RNL’s Market and Program Viability Studies are designed to help colleges and universities evaluate the potential of new markets for program expansion and achieve their enrollment goals. This case study demonstrates how we partnered with a consortium of schools in the Midwest to turn their mission into a data-informed strategy for success.
The Challenge
A newly formed consortium of related schools was charged with a mission to promote key health and medical programs across the constituent institutions in new potential markets throughout the country. They needed to answer key questions with data, not just assumptions. Questions like: Was the market size sufficient? Could the labor market support new graduates? Was there room to compete?
Our Approach
RNL’s research team worked side-by-side with the consortium to move beyond standard market analysis. We conducted a comprehensive review of secondary data, an in-depth competitive landscape assessment, and targeted quantitative analysis. This approach allowed us to identify critical market factors like government actions and population trends that would impact success. We provided a final market viability scorecard, giving the consortium a qualitative look into each region and helping them pinpoint the strongest programs in the strongest markets.
The Impact
The partnership provided the consortium with more than just data; it gave them the actionable insights they needed to confidently move forward.
- Identified Growth Opportunities: We uncovered specific health and medical programs with high demand in key geographic markets, providing a focus for their recruitment efforts.
- Tailored Messaging and Strategy: Our research revealed that the positioning of programs and the required graduate competencies varied by region. This enabled the consortium to develop differentiated messaging and recruitment strategies for each unique audience.
- Actionable Data: We leveraged state-specific data on licensing, retirement, and employment trends to help the consortium understand the specific needs of each market and align their programs accordingly.
- Informed Decision-Making: We provided powerful, actionable insights into government mandates for program expansions, allowing the consortium to capitalize on guaranteed demand.
Ready to turn your program goals into a reality?
Schedule a call with one of our consultants to learn how RNL’s Market and Program Viability Studies can help your institution achieve its enrollment goals.