Overview
Kaplan University, now part of Purdue University as Purdue University Global, plays a significant role in the educational sector. Established in 1937, Kaplan University has built a legacy of providing diverse educational pathways. Its parent company, Kaplan Inc., is a global educational services provider known for its comprehensive curricula and partnerships with individuals, businesses, and universities worldwide.
Academic Offering and Reputation
Kaplan University offered over 180 programs before it amalgamated into Purdue Global, focusing on flexible, customized education that assists students in achieving their career objectives. The institution was recognized for its support of military personnel through friendly policies and reduced tuition rates. Notably, 88% of alumni reported that their education met expectations, and 86% found it relevant to their career paths. Kaplan maintains its mission through various subsidiaries, holding prestigious accreditations like those from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and The Higher Learning Commission, ensuring a commitment to quality education.
Leadership and Corporate Structure
The leadership at Kaplan is spearheaded by Andrew S. Rosen, Chairman and CEO, overseeing strategic direction and international operations. Melissa Mack serves as Chief Communications & HR Officer, while Matthew Seelye is the Chief Financial Officer, managing financial strategies. Yael Aufgang manages the legal framework as General Counsel, and Tom Horton handles strategic corporate development as Executive Vice President. Gregory Marino and David Jones lead Kaplan North America and Kaplan International, respectively, focusing on educational accessibility and international pathways.
Financial Insights and Achievements
Kaplan University has reported estimated annual revenues of approximately $108.5 million. It has been recognized on the Inc. 2024 Best in Business list for its innovative approaches to career pathing, illustrating its significant impact and adaptability in the educational landscape. Despite financial successes, challenges such as substantial accounts receivable from partnerships remain, necessitating ongoing financial negotiations.
Recent Developments and Industry Recognition
Kaplan has received accolades for its initiatives, like the All Access License, earning a spot in Fast Company’s 2024 World Changing Ideas. The company is committed to innovation and educational accessibility, highlighted by recognitions like the Great Place To Work Certification.
Competitor Profile
Kaplan University operates in the educational sector, particularly focusing on online and flexible learning solutions. Key competitors include:
1. Career Education Corporation - Offers career-focused programs competing with Kaplan in delivering specific educational services.
2. Graham Holdings (includes Kaplan, Inc.) - A diverse conglomerate in publishing and online education, it competes as a sibling entity within the same group.
3. Ashford University - Provides flexible online courses in various disciplines, competing in the same segment as Kaplan.
4. Laureate Education - Known for international education services that present competition through global outreach and diversified models.
5. Apollo Education Group - Known for for-profit education services, including the University of Phoenix, competing for online and campus-based market share.
6. University of Phoenix - Specializes in adult education and flexible online learning, directly competing with Kaplan's strategy.
7. Pearson Education - Competes through educational resources and learning technologies with innovative solutions.
8. The Study Group - Focuses on international student pathway programs to leading universities, a competitive area for Kaplan.
9. Navitas - Offers pathway programs integrating international students into Western universities, similar to Kaplan's offerings.
10. Purdue University Global - As a part of a large public university, it competes in online education targeting working adults with reputable offerings.
11. Strategic Education, Inc. - Resulting from a merger, leveraging technological advancements similar to Kaplan.
12. Grand Canyon University - Offers a broad range of programs both online and on-campus, overlapping with Kaplan’s market.
Financial Insights
Kaplan University's estimated annual revenue is around $108.5 million, with revenue per employee at approximately $225,000, supported by a workforce of around 482 employees. This illustrates Kaplan's operational scale in online education.
Competitive Edge
Kaplan’s competitive advantage lies in its comprehensive, flexible learning platform tailored to students’ career-focused needs, appealing to working adults seeking education without disrupting their careers.
