Spoiler alert: Traditional students are no longer the majority in higher education. Today’s student body is older and busier. Meeting their needs will require increased collaboration between often disparate departments.
According to recent figures, only one-quarter of college attendees are what we would call “traditional students.” Most students in higher education today have full-time jobs, families or other characteristics that make them part of the new “post-traditional” majority who attend school online or part time. While overall postsecondary enrollment drops, online enrollments continue to grow, as do enrollments by students over age 25 and those working full time.
Along with the shifting demographics come shifting student support needs. In order to ensure the success of modern college students, three administrative groups in particular must join forces.
Forge a united front with common goals
So, who can address the post-traditional shift in student support needs?
The head of online, continuing and professional education (OCPE), the chief student affairs officer (CSAO), and the chief information officer (CIO) hold the key to post-traditional student success. Collectively, these three individuals and their organizations possess the understanding of modern student challenges, student support pedagogy and technology required to make college attainment a reality for more working adults.
They must begin by forging a common understanding of what success looks like for today’s college students. For many, the path may not involve a straight shot of four years and accumulation of 120 credits.
