Category: Strategy + Consulting

  • Making Higher Ed’s Back Office More Efficient and Student-Centric

    Making Higher Ed’s Back Office More Efficient and Student-Centric

    Facing challenges in enrollment, retention, or tech integration? Seeking growth in new markets? Our strategic insights pave a clear path for overcoming obstacles and driving success in higher education.

    Unlock the transformative potential within your institution – partner with us to turn today’s roadblocks into tomorrow’s achievements. Let’s chat.

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  • Rethinking Your Student Population

    Rethinking Your Student Population

    Rethink your student population whitepaper

    Adult learners are higher ed’s future

    Reskilling, upskilling and lifelong learning are creating a big opportunity for higher education to become the go-to resource for career-minded adults. But not all adult learners are alike. In this report, we break them down into four types of adult learners (Career Advancer, Career Builder, Discerning Academic and Hesitant Learner).

    Download the white paper with the following insights for each persona:

    • Top motivations
    • Recruitment strategies
    • Program optimization recommendations

    Collegis Education surveyed 1,000 adult learners interested in pursuing degrees for this white paper, Rethink Your Student Population. Discover who makes up the majority of the adult learner market and how to target your outreach to grow your enrollment in this untapped population.

    Also, get key takeaways in our infographic The Adult Learners You’re Ignoring.

    Download Now

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  • How To Use AI To Build Toward Impact In Higher Ed [Webinar]

    How To Use AI To Build Toward Impact In Higher Ed [Webinar]

    AI is the latest buzzword in higher ed, but without a clear strategy and solid data, institutions risk overinvesting in additional products, platforms, and applications they can’t fully support or operationalize. Instead, take a step back and ask, “What’s the impact I want to achieve, and how can AI fit or support my broader goals?”

    In this webinar, AI Jumpstart Kit: How to Build Toward IMPACT with AI in Higher Ed, Collegis Education’s AVP of Analytics & Technology Solutions, Dan Antonson, and Senior Director of Strategy and Innovation, Wes Catlett-Miller, will guide attendees through an interactive discussion about how to approach key use cases with AI in higher education. We’ll whiteboard out what an AI-enabled institution can look like, how it all works, and live demo actual AI initiatives Collegis has deployed for its partners.

    No clunky PowerPoint slides. Just a clear path for approaching AI enablement.

    What you’ll walk away with:
    • A thorough understanding of how AI fits into the broader ecosystem (add-ons vs. platform)
    • A model for making decisions on when to build and when to buy
    • A clear understanding of the role tech and data play in AI enablement
    Who should attend:
    • Presidents + Provosts
    • CFOs + COOs + CMOs
    • Enrollment + Marketing leaders

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  • 2025 Higher Education Trends: What to Watch & How You Can Plan

    2025 Higher Education Trends: What to Watch & How You Can Plan

    Higher education is experiencing transformative shifts as institutions respond to societal, economic, and technological changes. This year is set to bring new opportunities and challenges. We’re always keeping a pulse on the industry and where it’s headed so we can stay proactive and prepared –– ready to support our partners through whatever conditions they’re facing.

    10 most impactful higher ed trends for 2025

    To help institutions stay ahead, we asked our team of experts to share their predictions for this year’s most impactful trends in higher education. From AI and digital transformation to new enrollment strategies, these insights highlight what’s shaping the future of higher ed— and how institutions can adapt.

    1. Increased mergers and consolidations

    The pace of mergers and consolidations among smaller colleges is expected to accelerate in 2025, according to Collegis Education CEO Kim Fahey. With financial pressures and declining enrollment, many institutions will view mergers as a strategic alternative to closure. But these transitions are anything but simple.

    “Mergers involve unique technology requirements and complex data management challenges,” Fahey explains. Successfully integrating applications, systems, and hardware requires expert guidance. Higher ed leaders will look to partner with experienced organizations to help navigate these intricacies.

    2. Heightened focus on data privacy and security

    The information security landscape is becoming increasingly intricate. With 21 comprehensive state privacy laws, alongside European Union (EU) regulations, federal rules, and Title IV requirements, compliance challenges are mounting.

    “Smaller schools often lack the experience and qualifications to manage these threats,” notes Dr. Jason Nairn, CISSP, Collegis VP of Information Technology. Cyberattacks, like phishing and social engineering, are relentless. In 2025, institutions must prioritize more robust cybersecurity measures, leveraging external partnerships and security tools to protect sensitive data.

    3. Acceleration of digital transformation

    Cloud migration will take center stage as institutions transition away from outdated, on-campus systems. While many schools still rely on highly customized platforms, which limits their ability to adopt or migrate to more modern technology, the adaptability and scalability of cloud platforms are simply too compelling to ignore.

    Furthermore, technology infrastructures must be sufficiently modernized in order to capitalize on emerging tech innovations in AI and predictive analysis. This process can’t happen overnight –– it’s an evolution, according to Fahey.

    “Cloud migrations take 18+ months, so schools need to act now,” she emphasizes. An institution-wide commitment to digital transformation will not only modernize operations but also position institutions to stay competitive in an increasingly tech-driven environment.

