From the breathtaking landscapes to the vibrant cultural mix, Hawaii has always held an undeniable allure. And nestled in the heart of this paradise lies Hawaii Pacific University, a renowned institution that beckons students from far and wide. However, behind the postcard-perfect exterior lies a disheartening truth: HPU’s graduation rate is shockingly low. As we dive into the depths of this predicament, we unravel a tale of promise and potential lost, where minority students face additional barriers, and the clock ticks faster than students can keep up. Journey with us as we untangle the complexities and seek answers to the burning question: Why is Hawaii Pacific University’s graduation rate so alarmingly low?
why is hawaii pacific university graduation rate so low
Pro Tips:
1. Implement a mentorship program: Establishing a mentorship program where upperclassmen can guide and support incoming freshmen can help improve the retention rate and provide a sense of community.
2. Enhance academic support services: Increase resources for tutoring, study groups, and academic advising to ensure students have the necessary support to succeed academically and stay on track to graduate.
3. Strengthen student engagement opportunities: Develop more opportunities for students to get involved in clubs, organizations, and campus activities to create a sense of belonging and increase student engagement, which can positively impact retention and graduation rates.
4. Offer financial aid workshops and resources: Provide accessible workshops and resources on financial aid options, scholarships, and budgeting to help students navigate the financial aspect of attending college and potentially reduce the likelihood of dropping out due to financial constraints.
5. Improve communication and outreach to non first-time/part-time students: Develop a system to maintain consistent communication and outreach to non-traditional students who may have paused their education, ensuring they feel supported and have the necessary resources to successfully complete their degrees.
Freshmen retention rate at Hawaii Pacific University
Freshmen retention rate at Hawaii Pacific University stands at 66%, which is relatively close to the national average of 70.57%. This statistic indicates the percentage of first-time, full-time students who return to the university for their second year. Although this rate falls slightly below the national average, it is important to analyze the factors that contribute to this phenomenon.
One potential reason for the lower retention rate could be the challenges faced by incoming students in adjusting to the academic and social environment at Hawaii Pacific University. Moving away from home and starting college can be a significant transition for many students, and some may struggle to adapt to a new setting. Additionally, Hawaii Pacific University attracts a diverse student body, which can lead to cultural and personal adjustments for students from different backgrounds.
Another possibility is that some students may encounter financial difficulties during their first year at the university. Tuition fees, accommodation costs, and living expenses can create significant financial strain, potentially leading to increased stress and a decreased likelihood of returning for a second year.
Graduation rate for completing bachelor’s degree within six years
The graduation rate for completing a bachelor’s degree within six years at Hawaii Pacific University is 33%. This figure is considerably lower than the national average, which raises concerns about the factors contributing to this discrepancy.
One key factor may be the average time taken to graduate with a bachelor’s degree, which stands at 4.37 years. Some students may take longer than the standard four years to complete their degree due to various reasons such as part-time enrollment, work commitments, or changing majors. If a significant number of students are unable to complete their degree within the standard timeframe, it can impact the overall graduation rate.
Additionally, the university’s non-completers rate, which includes transfer students and dropouts, is at 66%. This suggests that a significant portion of students who enroll at Hawaii Pacific University are not able to finish their degree program. Identifying the reasons behind this high non-completers rate is essential in developing strategies to improve graduation rates.
Average time taken to graduate with a bachelor’s degree
The average time taken to graduate with a bachelor’s degree at Hawaii Pacific University is 4.37 years. While this timeframe is slightly longer than the standard four-year duration, it is still within a reasonable range. Students may take longer to complete their degree for various reasons, including the need to work part-time or the decision to change majors. However, it is important to ensure that students receive sufficient support and resources to stay on track and minimize any potential delays in completing their degree.
Non-completers rate, including transfer students and dropouts
Hawaii Pacific University has a non-completers rate of 66%, which includes both transfer students and dropouts. This high rate indicates a significant number of students who do not complete their degree program at the university. Understanding the factors that contribute to this non-completion is crucial in developing strategies to improve student retention and increase graduation rates.
Financial challenges can be one factor that leads to non-completion. Students may face difficulties in meeting the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses. Providing additional financial support, scholarships, or work-study opportunities could help alleviate these challenges and encourage students to persist in their education.
Other factors contributing to the non-completers rate may include academic difficulties, lack of social support, or personal circumstances that make it difficult for students to continue their education. Developing robust academic support programs, mentorship opportunities, and fostering a sense of community on campus can contribute to increased student success and higher graduation rates.
Graduation rate by racial/ethnic group at Hawaii Pacific University
When analyzing the graduation rate by racial/ethnic group at Hawaii Pacific University, it is interesting to note that Asian students have the highest graduation rate at 66%, while black/African-American students have the lowest at 22%. This disparity highlights the importance of addressing the specific challenges and barriers faced by different racial and ethnic groups in achieving academic success.
Universities need to adopt targeted support programs and initiatives to ensure that students from underrepresented backgrounds receive the necessary resources and support to thrive academically. This can include mentorship programs, cultural organizations, and diversity training for faculty and staff to facilitate a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.
In conclusion, several factors contribute to the low graduation rate at Hawaii Pacific University. These include the freshmen retention rate, average time taken to graduate, non-completers rate, and disparities between racial/ethnic groups. By understanding and addressing these factors, the university can implement targeted interventions to improve student retention, persistence, and overall graduation rates.