Graduate Program
College Student Affairs
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
2012
Thesis Director
James Wallace
Thesis Committee Member
Angela Yoder
Thesis Committee Member
Mona Davenport
Abstract
This study was designed to examine the recruitment, matriculation, attrition, and retention behaviors of African American students attending the university. Data collected for this study were obtained from surveys completed by African American undergraduate students enrolled at the university either part-time or full-time at the time of the survey. Frequencies, percentages, and summaries were utilized in data analysis. There were also opportunities for participants to explain their responses.
The participants in this study completed a 25-item survey. This survey requested that participants rate (1) their level of involvement in co-curricular activities on campus; (2) their relationships with faculty and staff; (3) their overall satisfaction with the university; ( 4) their level of satisfaction with campus resources, (5) their overall academic ability and performance, (6) their emotional, physical, and mental health, and (7) their level of religiosity and spirituality. The results of this study suggest that African American students at the university were moderately involved in co-curricular activities on campus, had positive relationships with faculty and staff, demonstrated only minor unhealthy or risky behavior, were moderately involved in their faith, and were overall satisfied with the university and campus resources. The data also suggest that African American students at the university often experience moderate depression and feelings of being overwhelmed, yet choose to not utilize the counseling services provided on campus.
Recommended Citation
Rainer, Christina L., "African American students' perceptions of undergraduate experiences: Matriculation, retention, attrition, and graduation" (2012). Masters Theses. 790.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/790
