| This study was an investigation to determine if there is a relationship between economic factors and student enrollment in postsecondary institutions in Ohio classified as bachelor's degree granting institutions. Economic factors for this study included but were not limited to wages, consumer price index, gross domestic product, and unemployment rates in Ohio. The investigation was conducted through quantitative methodology using multiple regression analysis for archived data for the years 2002 to 2012. The researcher's analysis showed that there is a relationship between economic factors and postsecondary enrollment in Ohio. The results of the study showed the relationship between each economic variable and enrollment in both private and public institutions classified as bachelor's degree granting institutions. The strength of the relationship between each economic factor and enrollment varied based on institutional sector. There were models within the study that resulted in no relationship between economic factors and enrollment. Studies have shown that economic fluctuations will continue to affect colleges and universities. Therefore, further research is recommended on the impact of state allocations and postsecondary enrollment in Ohio, cause and effect of economics on enrollment, and the role that economic upswings and downturns play on international enrollment in colleges and universities in Ohio. |
