why is langston university graduation rate so low

Direms

2 min read

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15-04-2025

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Langston University, a historically Black university (HBU) with a rich history, faces challenges reflected in its relatively low graduation rate. Understanding this requires examining a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, institutional resources, and student support systems. While the university strives for improvement, addressing these underlying issues is crucial for boosting student success.

Socioeconomic Factors and Student Preparedness

One significant factor contributing to Langston University's lower graduation rate is the socioeconomic background of many of its students. A substantial portion of the student body comes from low-income families. This often translates to:

• Limited Access to Resources: Students may lack access to adequate academic support, tutoring, and technology outside of the classroom. This can hinder their ability to keep up with coursework.
• Financial Constraints: The high cost of college, even with financial aid, can force students to work extensive hours, impacting their academic performance and potentially leading to dropping out.
• Prior Educational Gaps: Some students may enter college with inadequate preparation due to under-resourced K-12 education. This can create academic hurdles early on, making it harder to stay on track for graduation.

Institutional Resources and Support Systems

While Langston University offers various support services, limitations in resources can affect their effectiveness:

• Faculty-to-Student Ratio: A high student-to-faculty ratio can make it difficult for professors to provide individualized attention and support to students struggling academically. Smaller class sizes and more personalized mentoring can significantly impact student success.
• Limited Funding: HBUs, like Langston, often face funding disparities compared to larger, predominantly white institutions (PWIs). This can restrict the university's ability to invest in crucial student support programs.
• Accessibility of Support Services: Even with available services, accessibility might be an issue. This includes factors like the timing and location of tutoring services, or the availability of mental health support. Making these resources more convenient and accessible is crucial.

Retention Strategies and Initiatives

Langston University is actively implementing strategies to improve student retention and graduation rates:

• Early Alert Systems: These systems identify students at risk of failing or dropping out early, allowing for timely intervention and support.
• Academic Advising: Strong academic advising plays a vital role in guiding students towards appropriate courses and providing academic support.
• Mentorship Programs: Connecting students with mentors who can offer guidance and support can significantly improve student success.
• Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities: Increasing access to financial aid and scholarships can ease the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus more on their studies.

Addressing the Systemic Challenges

Improving Langston University's graduation rate requires a multifaceted approach:

• Increased Funding: Securing adequate funding from both public and private sources is essential for expanding support services and improving the overall learning environment.
• Strengthening K-12 Education: Addressing disparities in K-12 education is crucial for ensuring that students arrive at college better prepared for academic success.
• Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local organizations can provide additional resources and support to students.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Regularly analyzing data on student retention and graduation rates can help identify areas for improvement and refine existing programs.

Langston University's lower graduation rate is a complex issue with deep roots. Addressing the socioeconomic factors, enhancing institutional resources, and implementing effective retention strategies is key to helping students succeed and achieve their educational goals. The university's ongoing efforts, coupled with broader societal changes, hold promise for improving the future graduation rates and the overall success of its students.