    4. Adoption of shared services models

    Financial constraints will push smaller schools toward shared services and consortium models to access the technology and expertise they need at a manageable scale. These models allow institutions to pool resources and reduce costs but require significant change management, according to Jeff Certain, VP of Solution Development at Collegis.

    “This will require schools to standardize and make some concessions,” Certain explains. “This could pose a challenge, but they may not have an option.” Institutions must embrace these shifts to remain sustainable while navigating limited budgets.

    5. Growth in career-focused and flexible education

    Programs aligning with workforce needs will gain momentum in 2025. Alternative credentials like microcredentials and certificates will become more prominent, offering shorter, career-oriented pathways for learners.

    “Institutions will increasingly recognize and credit learning outside the classroom, exploring more direct pathways into the workforce,” predicts Dr. Tracy Chapman, Chief Academic Officer for Collegis. This reflects growing demand for flexible, career-focused education that meets student and employer expectations.

    6. Ed tech consolidation and market impact

    It is not just colleges and universities facing consolidation. Ed tech companies and services providers are also reshaping the landscape with their own mergers and acquisitions. While these changes may offer schools more comprehensive solutions, they may not necessarily align with institutional objectives.

    “Some recent acquisitions have led to poorer customer experiences,” Fahey observes. Institutions must carefully evaluate new partnerships to ensure they will deliver meaningful improvements.

    7. Higher Focus on Retention

    With the “enrollment cliff” looming, institutions must double down on maintaining their existing student base as a key to sustainability. Purposeful and cost-effective retention strategies will play a pivotal role in maintaining financial health, as retaining current students is often more cost-effective than recruiting new ones.

    “Retention strategies build stronger, more loyal communities,” says Patrick Green, VP of Enrollment Strategy. Forward-looking schools have perceived the importance of fostering a sense of belonging across the student lifecycle and are providing robust support networks that improve student persistence and satisfaction.

    8. Rise of value-focused marketing

    Students and families are increasingly demanding clear ROI from their education. As a result, institutions will need to demonstrate how their programs lead directly to employment and career advancement.

    “Building relationships with regional industries and showcasing job placement rates will be essential,” advises Tanya Pankratz, AVP of Marketing at Collegis. Marketing efforts will need to start highlighting tangible outcomes (e.g., alumni success stories, job placement rates, and employer partnerships) to win over prospective students.

    9. Expanded role of AI and emerging technologies

    AI and other emerging technologies will revolutionize higher education operations. From enrollment management and personalized marketing to virtual campus tours using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), technology has the means to dramatically enhance the student experience –– or wreak technical havoc if data, platforms and tools are misaligned.

    “AI-driven tools make personalization more accessible, but the strategy remains critical,” notes Dan Antonson, AVP of Data and Analytics. Institutions must invest in data infrastructure to fully harness these advancements in order to build and maintain a competitive edge.

    10. Proliferation of strategic partnerships

    Higher ed institutions are increasingly recognizing that they don’t need to own the entire value chain. In 2025, strategic partnerships will play a more prominent role.

    “Institutions will double down on their core mission of education and seek out partners to support other critical functions,” Dr. Chapman explains. These partnerships provide access to technology, expertise, and resources, allowing schools to focus on what they do best — educating students.

    Opportunities on the horizon for higher ed

    As evident in this compilation of higher ed trends, the landscape is set for significant change in 2025 and beyond. Institutions that proactively address these trends will be well-positioned to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. By embracing digital transformation, fostering strategic partnerships, and adopting value-driven approaches, schools can ensure long-term success in an evolving marketplace.

    Excited about the opportunities that lie ahead? Collegis Education has the experience and expertise to guide you through any twists and turns you may face. We’ll help you stay on the leading edge instead of chasing trends. Connect with us and let’s start creating solutions together.

    Innovation Starts Here

    Higher ed is evolving — don’t get left behind. Explore how Collegis can help your institution thrive.

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  • Top 8 Disruptive Trends Shaping Higher Ed in 2025

    Top 8 Disruptive Trends Shaping Higher Ed in 2025

    The coming year promises to be transformative for higher education as institutions find new ways to manage enrollment targets, operating costs, and shifting student expectations. Several existing and emerging trends have the potential to alter the higher ed landscape as we know it in 2025.

    Disruption isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It often leads to innovation and more efficient ways to meet the needs of students, faculty, and administrators. The good news is we have the tools and the know-how to address these challenges head-on. Institutions focused on building foundational capabilities in the coming months are best positioned to leverage technology effectively and position themselves for continued success.

    Here are the trends I predict will significantly impact higher ed this year and what we can do to take advantage of them.

