The challenges of improving college
affordability and degree attainment are inexorably linked. So
we asked a simple question: Can reward-based
funding help drive student persistence and attainment?
Brian W. Jones, Strayer University President
The answer? A resounding yes.
Strayer University’s Graduation Fund rewards bachelor’s students with one class at no cost for every three classes they pass, which over time can reduce the total cost of their degree by 25 percent. The classes are redeemed in the final terms of a student’s program, meaning students who persist through the full program receive their final year of study at no-cost. Results show that this funding model improves student persistence and degree attainment.
Brandon Cooper, Bachelor of Business Administration Student
Too many students take on debt, but do not finish their degrees. As a result, many fail to reap the rewards of post-secondary attainment: meaningful employment, higher salary and improved quality of life.
Enter the Graduation Fund, a direct response to the interrelated challenges of both affordability and attainment.
Since 2013, 8,600 bachelor’s degree students redeemed Graduation Fund credits, for a total of 35,000 classes – at a value of over $53 million in tuition. Results are promising: