Are you ready to elevate your institution’s online education offerings? If so, you’ve likely come across the term Online Program Management (OPM). An essential solution for universities looking to expand their digital presence.

But what exactly does OPM involve, and why is it essential for your institution?

Think of OPM as the strategic partner working behind the scenes, enabling universities and colleges to seamlessly create, launch, and manage online programs. From student recruitment and course design to technical support, OPM providers handle all the crucial details—allowing you to focus on what you do best: delivering exceptional education.

Recent studies have shown the growing importance of OPM in higher education. For example, a research from Eduventures indicated a 130% increase in institutions partnering with OPM providers between 2011 and 2015—a trend that has accelerated in recent years, especially in the post-pandemic era.

 If you’re considering partnering with an OPM, here’s what you need to know.

What is Online Program Management (OPM) for Higher Education?

In the world of education technology, OPM stands for Online Program Management—a comprehensive suite of services designed to help schools build and sustain a powerful online presence.

Simply put, OPM is a strategic partnership between educational institutions and specialized third-party companies. These companies provide the infrastructure and expertise needed to create, launch, and manage online courses, allowing schools to transition smoothly from traditional classrooms to dynamic, engaging online environments.

OPM providers bring deep experience and robust resources to the table, enabling institutions to offer high-quality online education without the need for significant in-house investment.

Key Services Provided by Online Program Management (OPM) Providers

OPM providers deliver a comprehensive range of services to support every aspect of online education. Here’s what they typically manage:

1. Student Recruitment: They use targeted marketing strategies to attract students who are a good fit for the programs.
2. Course Design and Development: Collaborating closely with your faculty, OPM teams design engaging, effective online courses. They often incorporate multimedia elements—like videos, interactive quizzes, and discussion forums—to create a rich learning experience.
3. Technology and Platform Management: They provide and manage the tech infrastructure, including Learning Management Systems (LMS), to ensure a seamless online learning experience.
4. Student Support Services: From technical support to academic advising, OPM providers ensure that students have the necessary resources and guidance to succeed throughout their educational journey.
5. Student Enrollment: They also handle the enrollment process from start to finish, making it easy for prospective students to get started.

By delivering these comprehensive services, OPM providers empower institutions to launch and sustain high-quality online programs, all without the need for significant upfront investment in new resources or infrastructure.

Curious about how OPM works in practice? Let’s dive deeper into the process!

How Online Program Management (OPM) Works for Universities?

In a typical scenario, universities partner with an OPM provider to launch a new degree, certificate, or credential program. The OPM provider takes care of essential tasks, from course development to marketing and student enrollment, allowing institutions to focus on education delivery.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of a typical OPM partnership:

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment:The process starts with a consultation where the OPM provider assesses the institution’s needs, goals, and current capabilities. This involves understanding the target audience, the types of programs to be offered, and the institution’s strategic objectives.
2. Agreement and Planning:Once both parties agree to collaborate, they draft a detailed plan outlining the roles, responsibilities, and expectations. This includes setting milestones, timelines, and performance metrics to ensure the partnership stays on track.
3. Program Development:The OPM provider works closely with the institution’s faculty and administration to design the curriculum, develop course content, and integrate appropriate technologies. This phase often includes pilot testing to refine the courses before full-scale launch.
4. Marketing and Recruitment:With the programs ready to go, the OPM provider launches targeted marketing campaigns to attract prospective students. They use data-driven strategies to reach the right audience and manage the entire enrollment process, from initial inquiries to admissions.
5. Implementation and Launch:The OPM provider sets up the Learning Management System (LMS) and other necessary platforms, ensuring they are user-friendly and accessible. They also provide training for faculty and staff to get them up to speed with the new tools and processes.
6. Ongoing Support and Improvement:After the program launches, the OPM provider continues to offer support in various areas such as technical assistance, student services, and performance monitoring. They regularly analyze data and feedback to make continuous improvements to the program.

Types of OPM Partnership Models

Institutions can choose from different partnership models based on their financial resources and goals. The two most common OPM models are:

Full-Service Revenue-Share Model

In the Full-Service Revenue-Share Model, the OPM provider covers the upfront costs of developing and launching the online program. In return, they receive a percentage of the revenue generated by the program. This model is particularly appealing for institutions that may not have the capital to invest heavily in online program development.

