Enrollment Strategy After Rapid Growth: Old Dominion University in the 2010s

The case study examines Old Dominion University’s (ODU) undergraduate enrollment strategies during the mid-2010s, highlighting the challenges faced by the institution. Through board meetings and historical analysis, it explores ODU’s aggressive enrollment growth, financial strategies, and academic standards. The study contrasts ODU with peers, such as Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and George Mason University (GMU), revealing the impact of low tuition and high admission rates on academic quality and financial stability. It ultimately questions whether ODU should prioritize accessibility or academic excellence and provides a basis for strategic decision-making and planning.