On Belay: Navigating the Enrollment Cliff in Kinesiology

This paper addresses a critical issue in higher education by providing an overview of the enrollment cliff, its implications for Kinesiology programs in the United States, and strategies to tackle the enrollment cliff. Survey your Landscape—institutions across the United States brace for demographic shifts expected to reshape the student population over the coming decade and beyond. Know your own Rock Face—Kinesiology programs are varied in scope and size based on factors such as location, institution type, size, and curriculum and/or subprograms. However, there are common issues that each program faces that can exacerbate the impact of the enrollment cliff. Plan your Route, Anchors, and Safety System—Kinesiology programs must adopt a multifaceted approach that emphasizes recruitment, retention, and resource optimization. By strategically aligning program offerings with market demand, engaging in proactive outreach, and fostering strong partnerships, Kinesiology programs can successfully climb the enrollment cliff.