    1. More Urgent Digital Transformation Plans
      Institutions need access to valid, reliable, and meaningful data to operate effectively. Thousands of schools still rely on proprietary, on-premise student information systems (SIS) with fragmented data sources, which limits their ability to make data-enabled decisions. Given that migrating to cloud-based solutions can take 18+ months, it’s important for schools to start the process now. Although the process is difficult given the significant change management associated with large cloud migrations, it will enable them to operate more efficiently and compete more effectively. I anticipate we’ll see SIS cloud migrations at the top of the priority lists at many institutions.
    2. Heightened Focus on Cybersecurity
      Cyber attackers have targeted higher education for years because they know they are a rich source of student and institutional data and the digital infrastructures at most schools are outdated. Hackers continue to find new ways to access networks and data, especially as the number of connected devices and applications swells. Institutions need to stay vigilant to cyber threats while also complying with various data privacy laws. I count 18 states with privacy regulations in addition to U.S. federal and European Union requirements. It’s an extremely complex situation only made more difficult by the shortage of cybersecurity professionals, especially at smaller schools. In 2025, institutions will focus on automating network security protocols and finding outside resources to augment their security capabilities.
    3. Expanded Use of Shared Services
      Smaller schools need access to the same technology and technical expertise as larger schools, just on a reduced scale with a more limited budget. I anticipate that smaller schools will seek strategic partners to manage critical IT and other specialized services to support data access, reliability, and usability. It’s a smart way to reduce costs while maintaining essential day-to-day services, enhancing security protocols, and being prepared for technology advancements.
    4. Continuation of Mergers and Acquisitions
      Financial pressures and the threat of closures will continue to drive acquisitions of some smaller schools. Mergers create significant challenges to combine the data, applications, and systems of the two institutions. However, the benefits to both sides are worth it in streamlining operations, retaining existing students, and growing enrollment. Given the breadth and depth of our functional and technical expertise, we can help schools to navigate the challenges and drive positive results.
    5. Adoption of Data-Enabled Technologies
      As institutions embrace digital transformation, they build out the foundation needed to take advantage of data-enabled technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). With the initial hype of AI behind us, I anticipate in 2025 that schools will start to deploy AI-enabled solutions that feed off rich data sources to personalize recruitment efforts, improve retention, invigorate online classes, and predict demand for course offerings, as a few examples.
    6. Refinement of Enrollment and Retention Strategies
      The declining number of high school graduates and international enrollments continues to intensify the effort to recruit and retain students. I expect to see schools expand how they leverage data to personalize recruitment campaigns, target secondary audiences (such as adult learners and transfer students), and nurture existing students. The success of this strategy relies heavily on having the right infrastructure in place to support centralized data access, emerging technologies, and analytic tools.
    7. Shift to Career-Focused and Flexible Learning Opportunities
      Like changing recruitment and retention methods, institutions will continue to adapt their academic programs to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. They will highlight outcomes based on data about job placement rates, alumni success stories, and collaborations with area businesses to illustrate tangible benefits. They will evaluate current course offerings and pivot when it makes sense to expand hybrid learning models, professional development programs, and skill-based credentials. This effort may involve launching new programs in high-demand fields, such as data science and cybersecurity, or retooling existing programs to incorporate emerging technologies.
    8. Consolidation of Ed-tech Solution Providers
      Many higher education software and service providers have discussed how they could combine forces to serve colleges and universities better. I think we’ll see M&A activity pick up over the next two years. These consolidations will further the need for institutions to standardize business processes and accelerate cloud migrations as legacy systems will eventually become unsupported.

    I’m excited about the positive impact these eight trends might make in 2025. Higher education institutions that prioritize foundational improvements by aligning their data, technology, and talent are best suited to successfully address mounting challenges like demographic shifts and affordability concerns.

    I can’t wait to see how schools that adopt AI and predictive analytics are able to improve decision-making and enhance student experiences. However, the real breakthrough will come from integrating systems and breaking down data silos. Institutions that invest in building these foundational capabilities will be better positioned to leverage emerging technologies, drive measurable outcomes, and fulfill their mission to support lifelong learners.

    — Kim Fahey, CEO Collegis Education

    Innovation Starts Here

    Higher ed is evolving — don’t get left behind. Explore how Collegis can help your institution thrive.

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  • 2025 UPCEA Annual Conference – Collegis Education

    2025 UPCEA Annual Conference – Collegis Education

    Higher education is evolving, and institutions need innovative strategies to keep up with shifting learner expectations. That’s why Collegis Education is excited to attend the 2025 UPCEA Annual Conference, the premier event for leaders in professional, continuing, and online education. This conference brings together experts and decision-makers to explore the latest trends, technologies, and strategies that are transforming higher ed.

    Why Attend the 2025 UPCEA Annual Conference?

    This conference is a must-attend event for higher ed leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve in online learning, workforce development, and digital transformation. Key themes include:

    • Data-Driven Decision-Making – Leveraging analytics to improve student outcomes and enrollment strategies.
    • Technology & Digital Transformation – Implementing scalable solutions to enhance the student experience.
    • Workforce-Aligned Learning – Creating programs that meet the evolving needs of students and employers.
    • Marketing & Enrollment Growth – Adapting strategies to attract, engage, and retain today’s learners.

    Collegis Education brings the expertise and proven strategies to help institutions overcome enrollment challenges, optimize operations, and drive sustainable growth.

    Where to Find Us

    Our team will be on-site, ready to connect and discuss how Collegis can help your institution navigate the complexities of online education, marketing, and student success.

    Want to meet up? Let’s schedule a time to chat! Contact us to book a meeting.

    We look forward to seeing you in Denver!

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