Rowan University Introduces Success Coaching for Online Learners to Enhance Enrollment and Retention

Rowan University Launches Success Coaching Program to Support Online Learners

In a significant move aimed at elevating the educational experience for online students, Rowan University has announced the introduction of a personalized coaching program designed to support adult learners in overcoming enrollment barriers. The initiative, launched in partnership with the nonprofit organization InsideTrack, reflects an understanding of the complexities many students face as they balance education with work and family commitments.

Rowan University, recognized by The Chronicle of Higher Education as one of the fastest-growing public doctoral institutions in the nation, serves a diverse population of over 23,000 students. The university’s new three-year plan aims to provide one-on-one success coaching for approximately 5,000 prospective online students annually. This initiative comes at a time when the demand for online and hybrid learning options is surging across the United States.

Darren Wagner, Vice President of Strategic Enrollment at Rowan, emphasized the necessity of rethinking student support strategies. He stated, "To meet the needs of learners, we need to fundamentally rethink how we support students at every stage of their educational journey. Our approach must recognize each student's life context." By creating a flexible and accessible pathway, the program aims to equip students with the essential resources and guidance to achieve their academic and career goals.

The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, especially given the national trend of declining enrollments of first-time, full-time students at traditional colleges. In contrast, Rowan has witnessed an increase in student enrollments, attributed in part to a growing appetite for online learning options. The CHLOE 9 report indicates that not only are more students interested in online programs, but even those enrolled in traditional formats are exploring hybrid options.

The coaching program is designed to support students from their inquiries through to their critical early weeks of study. InsideTrack’s expert coaches will provide tailored assistance, helping students define long-term goals, select appropriate programs, and identify local resources such as financial aid and academic support. The goal is to ensure that individuals are not only able to enroll but are also equipped to persist through the initially challenging phases of their educational journeys.

InsideTrack leverages a research-driven coaching methodology to directly engage with learners, focusing on goal-setting, overcoming obstacles, and aligning educational objectives with career ambitions. This approach allows for a holistic perspective on student success, addressing personal, professional, and financial challenges that may hinder academic progress.

In addition to supporting students, Rowan University is committed to the professional development of its staff to ensure the program’s sustainability. By implementing InsideTrack's Coaching Development Training (CDT), university staff will gain the necessary skills to provide high-quality coaching long after the initial partnership concludes.

Ruth Bauer White, President of InsideTrack, commented, "This is about bridging the gap between potential and support — ensuring that students who opt for an online program are set up for success." The initiative seeks to empower learners from diverse backgrounds, particularly those navigating the complexities of multiple identities as they pursue education alongside other responsibilities.

Rowan University’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities through innovative programs like this positions it as a leader in supporting online learners. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve with the rise of digital learning, initiatives such as this are crucial in promoting accessibility and success for all students. To learn more about the success coaching program at Rowan University, visit www.rowan.edu.