Dive Brief:
- Studies following Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society members and Dell Scholars find extra supports and financial help significantly increase the rate of bachelor’s degree attainment among low-income students, even when these students are compared to their peers.
- Inside Higher Ed reports 85% of the Phi Theta Kappa community college honors society members had earned an associate or bachelor’s degree within six years, and 7% were still enrolled at four-year institutions, while Dell Scholars were 25% more likely than other students to earn a bachelor’s degree on time or within six years.
- While these programs serve only the most high-achieving students, and there is an argument for focusing on systemic solutions at community colleges, the Phi Theta Kappa success outpaces even that of students with similar credentials who did not apply for the honor society — perhaps because there is something to be learned from the financial incentives and support services offered to these students.
Dive Insight:
Community colleges, overall, have dismal graduation and transfer rates. This is a reflection of the institution type — many people take classes with no plans to put those credits toward a degree. But fully 80% of these students say they want to earn a bachelor’s degree eventually, and the portion who actually do is at 38% and declining. The idea that the brightest among these students can be helped over the finish line is not especially compelling for those who would prefer to focus on more scalable solutions.
The push for large-scale, systemic change is also felt among reformers focusing on improving outcomes for students of color. Many colleges feature interventions that reach a small portion of the total student population and, while effective, are often too expensive or labor-intensive to offer to everyone. That is likely the case for Phi Theta Kappa and Dell Scholars supports and financial incentives. But, these programs clearly help a cohort of students every year and they should remain part of the overall solution.