Doane University Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Doane University, established in 1872, is a private institution located in Crete, Nebraska, with additional campuses in Lincoln and Omaha. As the oldest private university in Nebraska, Doane has a longstanding commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The university offers a comprehensive liberal arts education, preparing students for careers and lives grounded in inquiry, ethics, and a commitment to leadership and service.

Mission and Values

Doane University's mission is to create distinctive educational experiences rooted in the liberal arts, aiming to prepare students for careers and lives grounded in inquiry, ethics, and a commitment to lead and serve in the global community. The institution upholds values of inclusion, integrity, innovation, and transformation, fostering an environment where all individuals can fully participate and thrive.

Key Strategic Focus

Academic Programs

Doane University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its various colleges:

College of Arts and Sciences: Provides over 25 undergraduate majors.

College of Business: Offers undergraduate majors in accounting, agribusiness, business administration, and economics, along with graduate degrees such as the Master of Arts in Leadership and Master of Business Administration.

College of Education: Provides undergraduate degrees in Elementary Education, Special Education, Secondary Education, and Physical and Health Education, as well as graduate programs including Masters of Education in Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, and School Counseling; Master of Arts in Counseling; Education Specialist Degree; Doctorate of Education; and Initial Certification at the Advanced Level.

School of Innovative Learning: Offers undergraduate majors in health sciences and exercise science, houses the Masters Degree in Instructional Design and Technology, and manages Doane's Open Learning Academy and DoaneX partnership with edX.

Technological Integration

Doane University is committed to integrating advanced technologies into its educational framework. The university has implemented a high-performance, secure wired and wireless infrastructure to support digital, immersive, AI, and IoT technologies, enhancing the academic and operational experience for students and staff.

Financials and Funding

Endowment

As of the end of the 2022 fiscal year, Doane University's endowment was valued at approximately $124 million, reflecting an 11.2% decline from the previous year.

Tuition and Financial Aid

In 2022, the median undergraduate tuition was $38,190, which is $9,860 more than the national average for Baccalaureate Colleges. After accounting for grants and loans, the average net price for students was $24,271. Notably, 91% of undergraduate students received financial aid through grants, and 74% received aid through loans.

Pipeline Development

Entrepreneurship Program

Doane University's entrepreneurship program prepares students to become future business owners and leaders by developing the knowledge and practices needed to solve existing problems through creativity and innovation. The program emphasizes organizational development, marketing, financial viability, and sound business planning, offering students opportunities to learn from experienced entrepreneurs through mentorship, class visits, and case studies.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Infrastructure Enhancements

To support its digital-first vision, Doane University has upgraded its network infrastructure, implementing high-performance, secure wired and wireless systems. This modernization includes AI-powered Wi-Fi 6E and advanced data security measures, enabling seamless digital experiences and supporting cutting-edge academic innovations.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

President: Roger Hughes

Chief Information Officer: Derek Bierman

Director of Technology Operations: Ryan Dorshorst

These leaders have been instrumental in driving the university's strategic initiatives, particularly in technological advancements and academic program development.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Doane University operates within the competitive landscape of private liberal arts colleges in the Midwest. The market is characterized by institutions offering comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing personalized education and innovative learning experiences.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Grinnell College: Known for its rigorous academics and strong endowment.

Central College: Offers a broad range of programs with a focus on experiential learning.

Luther College: Emphasizes a liberal arts education with a global perspective.

Midland University: Provides diverse programs with a commitment to innovation.

Hastings College: Focuses on personalized education and community engagement.

These institutions share similarities with Doane University in terms of program offerings and educational philosophy, contributing to a competitive environment.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Doane University has established significant partnerships to enhance its educational offerings and technological capabilities. Notably, the university collaborated with HPE Aruba Networking to develop a hyper-connected academic environment, integrating advanced digital, AI, and IoT technologies into its infrastructure.

Operational Insights

Doane University's strategic focus on technological integration and personalized education positions it distinctively among its competitors. The university's commitment to innovation, as demonstrated by its infrastructure enhancements and program developments, provides a competitive advantage in attracting students seeking a modern and comprehensive educational experience.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, Doane University aims to further its digital-first initiatives, expanding the integration of advanced technologies into its academic and operational frameworks. The university plans to leverage its upgraded infrastructure to support new research partnerships, enhance student engagement through advanced analytics, and continue developing programs that align with emerging industry needs.