Institutional Research (IR) plays a critical role in higher education, providing the data and insights needed to drive informed decision-making. Widely regarded as the foundation course for IR, A Holistic Approach to Institutional Research is an interactive online course designed to help IR professionals navigate the complexities of the field and develop a well-rounded understanding of their role within their institution. Offering this course across IR teams builds alignment around shared foundational principles and fosters a lasting professional network among participants.

Through a combination of readings, discussions, exercises, and videos, participants will explore key challenges facing IR today and discover practical solutions. The course covers essential topics such as data governance, decision support, analytics, and the evolving role of IR in strategic planning. With mentor support throughout the online experience, participants engage in meaningful dialogue and apply concepts to real-world scenarios.

For those seeking deeper engagement, an optional two-day in-person seminar follows the online course, providing an opportunity for hands-on learning, networking, and collaboration with peers.

Why Choose This Solution

By participating in this course together, teams from different constituent institutions develop:

• Aligned understanding of IR principles grounded in best practices.
• Common language and frameworks for data governance, decision support, and analytics.
• Improved collaboration across institutions, strengthening system-wide data initiatives.
• Stronger individual IR offices that contribute more effectively to system or consortium priorities.
• Faster adoption of a data-informed culture across multiple campuses, reducing silos and inconsistencies.

Supporting a cross-institutional cohort assists your organization in:

• Standardizing expectations and skillsets across member institutions.
• Accelerating improvements in data quality, reporting, and strategic planning.
• Enhancing collective accreditation readiness and compliance efforts.
• Demonstrating strategic investment in professional development that yields system-wide impact.

Course Details

• Format: Asynchronous online course
• Optional Add-On: Two-day in-person seminar for deeper engagement
• Duration: Approximately six weeks