Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | March 26th, 2025

Proven Strategies to Attract and Retain Non-Traditional Students in Higher Education

As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, non-traditional students—including adult learners, career-changers, and part-time students—are becoming a critical focus for institutions. These students bring diverse experiences, clear goals, and a strong desire for programs that fit their unique needs.
To attract and retain this demographic, institutions must implement strategies that prioritize flexibility, career-focused messaging, and personalized support. Below are key approaches to successfully engaging today’s non-traditional learners.

Offer Flexible Program Structures

Non-traditional students often juggle work, family, and other responsibilities alongside their studies. Providing flexible learning options can significantly impact their decision to enroll and persist.

Online and Hybrid Programs: A combination of online and in-person learning allows students to tailor their education to their schedules.
Asynchronous Learning: Recorded lectures and self-paced modules enable students to learn on their terms.
Accelerated Paths: Condensed courses and stackable credentials allow students to earn valuable qualifications faster without sacrificing quality.

Craft Marketing Messages That Highlight ROI

Non-traditional students are not just seeking education—they want clear outcomes. Your marketing efforts should emphasize how your institution can help them achieve career growth and personal success.

Focus on Career Advancement: Use testimonials and data to showcase how graduates have secured promotions, career shifts, or salary increases.
Cost and Value Transparency: Provide a clear breakdown of tuition costs, financial aid options, and expected return on investment.
Personalized Messaging: Implement targeted campaigns that address specific needs, such as career transitions, skill updates, or degree completion.

Address Unique Pain Points

Non-traditional students face challenges that differ from traditional undergraduates. Recognizing and addressing these challenges fosters trust and engagement.

Support for Life Transitions: Career changers may need help translating prior experience into new opportunities. Career counseling and skill alignment workshops can bridge that gap.
Accessible Resources: Ensure easy access to academic advising, financial aid assistance, and tutoring services to remove barriers for busy students.
Community and Belonging: Create opportunities for non-traditional students to connect with peers through online forums, networking events, or dedicated student organizations.

GPRS: Helping Institutions Empower Non-Traditional Learners

Non-traditional students are an essential and growing segment of higher education. By offering flexibility, career-focused outcomes, and targeted support, institutions can foster lasting relationships with this motivated audience.
At GPRS, we help institutions attract and retain non-traditional students through tailored strategies. From crafting value-driven marketing campaigns to implementing flexible learning solutions, we understand what it takes to increase engagement and enrollment.

Want to boost non-traditional student enrollment? Contact GPRS today to discover how we can help your institution attract, support, and retain non-traditional learners for long-term success.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | March 11th, 2025

Digital Marketing Strategies That Drive Enrollment in 2025

Digital marketing is no longer just a supporting tool for higher education — it’s the driving force behind enrollment success. Students today expect more than just information; they want experiences that resonate, inspire, and guide them toward their goals. To meet these expectations, institutions must embrace innovative strategies that align with rapidly shifting digital behaviors.

Here are the top strategies shaping enrollment marketing in 2025 and how you can leverage them to attract and engage prospective students.

Short-Form Video: Capturing Attention, Building Trust

In a world where scrolling is endless and attention spans are short, short-form video has become the ultimate engagement tool. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are dominating student engagement because they deliver content in a way that feels immediate and authentic.

Student-Led Stories: Prospective students trust their peers. Highlight authentic, student-created content that showcases campus life, study tips, or even fun traditions.
Quick, Value-Packed Clips: Short videos explaining how to apply, meet deadlines, or access financial aid can remove barriers and drive action.
Interactive Moments: Use polls, challenges, or “Ask Me Anything” sessions to build a two-way connection with your audience.

Emerging Ad Formats: Think Beyond the Basics

Traditional digital ads still have value, but reaching students in 2025 means tapping into emerging platforms and ad formats that speak their language.

Diversified Platforms: While Instagram and Facebook remain relevant, platforms like TikTok Ads, Spotify, and even Reddit offer fresh opportunities to engage new audiences.
Interactive and Immersive Ads: Carousel ads, 360-degree experiences, and shoppable formats make your programs stand out in a crowded feed.
Smarter Targeting: With advancements in analytics, you can zero in on high-potential prospects based on their goals, browsing behaviors, or even predicted interests.

