention and graduation rates is to promote student engagement and leadership, both on and off campus. This can include facilitating student participation and voice in governance and decision-making, supporting student organizations and clubs, offering co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and providing service-learning and civic engagement opportunities. Student engagement and leadership can help students develop personal and social competencies, enhance their sense of identity and purpose, and foster a commitment and responsibility to their education and community.

5 Implement data-driven and collaborative approaches

A fifth effective strategy to increase retention and graduation rates is to implement data-driven and collaborative approaches that monitor, evaluate, and improve the effectiveness of retention and graduation initiatives. This can involve collecting and analyzing data on student characteristics, using evidence-based practices and models, and engaging stakeholders from across the institution and beyond. Data-driven and collaborative approaches can help identify strengths and gaps, align goals and strategies, and ensure accountability and sustainability of retention and graduation improvement.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?