Our client, one of the leading higher education institutions in the UAE offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees based upon the American model of higher education faced the challenge of sustaining strong enrolment growth while improving academic quality, retention rates and student diversity; and set tuition fee at a level that better reflects the perceived value of international higher education. In addition, the client wanted to identify new degree programmes to launch as part of its larger effort to expand its offering portfolio and align the degrees offered to requirements of employers and the country's economic vision.
The grmc solution
grmc was approached by the university to undertake an in-depth research study to determine the demand for new academic programmes amongst the university’s prospective students and employers. The study also included detailed profiling of higher education institutions and an extensive primary research campaign to assess parent, student and employer perceptions and expectations pursuant to higher education specialisations.
Our engagement included extensive research activity to quantify demand for and supply of university degree programmes. We developed detailed student enrolment forecast models by degree programme, allowing for relative comparison of most successful degree programmes and specialisations.
Results achieved
grmc prescribed recommendations and strategic enrolment plan to increase student enrolment without a detrimental impact on the quality of education provided and student outcomes. Our multivariate approach assessed potential for new degree programmes relative to broader economic dynamics, future employment opportunities and the competitive environment. In addition, forecast models developed by grmc produced detailed revenue projections by degree programme.
Our research findings led the university to successfully launch new degrees, and gain approval and international accreditation. grmc has been retained by the client for undertaking annual research campaign to forecast student enrolment rates, assess competitive market dynamics, current student perceptions and satisfaction, employer requirements and develop strategic action plans to improve student outcomes.
Continued growth in the university’s student enrolment and demand for its graduates has prompted the university to embark on an expansion plan comprising establishment of a university teaching hospital and new campus facilities.