SWOT Analysis

SWOT is an acronym for an organizations strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Completing a SWOT analysis provides insight into areas of focus during a strategic planning process.

Strengths

• Our people and their shared focus on student success
• A wide range of academic programs, many with national accreditation
• A diverse and vibrant student body and campus community
• A reputation as an international university and our strong international connections and partnerships
• Our Husky Compact that defines our shared educational values
• Strong and established partnerships within our community

Weaknesses

• Declining enrollment due to changing demographics, increased competition and some programs that lack clear career alignment
• Lower than expected student success outcomes, including student learning, retention and completion
• Lack of a brand and strategic marketing and communications strategy
• Organizational silos that make us slow to respond to internal needs and external opportunities
• Uneven engagement across students, campus and community – both within and across
• Inadequate resources for facilities, equipment and recruitment and retention of quality staff

Opportunities

• Growing public interest in educational value and transparent pricing
• Expanding non-traditional market, including baccalaureate completion in the Twin Cities
• Expanding partnerships and engagement opportunities within our communities
• Location on the river and along the growing I-94 corridor

Threats

• Regional and online competition for students
• Stagnant state investment in higher education
• Decreased family buying power and high rate of unmet financial need
• Higher education’s current role in society is less valued while expectations are rising