Degree Name
MS (Master of Science)
Program
Mathematical Sciences
Date of Award
12-2017
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Michele Joyner
Committee Members
Robert Gardner, Christina N. Lewis
Abstract
Discrete-time Markov chain models can be used to make future predictions in many important fields including education. Government and educational institutions today are concerned about college enrollment and what impacts the number of students enrolling. One challenge is how to make an accurate prediction about student enrollment so institutions can plan appropriately. In this thesis, we model student enrollment at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) with a discrete-time Markov chain model developed using ETSU student data from Fall 2008 to Spring 2017. In this thesis, we focus on the progression from one level to another within the university system including graduation and dropout probabilities as indicated by the data. We further include the probability that a student will leave school for a limited period of time and then return to the institution. We conclude with a simulation of the model and a comparison to the trends seen in the data.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Mamudu, Lohuwa, "Modeling Student Enrollment at ETSU Using a Discrete-Time Markov Chain Model" (2017). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 3310. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/3310
Copyright
Copyright by Lohuwa Mamudu
Included in
Adult and Continuing Education Administration Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons