Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses

Date of Award

2013

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

First Advisor

C. Skip Trudeau

Second Advisor

Scott Gaier

Third Advisor

Mark Raikes

Abstract

Despite the prevalence of campus closures, there is a lack of literature discussing the impact on a variety of constituencies. This study was conducted to explore one particular campus closing. The study sought to answer the following research question: How and in what ways does the closing of a branch campus affect the traditionally-aged, full-time, residential, undergraduate student over time? Employing the qualitative research methodology of narrative research design, the researcher conducted interviews with seven participants who met the pre-determined qualifications. The interviews provided themes shared by the participants, which led to a more complete perspective on what students faced due to the campus closure and a representation of the overall campus closing experience. The key findings of the study were the following: the importance of relationships and the campus community, the prevalence of change in emotions and feelings, and the lasting effects on students. Summarizing the themes, the participants all expressed emotional closure from the experience and voiced their thankfulness for enduring the situation.

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