University of Maryland Global Campus Expands Coaching Initiatives to Enhance Student Support for Online Learners

Enhancing Online Education: UMGC's Innovative Coaching Program

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), recognized as the largest public university in the United States, is on a mission to enhance the educational experience for its nearly 45,000 online learners. In collaboration with the coaching nonprofit InsideTrack, UMGC has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at scaling its student coaching program. This initiative seeks to provide robust, tailored support to adult learners who face unique challenges in balancing work, family, and academic commitments.

A Commitment to Student Success

With a growing population of non-traditional students, UMGC is committed to implementing effective support systems that address the specific needs of its diverse learner base. According to Susan Hawkins-Wilding, the university's Vice President of Student Success, this partnership significantly boosts the university's capacity to deliver personalized guidance essential for modern learners. The new program trains success coaches in evidence-based practices so they are better equipped to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

The university has recently trained almost 200 success coaches who play a pivotal role in supporting students as they navigate the complexities of online education. These coaches are not only trained in academic advisement but also understand the personal and professional hurdles faced by many of UMGC's students. For example, the average age of UMGC students is 31, and a significant majority are juggling full-time work and family responsibilities alongside their studies.

Training for Excellence

Over the past two years, the university has rolled out a comprehensive training program for its coaches and student success leaders. This initiative aims to increase the quality and effectiveness of coaching provided to online students, specifically addressing challenges unique to adult education. Coaches are now equipped with skills that allow them to engage deeply with their students, focusing on more than just academic necessities.

InsideTrack’s coaching model has been proven over two decades to improve student retention and graduation rates. By anchoring training in this evidence-based framework, UMGC has ensured its coaching staff is well-prepared to address various aspects of student life. The partnership has also resulted in a significant increase in coach retention, reducing personnel turnover rates by over 30% since the program's initiation.

Measurable Improvements in Engagement

The effectiveness of the coaching program is already evident, with coaches reporting improved interaction with students. Data shows that as of January 2025, 71.4% of this targeted student population had received proactive support from their coaches within a month. Additionally, a notable 94.2% of students maintained an up-to-date academic plan, underscoring the program’s success in ensuring students feel guided and supported.

Positive Outcomes for Students

The encouraging results of UMGC’s successful coaching initiative do not stop at staff retention. During Fall 2024, the university observed a 4% increase in course success rates compared to previous years, along with a 2.1% rise in fall-to-spring reenrollment rates. Moreover, retention rates for first-year students improved by 2%, confirming the program's efficacy in bolstering student success.

UMGC’s student demographic reflects the typical profile of adult learners—79% are employed full-time, while over half belong to underrepresented groups. Additionally, the university caters to a significant number of military-affiliated students, reinforcing its role as a leader in serving diverse educational needs.

Ruth Bauer, the president of InsideTrack, articulated the importance of academic coaching, particularly in an unpredictable economic landscape. She emphasized that beyond their educational pursuits, students also need emotional and strategic support to navigate challenges effectively, making coaching a vital resource.

Conclusion

The University of Maryland Global Campus continues to demonstrate its understanding of the contemporary educational landscape, particularly for adult learners engaged in online studies. By investing in comprehensive training for its coaching staff, UMGC ensures that it can provide personalized, scalable support to its ever-expanding student population. Such initiatives position the university as a model for higher education institutions aiming to promote student success through tailored Student Coaching Strategies.

For more information about UMGC and its commitment to student support, visit umgc.edu.