A Quantitative Analysis of Rural and Urban Student Outcomes Based on Location of Institution of Attendance

Abstract

This quantitative research study sought to examine the differences in retention and degree attainment for college students depending on their home locale and the location of their institution of attendance. Students were divided into four groups: rural students who attended a rural institution, rural students who attended an urban institution, urban students who attended a rural institution, and urban students who attended an urban institution. The study utilized a chi-square test of homogeneity to determine if there was a statistically significant difference between the four groups. Analysis found statistically significant differences in retention and degree attainment based on the student's home locale and the location of their institution of attendance. Urban students who attended an urban institution were statistically significantly more likely to be retained. Rural students who attended a rural institution were statistically significantly more likely to attain their degree. Students who attended institutions that were in locations similar to their home locale had the highest retention and degree attainment.