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The interaction between dropout, graduation rates and quality ratings in universities

Author

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  • Eline Sneyers

    (Maastricht University)

  • Kristof De Witte

    (Maastricht University
    Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KU Leuven))

Abstract

This paper investigates in a non-parametric framework whether academic programmes maximize their student graduation rates and programme quality ratings given the first-year student dropout rates. In addition, it explores what institutional and programme characteristics explain this interaction. The results show a large variation in how academic programmes are able to deal with the selective nature of first-year dropout. Nevertheless, we can accurately explain the variation among programmes by programme and institutional characteristics. It seems that universities can maximize the relation between first-year dropout, graduation rates and quality ratings in several ways: (1) by improving student programme satisfaction, (2) by better preparing certain groups of students for higher education, (3) by supporting male students, (4) by supporting ethnic minority students, (5) by attracting older staff, and (6) by strengthening the selective nature of the first year (ie, increasing the academic dismissal policy threshold).

Suggested Citation

  • Eline Sneyers & Kristof De Witte, 2017. "The interaction between dropout, graduation rates and quality ratings in universities," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 68(4), pages 416-430, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jorsoc:v:68:y:2017:i:4:d:10.1057_jors.2016.15
    DOI: 10.1057/jors.2016.15
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    2. Badiee, Aghdas & Moshtari, Mohammad & Berenguer, Gemma, 2024. "A systematic review of operations research and management science modeling techniques in the study of higher education institutions," Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, Elsevier, vol. 93(C).
    3. Ma, Zhanxin & See, Kok Fong & Yu, Ming-Miin & Zhao, Chunying, 2021. "Research efficiency analysis of China's university faculty members: A modified meta-frontier DEA approach," Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, Elsevier, vol. 76(C).

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