Mobile-First Marketing: Meeting Students Where They Are

For most prospective students, their mobile device isn’t just a tool — it’s their lifeline. If your digital presence isn’t designed with mobile-first engagement in mind, you risk losing leads before they even get to know your institution.

Speed is Everything: Ensure your website and landing pages load quickly on mobile devices. Delays can mean drop-offs.
Simplify Navigation: A clutter-free, mobile-optimized site that offers clear pathways to essential information (like programs, tuition, and application steps) is key.
Effective CTAs: Use bold, easy-to-click calls-to-action like “Apply Now,” “Request Info,” or “Schedule a Virtual Tour” to keep engagement high.

The Competitive Edge: GPRS and Digital Marketing

At GPRS, we understand that keeping up with digital trends can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. Our expertise helps institutions create meaningful, measurable connections with prospective students.

Whether you’re looking to amplify your reach on emerging platforms or optimize your current strategies, GPRS can develop a tailored plan that drives enrollment and sets your institution apart in 2025.

Digital marketing in 2025 is all about innovation, authenticity, and connection. By embracing these strategies, your institution can meet students where they are and lead them toward where they want to go. Ready to take your digital marketing to the next level? Contact GPRS today to create a strategy that works for you.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | February 27th, 2025

Nurturing Gen Z and Gen Alpha: Adapting Communications for Tomorrow’s Students

As the landscape of higher education evolves, so does the audience we aim to connect with. Today, we’re no longer just speaking to millennials. We’re engaging with Gen Z and, on the horizon, Gen Alpha. These digitally native, socially conscious, and ever-curious generations require us to rethink our strategies, platforms, and messaging to create meaningful connections that inspire action.
So how do we meet them where they are and deliver what they value?

Platforms and Content That Speak Their Language

Gen Z and Gen Alpha have grown up with endless access to digital tools and platforms. They’re not just using these tools—they’re shaping them. To reach these audiences, you need to understand their preferences:

Short-form Video Rules: TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts aren’t just trends—they’re essential. Bite-sized, visually engaging content captures attention and drives engagement.
Interactive Experiences: Polls, quizzes, and interactive Instagram Stories are perfect tools to spark curiosity and involvement. These generations value active participation over passive consumption.
Searchable Social Content: Platforms like YouTube and TikTok are now being used as search engines. Content that answers questions or provides value will naturally rise to the top.

Authenticity and Peer-Generated Content: The Keys to Connection

If there’s one thing Gen Z and Gen Alpha demand, it’s authenticity. These generations have a radar for anything disingenuous and are more likely to trust real people over polished advertising.

Peer Recommendations: Student testimonials, campus ambassadors, and alumni success stories resonate more than traditional ads. Make sure these stories are authentic, diverse, and relatable.
Behind-the-Scenes Content: Share glimpses of life on campus, highlights from events, or unscripted moments. Showing your institution’s personality makes it easier for prospective students to feel a genuine connection.

Building Trust Through Value-Driven Messaging

Both Gen Z and Gen Alpha are motivated by values. They care about making a difference and seek out institutions that align with their beliefs.

Showcase Impact: Highlight ways your institution is addressing global challenges, fostering innovation, or creating positive change.
Speak to Aspirations: Appeal to their desire for growth, leadership, and purpose. How can your programs help them become the changemakers of tomorrow?
Transparency Is Non-Negotiable: Be clear about costs, outcomes, and opportunities. Honest communication builds trust and reduces skepticism.

How GPRS Can Help

Navigating the nuances of generational marketing can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. At GPRS, we specialize in creating strategies that not only speak to today’s students but anticipate the needs of tomorrows. From crafting authentic campaigns to leveraging the right platforms, we’ll help you build trust, drive engagement, and adapt for the future.
As Gen Alpha begins to enter the higher education conversation, staying ahead of trends is more important than ever. Let’s build a plan that resonates with the next generation of leaders—together.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | February 18th, 2025

Building a Data-Driven Enrollment Strategy

In today’s competitive higher education landscape, data has become the cornerstone of successful enrollment strategies. By harnessing analytics effectively, institutions can optimize their admissions funnel, enhance student recruitment, and improve overall return on investment (ROI). Here’s how a data-driven approach can transform enrollment marketing in 2025.

