Student success remains a key initiative at almost every institution and is especially important in today’s higher education climate. It’s fitting, then, that this week’s issue looks at Inside Higher Ed’s inaugural survey of student success leaders to see how we’re doing. Afterward, we’ll look at innovative programs designed to ease the financial squeeze for middle-income families trying to afford tuition before closing with an article about the global rise of microcredential programs.   

After reading today’s issue, use the comments section to let us know if you think your institution appropriately prioritizes student success. 

Student Success at Institutions 

From Survey: Student Success Administrators Optimistic | Inside Higher Ed  

According to new research from Inside Higher Ed, student success leaders think their institutions are effectively prioritizing student success efforts, but there is room for improvement.     

Our Thoughts 

Student success is a key priority for institutions and encompasses many different aspects of a student’s experience. The attention paid to mental health and financial wellness in the report was especially refreshing, as success metrics often focus solely on retention and graduation rates. By including these factors, the research encourages us to approach student success holistically and move beyond traditional measures. As noted in the report, it will be increasingly important for institutions to determine how best to collect and analyze these diverse data points to gain a fuller picture of student success.  

Furthermore, the research indicates that students and their families increasingly see themselves as “customers.” Balancing this perspective with educational goals presents a unique challenge for institutions. It’s vital to meet these evolving expectations while also staying committed to their academic missions. Campus leaders should carefully consider their responses to customer-centric requests to help ensure they remain aligned with their core mission.  

Financial Aid for the Middle Class 

From Some colleges aim financial aid at a declining market: students in the middle class | The Hechinger Report  

As middle-income families increasingly feel inflationary pressures, some colleges are offering financial aid to help.    

Our Thoughts 

We know that some of the decreased public confidence in higher education is directly tied to its perceived affordability. Attempting to address this concern for middle-income families—many of whom earn too much to qualify for substantial federal or state aid but too little to comfortably afford tuition—is a promising step. We don’t want college affordability to continue eroding middle-income families’ access to higher education.  

While it’s encouraging to see the institutions named in the article taking meaningful steps to bridge the gap, it’s clear there is still work to be done. We’ve discussed the complexities of tuition pricing numerous times previously in this blog. It is time for postsecondary institutions to begin the process of simplifying their pricing structures. By reducing sticker shock and clarifying actual costs, institutions can help more families make informed decisions. Providing additional transparency fosters increasing trust and accessibility, empowering more students to pursue higher education with confidence. 

Global Rise of Microcredentials 

From A quick look at the global rise of for-credit micro-credentials | University Business  

According to a new report from Coursera, microcredential enrollment is growing worldwide.  

Our Thoughts  

Although not fully supported across higher education in the U.S., it is becoming increasingly clear that microcredentials are growing in significance and driving student engagement, career readiness, and enrollment. As postsecondary education is largely seen as a path to a good job, it is paramount that institutions adjust to market shifts in credentialing to remain competitive. Incorporating stackable microcredentials into existing degree programs can strengthen offerings and provide multiple on- and off-ramps for students pursuing higher education.  

While I’m passionate about higher education, I do find the growth of microcredentials transformative. Not only do they offer an accessible entry point for prospective students, but microcredentials also serve as a bridge to lifelong learning—essential in today’s rapidly changing job market. However, faculty buy-in remains a challenge, highlighting that, while students and employers recognize their value, implementation by institutions remains a complex endeavor.