4 Ways Higher Education Institutions Can Grow By Reaching New Learners

Melissa Loble is the Chief Academic Offer of Instructure, an edtech company that makes Canvas LMS and products serving K-12 and higher ed.

Despite some negative headlines about some higher education institutions closing in recent years, I believe we’re in an exciting period of transformation.

The traditional path from K-12 to higher education has changed significantly in recent years, so many institutions are pivoting to stay competitive. The most forward-thinking universities and colleges are expanding their reach, finding new ways to engage learners who might not have pursued higher education at the traditional times. Many are not just surviving—they’re thriving and transforming the role of higher education in the new learner career journey.

By recognizing this demographic shift and adapting their course offerings, other higher education institutions can expand their reach like never before. Here are four ways innovative institutions can drive growth by reaching new learners:

1. Embrace online and hybrid learning models.

Institutions must understand that these new traditional learners are seeking flexible, lifelong learning opportunities that fit into their lifestyles. It’s common for workers to abandon the career path they originally envisioned and start jobs in entirely new fields. The Stanford Center on Longevity predicts longer lifespans and more career changes in the future. The new traditional learner demands flexibility and is more focused on the ROI of their education—all in the pursuit of readiness for their next chapter and the many chapters to come.

The conventional academic model won’t be adequate to prepare a modern workforce with the skills to meet the challenges they’ll face in the future. To better address the evolving needs of the lifelong learner, institutions need to make it easier to attend across the state, no matter the student’s location.

Students in rural locations have long had fewer options when registering for courses. But we have great examples such as the Montana University System, which is working to make it easier for students to take online courses anywhere in the state. This will give the state of Montana a huge edge in creating a well-trained workforce.

2. Expand microcredentials and alternative credentials.

Not everyone needs—or wants—a traditional four-year degree. Recognizing this, many universities are launching microcredentials, certificate programs and other short-term learning options to help learners upskill quickly and affordably.

For instance, Florida Gulf Coast University offers microcredentials and digital badges, which are flexible, competency-based programs designed to prepare learners for particular career paths. In collaboration with employers, FGCU develops these programs to target skill gaps in the workforce. The digital badges recognize skills and competencies, providing learners with a verifiable way to showcase their abilities. These microcredentials are designed as a supplement to traditional degrees, offering an additional pathway for professional development.

Georgia Tech is reimagining its educational offerings by making personalized educational packages available to a broader spectrum of learners. By unbundling traditional degree components and rethinking the approach to the credit hour, the institution is addressing evolving job market demands and supporting continuous learning throughout individuals’ careers.

3. Strengthen partnerships with private industry and government.

Colleges that align with workforce needs are thriving by partnering with employers to design relevant, skills-based programs. Instead of waiting for students to enroll, they’re meeting learners directly in the workplace.

Take the example of California State University, which recently announced the largest deployment of ChatGPT to a student population, with half a million students getting access to AI to prepare them for the future. This is a great example of a public-private education partnership with the potential to drive lasting impact for students, institutions and the communities they serve.

Ensuring learners are equipped for an AI-enabled world through innovative teaching and learning practices will ensure students are ready to thrive in an evolving economy. They didn’t stop at simply giving students access to AI; they also partnered with several tech companies to ensure students could have access to training and resources to be prepared for the workforce.

The state of Alabama is leading the way in workforce development through an innovative partnership between the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), private industry and government. By collaborating with North AlabamaWorks and responding directly to the needs of local employers, ACCS colleges are delivering targeted training programs that prepare students for in-demand jobs across the state.

This model demonstrates the power of alignment between education, industry and public agencies—creating a nimble and responsive talent pipeline that strengthens the economy and meets the evolving needs of businesses. Alabama’s approach is a strong example of how strategic collaboration can drive job creation and fuel long-term economic growth.

4. Prioritize underserved and nontraditional learners.

Traditional higher education models have often excluded key demographics, including adult learners, military personnel, first-generation college students, returning parents and those in rural or underserved communities. Institutions that make it easier for these communities to attend can see significant enrollment gains. With AI’s ability to help nontraditional students, such as neurodivergent learners, we’re seeing many exciting opportunities.

Another example of reaching new learners is the way higher education is creating opportunities for military personnel. Many institutions have created military resource centers to ensure that veterans have access to services that will contribute to the likelihood of their success. By taking a whole-student approach to education, institutions can adapt to the modern needs of the learner.

The Future Of Higher Ed: Meeting Learners Where They Are

Higher education’s future belongs to institutions that think beyond the traditional model. Institutions that embrace online learning, microcredentials and corporate partnerships and look for ways to expand courses to broader student populations can see enrollment growth and increase their impact.

For colleges and universities looking to stay competitive, the message is clear: Innovation isn’t optional—it’s essential.

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