Examination of Dropout Rates and Causes for Nontraditional Students at One Public Midwestern University

• In Event: Roundtable Session 28
  In Roundtable Session: The Completion Agenda: Finding Different Pathways

Abstract

Using university student database systems and an online survey, this study examined relationships among personal, program, and environmental variables affecting nontraditional students’ program dropout at one public Midwestern university. Results of the logistic regression found that several demographic variables, especially age and academic experiences, contributed to better predicting of nontraditional students’ dropout. Findings from the online survey, implemented to the dropout students only supported that personal (financial and family-related challenges) and academic variables (availability of courses and program expectations) were major reasons quoted for their program departure.

Authors

• JoHyun Kim, Texas A&M University - Commerce

• Doo Hun Lim, University of Oklahoma

• Ji Hoon Song, University of North Texas

• Seung Won Yoon, Western Illinois University