Oregon Institute of Technology is betting big on one-on-one student coaching as a strategy to better serve its diverse population of career-focused learners, many of whom juggle work, family, and financial responsibilities while pursuing their education.
The expansion comes as Oregon Tech serves a student body that reflects many of the demographic trends reshaping higher education nationwide. Nearly one-third of the university's 5,300 students take at least one class online, while 15% study fully online. Many are first-generation college students, working adults, transfer students, or military-affiliated learners seeking to advance their careers in STEM fields.
"Given the range of work, family, and financial commitments most students are juggling today, it's not enough to simply open the door," said Ruth Claire Black, dean of online learning and global engagement at Oregon Tech. "We need to actively walk alongside students as they navigate their journey."
Since launching the partnership in 2023, Oregon Tech has deployed success coaching throughout the student lifecycle, from helping learners choose the right academic program to building plans for balancing education with other life responsibilities. The initiative initially focused on re-engaging students who had stopped out, but has since expanded to include proactive coaching for first-time students.
The university's approach addresses a significant challenge in Oregon, where nearly 500,000 residents have some college credit but no degree. This population of "stopped-out" learners represents both a challenge and opportunity for institutions working to meet the state's 40-40-20 goal, which aims to ensure all young adult Oregonians attain at least a high school diploma and ideally a postsecondary credential by its target date.
Greg Stringer, associate vice provost for strategic enrollment management and retention, said that the coaching program reflects Oregon Tech's mission to serve students where they are.