Metrics That Matter Most in Enrollment

To build an effective data-driven enrollment strategy, it’s essential to focus on the metrics that provide actionable insights. These include:

Application Conversion Rates: Measure how many inquiries convert into completed applications and, ultimately, enrollments.
Lead Response Times: Track how quickly your team engages with prospective students after their initial inquiry.
Yield Rates: Monitor the percentage of admitted students who choose to enroll.
Marketing Channel Performance: Evaluate which channels (e.g., email, social media, digital ads) generate the most qualified leads.
Student Retention Indicators: Use early data on engagement and satisfaction to predict retention rates and identify areas for improvement.

Understanding and monitoring these key metrics allows institutions to allocate resources more effectively and identify areas of opportunity.

Leveraging Predictive Analytics to Identify and Target Best-Fit Students

Predictive analytics is revolutionizing how institutions approach student recruitment. By analyzing historical and real-time data, predictive models can:

Identify High-Potential Prospects: Pinpoint students most likely to apply and enroll based on demographics, behaviors, and interests.
Tailor Messaging: Create personalized campaigns that resonate with specific segments of your audience.
Optimize Recruitment Efforts: Focus your resources on prospects who align with your institution’s mission and goals.

For example, predictive analytics can help identify students who are likely to struggle with the application process, enabling admissions teams to provide targeted support and improve completion rates.

Tools and Techniques to Improve ROI on Marketing Efforts

A data-driven strategy isn’t just about collecting information—it’s about using it effectively. Key tools and techniques include:

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Use CRMs to track interactions, segment leads, and automate follow-ups.
A/B Testing: Test different messages, designs, and calls to action to determine what resonates most with your audience.
Attribution Modeling: Understand which touchpoints contribute most to conversions, ensuring your marketing spend is directed toward high-performing channels.
Dashboards and Reporting Tools: Create real-time dashboards to monitor campaign performance and make data-informed decisions quickly.

These tools empower institutions to maximize ROI by focusing on strategies and channels that yield the best results.

How GPRS Can Help

At GPRS, we understand that building a data-driven enrollment strategy requires both expertise and the right tools. Our team offers comprehensive solutions to help institutions leverage analytics effectively, including:

Custom Data Analysis: We provide detailed insights into your enrollment funnel, helping you identify bottlenecks and opportunities.
Predictive Modeling Support: Our experts guide you in implementing predictive analytics to target best-fit students and improve conversion rates.
Campaign Optimization: We help refine your marketing strategies to ensure every dollar spent delivers maximum impact.

By partnering with GPRS, your institution can unlock the full potential of data to enhance recruitment, boost yield rates, and achieve enrollment goals.

Take the first step toward a data-driven future. Contact GPRS today to learn how we can help you transform your enrollment strategy and drive meaningful results.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | January 30th, 2025

Top Higher Education Marketing Trends to Watch in 2025

As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, 2025 brings new challenges and opportunities for institutions to connect with prospective students in meaningful ways. To remain competitive and relevant, colleges and universities must stay ahead of the curve by embracing key trends in marketing. Here are the top higher education marketing trends to watch in 2025:

AI-Driven Personalization in Student Engagement

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how institutions interact with prospective students. From AI-powered chatbots that answer questions in real-time to predictive algorithms that tailor communications based on a student’s behavior and interests – personalization has reached new heights.

Why It Matters: Students now expect the same level of personalization they experience with brands in other industries. Customized email campaigns, targeted digital ads, and dynamic website content create a more engaging and seamless journey.

How GPRS Can Help: We can help implement AI tools that enhance personalization and integrate seamlessly into your enrollment strategy. From conversational AI to predictive analytics, we consult on strategies and options to help institutions build connections that convert.

