The Pulse of Higher Ed

Perspectives on Online and Professional Education
from UPCEA’s Research and Consulting Experts

[Snap Poll Results] Retention and Persistence

It is clear that higher education will face a number of challenges over the next decade as the pandemic has accelerated a number of technological, societal and economic trends. Further complicating the matters for institutions of higher education in the U.S. is the fact that demographic trends show an upcoming decade of declining traditional students. Higher education has started to diversify its risk by offering more online programs over the past decade and now has started down the path of alternative or new credentialing. As part of this movement, many institutions are exploring stackable credentials and how they fit into occupational pathways. Some have also integrating noncredit or professional programs into their educational portfolios to support a number of these occupational pathway strategies.

 

With this transformation, operating metrics are certain to change. Many institutions track completion for degree seekers based on what percentage graduate, as well as what percentage graduate over a specific time period, such as four-year or six-year graduation rates. When servicing part-time learners, such as those enrolled a fully online degree program, graduation rates could be measured in longer time periods, such as 7, 8, or even 9 years or more[1].

 

However, with the movement toward alternative or new credentials, will part-time learners or full-time learners in fully online programs extend their timeframes? Will they feel the same urgency to finish a degree when earning certificates or badges may immediately help them with their career goals? A recent UPCEA snap poll of 66 institutions taken in June shows that just under two-thirds of institutions track persistence or retention of fully online students. They use a number of metrics including % of cohort still enrolled (64%) fall-to-fall or spring-to-spring, % of cohort still enrolled term-to-term (55%), % of cohort still enrolled in the calendar year (32%), individual course completion (32%) and other metrics. Professional, continuing and online (PCO) units are, however, more focused short-term metrics, as 91% rate new student recruiting as extremely important compared to 64% saying student persistence/retention/completion were extremely important. 

 

In the new economy, with more educational alternatives, the classic measurement that is based off retention or persistence toward a degree or completion of a degree is likely to be convoluted due to the rise of alternative or new credentials. We need to be prepared to measure this and report progress correctly. It is likely that classic measures of retention and completion may paint what appears to be a decline or drop in performance, when in reality, the news may be good in that they are reconnecting to the institution and the economy through new credentialing opportunities. For more information, see the full results of the snap poll here.

 

[1] IPEDs Graduation Rates, Publication No. 2017046, December 2016.

 

 

Learn more about UPCEA's expert consultants

Do you need help with your PCO unit or campus? We can help. Contact UPCEA Research and Consulting for a brief consult. Email [email protected] or call us at 202-659-3130.

Trusted by the nation's top colleges and universities, UPCEA Research and Consulting provides the best value in the industry today. UPCEA's industry experts have years of experience in Online and Professional Continuing education - put them to work for you!

UPCEA Research and Consulting offers a variety of custom research and consulting options through an outcomes-focused pricing model. Find the option(s) that best suit your institution.

Learn more about UPCEA Research & Consulting


The UPCEA Difference

Unmatched Experience: For more than 100 years, UPCEA consultants have exclusively served the needs of online and professional continuing education programs. UPCEA consultants leverage their extensive industry expertise to expedite solutions, anticipate upcoming shifts, and offer distinct best practices, effectively aiding clients in achieving their goals.

Cost Effectiveness: As a nonprofit, member-serving organization, we provide unmatched value, allowing you to maximize limited research and consulting budgets.

Action in Motion: Our cadre of experienced, skilled authorities and expert practitioners propels you forward, translating research and consulting into impactful implementation, a distinctive hallmark of UPCEA. Our team of current and former institutional leaders will support you, turning research and consulting into action.

Mission Alignment: Like you, our mission is to enhance and expand educational opportunities and outcomes for adult and other non-traditional learners. We share your values and work in partnership with you to advance access and excellence in education.

Other UPCEA Updates + Blogs

Results of Global Lifelong Learning Study Released

UPCEA supported the Universities Association for Lifelong Learning (UALL)’s comprehensive global study. WASHINGTON (June 18, 2025) – UPCEA, the online and professional education association, today announced the release of an international study, “Making lifelong learning central to university strategy,” conducted by the Universities Association for Lifelong Learning (UALL) and CarringtonCrisp.  UPCEA (alongside EUCEN) is proud…

Read More

New Book Offers Strategic Blueprint for the Decade of the Chief Online Learning Officer

UPCEA and Routledge Publish Landmark Guide to Elevating Online Education Leadership WASHINGTON (June 17, 2025) – UPCEA, the online and professional education association, proudly announces the release of The Chief Online Learning Officers’ Guidebook: A Framework for Strategy and Practice in Higher Education (co-published with Routledge). This essential new volume, co-edited by two of the…

Read More

Navigating Political Headwinds: Online and Professional Continuing Education Units Support of International Enrollment Efforts

Colleges and universities committed to high-quality teaching and research are navigating a growing set of challenges in attracting and supporting international students. The presence of international students on our U.S. campuses enriches the academic environment, fosters global perspectives, and enhances the cultural competency of the campus communities. These learners often pursue STEM disciplines, contributing significantly…

Read More

Celebrating the life of Dr. Pamela Wimbush

It is with a heavy heart that we must inform you of the passing of one of our own. Dr. Pamela Wimbush, a friend, mentor, colleague, and member of the UPCEA’s Board of Directors passed away Tuesday. She will be missed, most acutely by her family and the dear friends she has all over the…

Read More

International-Student Crackdown Escalates; UPCEA Joins Opposition to Broad Changes | Policy Matters (May 2025)

Major Updates International-Student Crackdown Escalates | UPCEA Joins Opposition to Broad Changes After weeks of public sparring, the Department of Homeland Security formally revoked Harvard’s authority to host F-1 and J-1 students on May 22, citing non-compliance with new federal demands around campus protests and DEI programs. More than 6,800 students, about a quarter of Harvard’s…

Read More

Why Credential Terminology Matters in Higher Education and Workforce Development

In the fast-evolving landscape of higher education and workforce alignment, non-degree credentials are surging in popularity. This trend is largely a result of baccalaureate degrees that are not adapting quickly to address more immediate market needs, coupled with a skepticism about the value of the degree. In place of bachelor’s degrees, students are seeking more…

Read More

The Nation's Top Universities Choose UPCEA Research and Consulting

Informed decisions. Ideas that work. The data you need. Trusted by the top universities in the nation.