College Student Retention Theory

Catalog description

The purpose of this course is to develop an understanding of how college students make and implement persistence decisions, and how institutional structures, policies, and practices impact those decisions. To accomplish this, we will read and discuss theory and research on college student retention in addition to recruitment, admissions, and enrollment. We will consider who comprises the college-going population and the issues these constituents bring to campus; examine retention theory’s history; and conduct a critical examination of various theories of retention. Throughout the course, students will make connections between readings, online discussions, and their experiences in the field of education. The primary focus will be on the role of leadership in creating environments that promote retention for the diverse student populations in higher education today. The course will also introduce students to the enrollment management roles and functions necessary to support the institution’s needs and requirements.