Increased Focus on Micro-Credentials and Alternative Pathways

The demand for micro-credentials, certificates, and alternative learning pathways continues to grow as students prioritize flexible, career-focused education. These offerings appeal to diverse groups, including adult learners and those looking to upskill in rapidly changing industries.

Why It Matters: Institutions that market these programs effectively can tap into a growing audience seeking education that delivers a clear return on investment.

How GPRS Can Help: Our targeted marketing strategies ensure your micro-credentials and alternative program options reach the right audiences. We highlight the unique value of these pathways, aligning messaging with prospective students’ goals and aspirations.

Enhanced Use of Data Analytics for Enrollment Forecasting

Data analytics is no longer optional in higher education marketing. Institutions are using advanced analytics to predict enrollment trends, identify at-risk students, and measure campaign performance in real-time.

Why It Matters: Data-driven decisions enable institutions to allocate resources more effectively, optimize marketing campaigns, and improve student outcomes.

How GPRS Can Help: With years of expertise in enrollment analytics, we provide insights that help institutions refine their strategies. From lead scoring to campaign performance tracking, we ensure your marketing efforts are both efficient and impactful.

Addressing Student Concerns About ROI and Career Readiness

Today’s students are increasingly concerned about the return on investment (ROI) of their education. Questions about affordability, job placement rates, and career readiness are top of mind for prospective students and their families.

Why It Matters: Institutions that proactively address these concerns in their marketing materials build trust and credibility, making them more attractive to discerning students.

How GPRS Can Help: We craft messaging that emphasizes your institution’s career outcomes, alumni success stories, and unique value propositions. Our strategies are designed to resonate with students seeking tangible benefits from their education.

Looking Ahead: Embracing Change in 2025

The higher education sector is at a pivotal moment, where innovation and adaptability are key to success. By leveraging AI-driven personalization, promoting alternative pathways, utilizing data analytics, and addressing ROI concerns, institutions can position themselves for long-term growth.

Contact GPRS today to develop a strategy that drives real results.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | January 14th, 2025

New Year, New Strategy: Back to Basics in 2025

A new year often brings renewed energy, fresh goals, and a clearer mindset. As we step into 2025, we’re still navigating an ever-changing landscape—marked by rapid advancements in technology, shifts in the job market, and evolving expectations in education. Flexibility, creativity, and resilience remain critical.
While much of the world continues to adapt to these changes, one constant remains: the need to educate and empower the next generation to become effective leaders. For recruitment teams, this means going back to the basics and refining strategies to meet today’s challenges head-on.

What Matters Most to Your Target Audience?

Understanding your audience is the cornerstone of any successful strategy. It’s no longer just about who your prospects are but what drives them in 2025. Here’s how to ensure your approach resonates:

Update Your Personas: The pandemic, technological advancements, and societal changes have reshaped how students view their career paths and education. Revisit your prospect personas with current research to reflect today’s job market and student priorities.
Explore Emerging Motivations: For many students, flexibility, hybrid learning options, and clear career ROI have become non-negotiables. Tailor your messaging to these values.
Align with Trends: Highlight how your programs prepare students for the challenges and opportunities ahead in an increasingly complex professional landscape.

Where Is Your Target Audience?

With technology evolving at lightning speed, knowing where and how to reach your audience can feel like aiming at a moving target. Here’s how to stay on top of the trends:

Talk to Current Students: Their insights into digital habits and online preferences are invaluable. From emerging social media platforms to preferred communication tools, they can guide your strategy.
Leverage Data Analytics: Platforms like Google Analytics, Meta’s advertising tools, and TikTok Ads Manager offer robust insights into audience behavior.
Invest in Reputable Advertising Channels: Fraud and misinformation are still concerns, so ensure your media buys are handled through trusted sources.

How to Communicate Effectively in a Crowded Market

In a world of constant digital noise, your message must stand out. Today’s students want clarity, trust, and inspiration. Consider these tips:

Be Transparent and Trustworthy: Authenticity is key. Share real success stories and demonstrate how your programs align with their goals.
Prioritize Value: Focus on how your program offers tangible benefits, from career outcomes to alumni networks.
Inspire Action: Position your messaging around opportunity and growth, showing how education is a step toward achieving their aspirations.

