How Do Student Goals Influence Persistence in Degree Competition at an Urban Technical College?

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the different characteristics of two distinctive students groups: a) those who go on warning, probation, and suspension and/or leave the college, and b) those who stay in good academic standing over a 3 to 4-semester period and/or complete their program of study. In addition, the study sought to determine if there was any relationship between the students’ commitment to their selected program of study and success or failure in completing their degrees. Other elements of the study included exploration of student academic standards differences as well as barriers and obstacles to completing programs. Overall, the results indicated that changes in Federal Financial, holding institutions and students accountable, selecting good students, and helping them graduate on time are taking a heavy toll on poorly prepared students. Even highly motivated students, who have defined career objective and goals, still fail in large numbers due to internal and external barriers.