Overview - Increase Enrollment and Student Success

Increase the number of students taking advantage of the educational opportunities at Indiana State University, and assist all those attending to realize their educational goals.

Original Goal One Planning Document

 

How is Indiana State doing to date?

Enrollment goal surpassed!

The original plan called for enrolling 12,000 full-time students by fall 2014. That goal was surpassed two years early with 12,114 students on the roster in fall 2012—the largest number since 1993. More than half are first-generation college students and 76 percent are from Indiana. Enrollment continued to grow in 2013 reaching the highest level in more than 40 years. In response to this success, the goal for 2017 has been increased to 14,000 students.

Indiana State has clearly become a destination for students from Indiana and beyond seeking a quality education and unique experiences.

 

Indiana State University’s success hinges on much more than increasing student numbers. Goal 1 is also designed to help students achieve their academic and professional aspirations. The Pathway to Success includes a number of new programs designed to improve student success, including:

  • University College. The University College supports first-year students through the promotion of high quality advising and instruction and by collaboration with campus units responsible for student success. The college works to instill in first-year students a sense of personal responsibility for their academic success, and promotes professional excellence and accountability on the part of staff, faculty and administrators.
  • Sycamore Express. This new website launched in 2011. It is packed with information that provides Indiana State students one-stop answers and assistance on everything from class schedules and financial advice to where to eat.
  • MAP-Works. This nationwide tool assesses student preparedness. Studies show that MAP-Works’ participants have a retention rate 4 percent higher than other students.
  • Co-Curricular Record. This service provides a verified, documented history of our students’ University-related achievements outside the classroom. When paired with a student’s transcripts, the co-curricular record provides prospective employers with a well-rounded picture of the student’s activities, interests and motivations—and gives the student a competitive edge.
  • The Sycamore Graduation Guarantee. One of the best ways to keep college affordable is to have students graduate on time. In 2012, Indiana State launched the Sycamore Graduation Guarantee ensuring that eligible students will be able to complete a bachelor’s degree within four years. If not, the students will be able to take any remaining courses needed to graduate tuition free. The agreement defines the responsibilities the student and the university must meet to ensure on-time graduation. The Graduation Guarantee is part of Indiana State’s commitment to helping Indiana reach its goal of increasing degree attainment among its residents.