Nurturing Leads with a Personal Touch

Once you’ve attracted your prospective students, it’s essential to guide them through the enrollment journey with care and consistency. Prospects today often require more personalized reassurance than ever before.

Use Your CRM Strategically: Automate routine follow-ups but leave room for personal touches, such as direct outreach from admissions counselors.
Offer Personalized Guidance: Tailor communication based on their specific interests and concerns, leveraging data from their interactions.
Be a Partner in Their Journey: Prospects want to feel supported, so celebrate their progress and remind them of the transformative opportunities your programs provide.

How GPRS Can Support You

Navigating the complexities of recruitment in 2025 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At GPRS, we offer tailored solutions to help you refine your strategy, engage your audience, and hit your enrollment goals. Our expertise includes:

Persona Development: Updating your understanding of prospective students to align with today’s market.
Digital Strategy: Identifying the right platforms and technologies for your campaigns.
Lead Nurturing: Crafting strategies that balance automation with authentic connections.

With GPRS by your side, you can create an enrollment strategy that’s grounded in the “tried and true”, yet dynamic enough to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

Ready to elevate your recruitment efforts in 2025? Contact GPRS today to build a data-driven, student-focused strategy that drives real results.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | December 27th, 2024

Converting Admits to Enrollments: A Guide to Yield Optimization

Getting qualified graduate student applicants to say “yes” after admission can prove challenging. While many institutions focus heavily on attracting applicants, the critical yield phase often receives less strategic attention. With graduate yield rates trending downward nationally, mastering this final stage of the enrollment funnel is more important than ever. Here are some proven strategies to convert admits into enrollments and fill your incoming classes with qualified, engaged students.

Promote Time-Sensitive Scholarship Incentives and Financial Planning

Financial considerations for graduate students during their enrollment decision process can’t be overstated and helping admitted students understand the long-term value proposition of your programs can take your strategy to the next level. Your team can build urgency around enrollment deposit timelines by offering early commitment scholarships and fellowship or assistantship awards with deadlines.

Promote scholarship deadlines through email, social media, and digital marketing assets as soon as possible after they are admitted. This encourages quick decisions while demonstrating financial investment in students’ success – and can outshine your competition’s graduate scholarship offerings.
Proactively reach out to admitted students with individualized financial counseling sessions, payment plan information, and scholarship or fellowship options.

Leverage Current Student and Alumni Stories

Nothing influences prospective students more than peers who’ve already chosen to enroll. Seeing a diverse range of successful alumni and current students can help prospects see themselves at your institution and build a sense of community.

Create a diverse ambassador program where current students and alumni can connect with admitted students via text, email, webinar, or social media.
Further personalize their experience by focusing these connections on shared backgrounds or interests, like pairing admitted students with alumni in the degree program they’ve expressed interest in.

Host Program-Specific Yield Events

Generic admitted student days often fall flat for those at the bottom of the enrollment funnel – especially graduate prospects.

Organize online or in-person program-specific events that dive deep into the student experience, career outcomes, and hands-on program opportunities. Virtual options, especially for busy graduate students, can improve your reach and eliminate on-campus event considerations.
Have faculty share current research projects, let admits sit in on classes, and facilitate networking with current students and alumni through LinkedIn or your website.

Streamline Your Post-Admission Process

Removing friction from the enrollment process, strategically mapping your yield communications calendar, and maintaining steady (but not overwhelming) contact can help you stand out among the competition.

The first 72 hours after admission are the most critical. Create clear checklists of next steps, automate reminders for missing items, and provide easy access to key resources like scholarships and course registration.
Consider investing in an app that can help students manage their enrollment process.

Remember: your competition isn’t just other schools – it’s also the option to defer graduate education entirely. Your yield strategy needs to both differentiate your program and create momentum toward enrollment through a sense of urgency and personalized attention. By implementing these focused yield tactics, you can improve conversion rates while building stronger incoming classes.

Ready to chat about converting admits to enrollments? Let’s talk!

