A Qualitative Exploration of University Center Models in Michigan

To attain a financially comfortable life and to compete and flourish in society, a college
degree is critical, particularly a baccalaureate. Earning a baccalaureate may seem almost
impossible for students facing the challenges of place- and time-bound circumstances. With
continued decrease of student enrollment and reduced state funding, higher education
institutions are experiencing significant shortfalls, shaking the sustainability of higher education
institution. Community colleges and four-year institutions have collaborated to create what is
often referred to as University Centers to address these issues.
This qualitative research study examined University Center models in Michigan with the
purpose to describe, analyze, interpret, and understand the perceived and actual operations
through the perception of the host college’s leadership. The first goal of the study was to define
the design model for the University Centers in Michigan. The second goal examined the
purpose of University Centers and focused on these key roles: (1) increasing opportunity for
student access and success, (2) providing financial stability for the host community college and
its partners, (3) making positive community impact, and (4) ensuring a continuum of education.
The third goal of the study was to explore the success of the partnerships between the
community college and four-year institutions. Four conclusions were fostered from this
exploration: (1) University Centers are serving an important purpose and have been successful
across Michigan; (2) University Centers are addressing the needs of local students; (3) University Centers provide a level of financial stability to both partner institutions; and (4) University Centers provide a means to make a positive community impact.