Here are some student centric strategies and initiatives that your private career college might adopt:

 

1. Take some time in your pre-enrollment discussion with a prospective student to discover potential barriers to that student successfully completing their chosen program of study. Work with the student to find solutions and ensure that the student understands attendance policy.
2. Ask prospective students about their vision and dreams during the pre-admission process and ensure that any courses they enroll in reflect those aspirations. If your college does not offer a program to meet a student’s objectives, recommend a college whose programs would be a better match. Such practices will help improve student outcomes and will help build your college’s name and reputation within the community.
3. Screen prospective students to ensure their potential to successfully complete their intended course of study at your college. If academic upgrading is needed, suggest options and help them get started. If aptitude is an issue, suggest an alternative program of study.
4. Implement a merit awards system at your college. We have described two such programs in this section but perhaps you might find that a different approach would work with your student body.
5. Develop a student intervention policy and practice that helps discover the “why” behind tardiness, irregular attendance or low academic performance. Then work with the student to overcome the barrier.
6. Open lines of communication with students who miss class. Phone calls or letters can only help to let the student know that they are missed.
7. Consider implementing a “No Penalty Student Re-Enrollment Guarantee”, whereby a student compelled to withdraw because of other responsibilities can return and continue his or her training without a financial penalty.