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | December 17th, 2024

Harnessing the Power of Webinars in Graduate Program Recruitment

Webinars have evolved into powerful tools for graduate prospect recruitment. Offering free webinars can create unique opportunities to engage qualified applicants, showcase program offerings, and build meaningful connections – all from the comfort of their homes. By leveraging webinars in graduate program recruitment, your team can amplify organic reach, personalize the admissions experience, and secure the enrollment of your ideal candidates.

Overcoming Geographic Barriers

One of the primary advantages of webinars is their ability to reach prospective students across the country and globe. Webinars provide a convenient platform for graduate program prospects to learn about your programs, interact with faculty, alumni, and current students, and get their questions answered – all without the need for costly and time-consuming campus visits that might interfere with their already busy lives.

Incorporating interactive elements, such as real-time Q&A sessions and breakout discussions, can foster a sense of community, help build relationships with your staff, and make each participant’s unique needs feel seen and heard.

Showcasing Your Programs’ Unique Value Propositions

Offering webinars is an invaluable way to showcase the unique features and value proposition of any of your graduate programs. They can bring your program’s highlights to life, help prospective students see themselves at your institution, and leave your program top-of-mind for attendees.

Make sure to highlight any cutting-edge research in your program, showcase state-of-the-art facilities, and introduce outstanding alumni and renowned faculty members.

Adopting a Strategic Approach

To maximize the impact of webinars in graduate program recruitment while minimizing workload for your team, it’s essential to adopt a simple yet strategic approach.

Start simple: pick one graduate program to headline your webinar recruitment strategy that will serve as your flagship program.
Collaborate with faculty to identify your ideal candidates and their specific pain points, interests, or needs. Tailor the webinar content, format, and marketing assets accordingly, ensuring that it addresses their needs and speaks directly to their aspirations, schedules, and lifestyles.
Leverage email marketing, social media, and other existing digital channels to promote the webinar and drive registration.

Crafting a Worthwhile Webinar Experience

Graduate program candidates are already busy with careers, families, and other responsibilities. Ensuring they register for an engaging and worthwhile webinar experience is crucial to their continued interest and the success of your strategy.

Invest in reliable software and provide clear instructions to participants before, during, and after the webinar.
Encourage their participation through polls, breakout rooms, and Q&A sessions, and be prepared to address any technical issues that may arise.
Most importantly, remember to follow up with attendees after the webinar and offer no-shows a recorded version of the webinar. This continued engagement nurtures relationships, builds relationships, and provides additional resources to keep them engaged.

By harnessing the power of webinars, your team can elevate its recruitment efforts, connect with a wider pool of talented applicants, and contribute to building a diverse, dynamic, and engaged student body.

Let’s chat about how we can help your graduate programs soar to new heights.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | November 30th, 2024

Showcasing ROI: Effective Ways to Communicate the Value of Graduate Degrees

Convincing already-busy graduate program candidates to invest their precious time and hard-earned money into your programs can be an uphill climb. With rising costs of living and a market crowded with MBA programs, candidates are more value-conscious than ever. Communicating your programs’ ROI requires more than just throwing salary statistics around (although they help!). Today’s prospective grad students need a full picture of a program’s value that resonates personally with their goals, values, and lifestyles.

Let’s Talk Numbers

Concrete comparisons can help prospective grad students visualize their financial return. Many programs also forget about non-salary ROI points. Career mobility, program flexibility, and professional networking are huge selling points.

Instead of leading with data points like “Our graduates earn X% more than someone without an MBA,” break it down into tangible terms. For example, “The average salary increase our graduates see within two years could cover their entire tuition investment.”
Highlight non-salary data points like higher job satisfaction, an increase in leadership roles, and more workplace autonomy.
Showcase value, but also be honest about the investment required. Consider creating a comprehensive cost breakdown that includes often-overlooked factors like networking opportunities, career services access, industry partnerships, and alumni association benefits.

Create “Day in the Life” Content

Share video snippets or blog posts featuring recent graduates in their new roles. Show them using the hard skills from your program in real-world situations or feature their network connections. Bonus points if you can highlight graduates who made interesting career pivots or started their dream business. Include a wide array of diverse student backgrounds and life circumstances to showcase your program’s versatility.

