“I’m not sure I can do this!!” We have all been there, and hearing “just keep going” isn’t always helpful. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, the persistence rate measures how many students continue their education at any college for a second year, while the retention rate looks at those who stick with the same college for that second year. While national persistence rates are on the rise, showing that students who started college in the fall of 2022 rose to 76.5 percent—0.8 points higher than in 2021—there are vast differences when it comes to different universities and programs.
The American Council on Education shows that the persistence rate among students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in business is approximately 56.3%. This rate is relatively high compared to some programs but still leaves room for improvement. Persistence and retention can vary widely based on factors like institutional type, student demographics, and enrollment intensity.
What Impacts Persistence?
Students face a range of challenges that can affect their decision to stay in school.
Academic and Personal Struggles
Academic struggles, a lack of engagement between faculty and students, financial pressures, and unmet career expectations all play a part. And then there are the personal circumstances—everything from family responsibilities to health issues—that can make it tough to keep going. HR Hanover Research points out that creating an early-warning system and proper interventions is absolutely crucial, especially early on in the program.
Lack of a Sense of Belonging
A major factor is the sense of belonging. The National Survey of Student Engagement directly correlates a sense of belonging to student persistence. Whether they are on a traditional campus or attending classes online, students need to feel connected to their university community. Without this connection, it is hard for them to stay motivated. Mentorship programs, student clubs, robust career services, opportunities to study abroad, internships, university events, sports on campus, or even participating in virtual group projects can all make a big difference. These experiences help students engage more deeply with their programs and find relevance in what they are learning, which, in turn, boosts their persistence and success.
Lack of Faculty Support
Think about it—when a student doesn’t feel backed by their teachers or classmates, it can really hurt their motivation. Take a first-generation college student, for example. Without someone to help them navigate the academic maze, they might struggle significantly. Addressing this is not difficult; create a supportive environment of care toward students, which can only happen within organizations that care for their employees. Setting up mentorship programs, encouraging peer study groups, and making faculty more accessible can help build a real sense of community. This way, students feel like they belong and are more likely to push through the tough times.
Curriculum Relevance and Flexibility
Let’s talk about how crucial it is to have a business curriculum that keeps up with our fast-changing world. AACSB advocates for building programs for the future of business versus where it is now. Incorporating things like emerging technologies and real-world case studies can make lessons more relatable and engaging for students. Plus, offering flexible learning options, like online and hybrid classes, can really help keep students on track and motivated to persist in their studies. When students see how what they are learning applies to the current business landscape, they are more likely to stick with it.
Impact of Program Design and Delivery
The way business programs are designed and delivered can make a big difference in whether students decide to stay or go. Programs that adapt to different learning styles—think personalized learning paths, flipped classrooms, unit-based courses—can cater to a wider range of students. For example, competency-based education allows students to learn at their own pace, which can be a game-changer for retention. Heather Graves defines it as a focus on what students can do instead of the amount of time they spend in a classroom. When students feel their unique needs are being met, they are more likely to remain engaged and committed to their education.
To increase student persistence in business programs, it is crucial to create engaging curriculums and provide strong support systems that foster a sense of belonging. By focusing on student needs and adapting to business demands, their expectations, and success, educators can create a supportive setting. Ultimately, prioritizing these elements will not only improve retention rates but also shape a more vibrant future for business education.