college websites

Survey: Students seek academic info on school websites


Higher-ed websites should offer information about majors and return on educational investment

When searching higher-ed websites, students tend to be more interested in information about academic majors and minors than a school’s ranking or cost, according to a new survey from best practice research company EAB.

According to the survey of nearly 5,000 students, 70 percent say finding information about majors and minors is their top priority when searching websites. Nineteen percent most want information about a school’s ranking or reputation, 45 percent say they want information about costs, and 24 percent are interested in financial aid.

In terms of digital advertising, students found general information (50 percent) and information about majors and minors (41 percent) most helpful.

“Over the past two years, there was a 3.6 percentage point increase in how important this academic program information was to prospective students,” writes EAB principal and consultant Anika Olsen in a blog analyzing the survey. “Results show 70 percent of respondents said they went to college websites to find information about majors and minors.”

Sign up for our newsletter

Newsletter: Innovations in K12 Education
By submitting your information, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Laura Ascione

"(Required)" indicates required fields