Leverage Your Alumni Network

Start a “Success Spotlight” series on your website or social media pages where alumni share their career trajectories post-graduation. Include specific examples of how the degree opened doors, accelerated their progress, or taught them the hard skills they need to be a better leader.

Segment ROI Messaging

Pay careful attention to where your applicants or candidates are in the enrollment cycle. Early-career prospects might care more about salary jumps and promotion potential, while mid-career professionals might be more interested in leadership development, industry transition opportunities, or entrepreneurship.

The best ROI messages for graduate candidates aren’t just about what students will get – it’s helping them see who they will become. Focus on telling a complete, personalized story – both quantitative and qualitative – to prospects, and you’ll develop closer relationships with candidates, help them see themselves at your university, and create a more compelling case for the overall value of a graduate education. ROI messages aren’t just about what students will get – they’re about helping them see who they’ll become.

Let’s chat about how we can help you take your graduate enrollment strategy to the next level.

Insights from the Higher Ed Experts

BY Anthony Campisi | November 14th, 2024

Leveraging Graduate Program Partnerships to Boost Enrollment

Let’s face it – maintaining strong enrollment numbers for graduate programs isn’t getting any easier. Building industry partnerships is one of the most powerful (yet often underutilized) strategies. With these tips, your enrollment team can build relationships with industry experts and turn them into graduate program partnerships that create a steady stream of qualified candidates.

Why Industry Partnerships Matter Now More Than Ever

Companies are constantly looking for ways to develop their talent pool, and your graduate programs need qualified candidates who will succeed in the classroom and advance their careers. Companies get access to a pipeline of talented professionals, and your programs gain credibility and visibility. With the right industry partnerships, everyone wins. Plus, strong partnerships often lead to concrete benefits like tuition reimbursement programs, real-world projects for your candidates’ resumes, and interview opportunities for graduates.

Starting with Your Best Asset: Your Alumni

Your alumni network is an enrollment team’s most valuable asset. Graduates already know the value of the program and currently hold leadership positions within their organizations.

Rather than cold-calling local companies, start by reaching out to your most outstanding alumni through LinkedIn or your alumni office.
Create regular opportunities for networking at events where partnership development is already a natural part of the conversation.

Finding the Right Partners

Not all partnerships are created equal, and that’s okay. Focus your efforts on corporate organizations and nonprofits that make sense for your program.

Look for companies that have hired your graduates in the past, maintain solid professional development budgets, and align with your program’s strengths.
For example: If your programs have a strong finance track, target financial institutions. If your program is known for community service and leadership, connect with successful nonprofits.

Making the Partnership Work for Everyone

The key to successful partnerships is customization. Some companies might want custom executive education programs, while others are more interested in research collaboration. When companies get a customized learning experience for their employees, you’ll build a long-lasting, trusted relationship, while your programs get a guaranteed stream of qualified, motivated candidates.

Turning Partnerships into Enrollment

Once your programs have established partnerships, market them effectively and make them as visible as possible to your graduate program candidates.

Share success stories of corporate participants who’ve advanced in their careers, gained leadership roles, or increased their salaries.
Create content that showcases joint research initiatives and consulting projects. Short video clips are always compelling!

Making it Easy for Partner Employees

The best way to develop an array of industry partnerships is to make the process as easy as possible for both the business organization and the incoming graduate program candidate.

Consider creating a dedicated admissions pathway with application fee waivers, special information sessions or webinars, or expedited admission procedures.

The Long Game for Graduate Program Partnerships

Building strong industry partnerships isn’t a quick fix – it’s a long-term strategy that requires patience and ongoing attention. But it pays off time and time again! Programs that invest in building and maintaining these relationships now will find themselves with a significant competitive advantage. Plus, you’re creating real value for both your students and your corporate partners. Start small, be authentic, and focus on building relationships that make sense for your program. Treat your partners like the valuable allies they are, not just as a source of students. Before you know it, you’ll have created a sustainable pipeline of qualified candidates who are ready to succeed in your program and beyond.

Ready to talk about graduate program enrollment? We’re here to listen!