The Next Chapter in the Evolution of Higher Education

Embracing the Era of the Modern Learner

Higher education is undergoing significant transformation as institutions adapt to the demands of the “modern learner.” These learners seek flexible, career-focused pathways and personalised support, prompting a shift towards both traditional and alternative educational models.

A recent report by Higher Ed Dive highlights a rise in enrollment, especially at community colleges and public institutions, creating new opportunities for universities to meet changing student expectations. As U.S institutions navigate this changing landscape, prioritising student engagement and success becomes essential.

Let’s dive into the key areas shaping higher education in 2025, including enrollment growth, flexible learning, alternative credentials, industry partnerships, support for SCNC students, and the role of international student. 

Enrollment Growth and the Demand for Flexible Learning

In 2024, higher education enrolments have shown promising growth, with undergraduate numbers increasing by 2.5%, largely at community colleges and public institutions. Graduate enrolments have grown by 3%, and dual enrolment programs for high school students are on the rise, helping them experience college-level learning early. Flexibility in learning options has become essential, particularly for associate degree-granting baccalaureate colleges and private, for-profit institutions. 

SEAtS offers institutions an integrated attendance management solution that enhances campus operations and supports flexible learning environments. With Bluetooth-enabled check-ins via the SEAtS mobile app, students can manage their attendance, receive real-time alerts, and view class updates—all from their smartphones.

SEAtS also provides institutions with comprehensive insights into student engagement and progression, ensuring accurate reporting and improved student success outcomes.

Flexible Credentials for Career Success

As tuition costs rise, alternative credentials such as certificates and apprenticeships have become increasingly popular, offering targeted, skill-based pathways to the workforce.

From 2019 to 2024, undergraduate certificates saw substantial growth. Graduate certificates also offer a valuable option, providing cost-effective, advanced skill development that aligns closely with workforce needs.

As many students and professionals focus on acquiring targeted skills, these alternative pathways provide a streamlined approach to career advancement, complementing traditional degrees and benefiting a wide range of industries.

In fields such as medical schools, law schools, and business schools, professional accreditation and hands-on training are essential for career readiness. SEAtS Modern and Trade Apprenticeship management system assists institutions in managing this crucial aspect by efficiently tracking students’ teaching, training, and class hours across on-campus, remote, and workplace environments.

SEAtS simplifies regulatory reporting, helping institutions meet standards and support students’ paths to qualification. This tracking ensures students graduate with the credentials and experience needed for their fields.

Meeting Workforce Demand through Skill Focused Programs and Inclusive Support 

As sectors like healthcare and finance anticipate workforce growth, institutions are proactively designing curricula that provide practical, career-ready skills aligned with industry needs.

By engaging with industry partners, colleges and universities create programs that offer students the competencies essential for evolving career landscapes, strengthening their readiness to enter the job market.

SEAtS’ Widening Participation solution supports this mission by equipping institutions with actionable insights to help diverse students succeed. With tools for tracking engagement and achievement, SEAtS enables institutions to offer equitable support for underrepresented students, meeting DEI objectives and boosting retention.

This approach not only supports students on their path to graduation but also ensures they’re well-prepared for impactful careers.

Supporting SCNC Students

Students who have some college experience but no degree, also known as SCNC students, present an important growth area. Many SCNC students have experience in career-oriented fields like business and healthcare, emphasising the value of re-enrolment programs that offer career-aligned courses and completion pathways. 

SEAtS’ student engagement solution helps institutions track the academic progress and engagement of SCNC students, providing real-time insights into their performance and well-being. This data empowers staff to identify students who may need additional support, ensuring timely interventions tailored to each student’s goals and ambitions. By monitoring engagement, SEAtS enables proactive guidance, driving student success and retention.

Conclusion

As higher education faces new challenges, institutions that implement unified enrollment strategies, offer flexible, career-oriented programs, and provide proactive student support will be better equipped for success. Expanding credential options and engaging a diverse range of students will help create a more adaptable and future-ready learning environment. By focusing on affordability and employability, institutions can ensure their graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s workforce.

SEAtS ONE solutions support early intervention and track student engagement, which are key to driving student success. By identifying at-risk students and providing timely, tailored support, SEAtS ONE enables institutions to improve academic outcomes and build a reputation for excellence. Placing student success at the heart of strategy ensures that institutions thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape, while improving engagement, retention, and overall institutional success.

Curious how an all-in-one-platform like SEAtS ONE can help your institution gear up for the future?

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