Continuous Challenges: Case Study of a Sustainable University Adult Education Graduate Program

Abstract

Through their history, adult education graduate programs have flourished and dwindled and sustainability always seems to be in jeopardy. This case study examines one program’s growth, decline, and continuous rebirth in the competitive higher education market and academic stratification. Throughout its 55 years of existence, faculty have risen from the ranks to embrace an entrepreneurial spirit and leadership. Through flexibility and diversification, the program has evolved to meet the needs of the current learners. This model is sustainable if all faculty focus on the program first and their own professional reputations second.