Abstract:

This paper discusses the impact that co-curricular activities have on student engagement in higher education. Student engagement has been studied extensively by many authors, and each has provided a framework for understanding the various approaches to increasing engagement of students. This paper approaches the topic of student engagement by examining the use of a Health Services Administration Club to analyze how the on- and off-campus activities have increased engagement and retention. This study utilizes feedback from an online survey provided to current members of the club These data were used to gain an understanding of their level of engagement as they participated in activities. This study also answers the question of how can a college create a discipline-specific club to increase engagement and retention of students so that they are provided with the tools they need for long-term academic and professional success.

Keywords:

Student Engagement, Co-curricular activities, Engagement and Innovation, Student Retention, Healthcare.