What's Happening?
Colleges and universities are increasingly focusing on the use of technology to enhance their continuing education programs. This shift is driven by the demand from today's learners, including working
professionals, returning students, and career changers, who seek flexible, non-traditional educational pathways. These pathways include non-credit programs, microcredentials, and workforce training. Institutions are tasked with creating programs that are easy for students to discover, apply to, and pay for, while also ensuring that these programs can scale efficiently. The session discussed in the article highlights the strategies and technology considerations that institutions are employing to make enrollment experiences seamless and operational workflows manageable. Experts and university practitioners are sharing practical strategies, common pitfalls, and technology considerations to improve the design and delivery of non-degree programs.
Why It's Important?
The focus on technology in continuing education is significant as it addresses the evolving needs of a diverse student population seeking flexible learning options. By streamlining application processes and reducing administrative overhead, institutions can enhance student satisfaction and increase enrollment. This approach not only benefits students by providing more accessible education options but also helps institutions remain competitive in a rapidly changing educational landscape. The ability to efficiently scale programs and integrate technology solutions is crucial for institutions aiming to expand their offerings and reach a broader audience. This development is particularly important for marketing, enrollment, alumni relations, and student affairs staff, as it directly impacts their ability to attract and retain students.
What's Next?
Institutions are likely to continue exploring and implementing technology solutions that support flexible learning pathways. This may involve further integration of program management and enrollment systems to reduce complexity and improve the student experience. As these programs become more visible and strategically important, colleges and universities may also focus on positioning continuing education as a key component of their overall offerings. This could lead to increased collaboration between academic and administrative departments to ensure that continuing education programs align with institutional goals and student needs.
