Promoting Your Academic Programs: 8 Markets to Tap Into

Academic programs continue to evolve based on factors like the job market, the economy, and new technology. After the pandemic, students and instructors had to contend with a new approach to learning, which became largely remote.

Other education trends, like diversity and inclusion, mental health and wellness, non-traditional students, artificial intelligence and changing financial priorities, are impacting current academic programs. Organizations are becoming more flexible and creative in the types of programs they offer and are partnering with other training providers like MedCerts to enhance their offerings.

One key consideration for successfully promoting academic programs is the people you market them to. The online learning world has opened up much wider audiences for many different programs. This guide walks you through markets you should consider tapping into in 2023 and beyond to increase your college enrollment strategies.

1. Adult Learners

Adults over the age of 25 make up 40% of higher education enrollment in the U.S. Targeting this population means considering the unique challenges they may face when going back to school, like balancing work and family or feeling like it’s too late to get a degree.

The online programs at MedCerts help this population succeed. They’re not tied to a class schedule, so students take on a self-paced approach for more flexibility. This is perfect for adult learners trying to balance their lives.

2. Working Professionals

Many students obtain a certificate or degree when they’re already in the workforce. Emphasize how your programs cater to non-traditional student schedules, like offering weeknight or weekend classes. For example, MedCerts offers more flexible, short-term certification programs to help students fit learning into their work schedules.

3. Underrepresented Groups

Focus on how a program serves students from populations like ethnic minorities, low-income families, individuals with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community and more. Showing that you are open and welcoming to all will help more students feel comfortable in the program.

Higher education institutions can take advantage of the WIOA/Workforce funding grants from MedCerts to assist low-income students in paying for their programs.

4. Active Duty Service Members and/or Spouses

Many programs exist to help active duty service members and military spouses get an education. Targeting this group with a discount or special offer can help you expand your reach to help them succeed. MedCerts accepts Army Credentialing Assistance and MyCAA grants, which could help you reach this particular audience.

5. Veterans

The same applies to veterans. Consider giving appreciation to people who have served by showing them you support them. Emphasize how your programs will help them gain meaningful employment.

6. Distance Learners

Remote learning means students from anywhere can tune into a live class or do self-guided coursework. Think about these learners who may live in other states or rural areas and can join virtually.

7. Retirees

No one is too old to go back to school. Don’t forget that many retired individuals may still need another source of income. Show this population how your programs could help them earn more and keep learning in retirement.

8. Career Changers

The pandemic and the changing job market caused people to reevaluate their careers. They started to prioritize more fulfilling work. Target this population of career changers looking for better options for their skills, goals and interests.

Adding certifications from MedCerts to your course catalog helps you attract career changers looking to get their foot in the door of a new career.

Why Partner With MedCerts?

At MedCerts, we offer online education programs and credentialing for anyone interested in the healthcare or IT industry. Academic institutions should consider partnering with MedCerts to help bridge the gap for students.

Add our certification programs to your course catalog, offer credit for prior learning (CPL) and apprenticeships, access support services and much more. We offer over 55 online certification programs to help you expand your learning opportunities and student reach.

Learn more about our online career training programs and how to join our academic partnership network.