Key Features:

1. Minimal Upfront Costs:The institution benefits from minimal initial financial outlay. The OPM provider shoulders the costs associated with marketing, technology infrastructure, course development, and student support.
2. Shared Risk and Reward:Both the institution and the OPM provider share the financial risks and rewards. If the program is successful and generates high enrollment, both parties benefit from the increased revenue.
3. Comprehensive Services:The provider typically offers a full suite of services, including market research, recruitment, course design, technology management, and ongoing support. This all-inclusive approach ensures a cohesive and integrated online program.
4. Long-Term Partnership:These agreements often span several years, fostering a long-term partnership aimed at continuous improvement and growth of the online program.

Fee-for-Services Model

The Fee-for-Services Model operates on a more traditional business transaction basis. The institution pays the OPM provider for specific services rendered, without sharing the program’s revenue. This model can be customized based on the institution’s needs and budget.

Key Features:

1. Fixed Costs:The institution pays for services upfront or on a scheduled basis, which allows for more predictable budgeting. This can be advantageous for institutions with available capital who want to avoid revenue sharing.
2. Customizable Services:Institutions can select specific services a la carte, such as marketing, course development, or tech support. This flexibility allows institutions to retain more control over their programs.
3. Retained Revenue:Since there’s no revenue sharing, the institution retains all the profits from the program. This can be especially beneficial if the program achieves high enrollment and success.
4. Short-Term Contracts:Typically, these agreements are shorter and more flexible compared to revenue-share partnerships, allowing institutions to adapt quickly to changing needs and conditions.

Choosing between the Full-Service Revenue-Share Model and the Fee-for-Services Model depends on an institution’s financial situation, goals, and desire for control over the program.

The Full-Service Revenue-Share Model is ideal for those seeking minimal upfront costs and a comprehensive partnership, while the Fee-for-Services Model suits institutions that prefer to retain all revenue and have the capital to invest in specific services.

Key Benefits of OPM for Higher Education

Partnering with an Online Program Management (OPM) provider offers numerous advantages for higher education institutions looking to expand their online offerings. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Low Risks and Little Upfront Capital

One of the most compelling reasons to work with an OPM provider is the reduced financial risk. Many OPM partnerships, particularly those based on the Full-Service Revenue-Share Model, require little to no upfront investment from the institution. The OPM provider covers the initial costs associated with developing, marketing, and launching the online programs.

• Minimal Initial Investment: Institutions can launch comprehensive online programs without needing significant capital outlay, making it accessible even for those with limited budgets.
• Shared Financial Risk: The OPM provider shares the financial risk, as their revenue is tied to the program’s success. This alignment of interests can lead to more robust support and effort from the provider to ensure the program’s success.
• Financial Flexibility: With the reduced need for upfront capital, institutions can allocate their financial resources to other critical areas, such as campus improvements, faculty development, or new academic initiatives.

2. Efficient Student Recruitment and Increased Enrollment

OPM providers bring specialized expertise in student recruitment and marketing, which can significantly boost enrollment numbers. They employ data-driven strategies to attract and retain students who are a good fit for the program.

• Targeted Marketing Campaigns: OPM providers use sophisticated marketing techniques, including digital advertising, social media campaigns, and search engine optimization, to reach prospective students effectively.
• Enhanced Visibility: Leveraging their marketing resources and industry knowledge, OPM providers can increase the institution’s visibility and reputation in the online education space.
• Higher Enrollment Rates: With focused recruitment efforts, institutions often see a substantial increase in enrollment, ensuring that the online programs are not only launched successfully but also sustained over time.

3. Technical Support and Tailored Marketing

OPM providers offer extensive technical support and customized marketing strategies, ensuring that the online programs run smoothly and attract the right audience.

• Comprehensive Tech Support: From setting up and maintaining the Learning Management System (LMS) to providing ongoing technical assistance to students and faculty, OPM providers handle all technical aspects. This support ensures a seamless and effective learning experience.
• Course Development and Instructional Design: OPM teams work closely with faculty to design engaging and interactive online courses. They bring expertise in instructional design, multimedia integration, and best practices in online pedagogy.
• Customized Marketing Strategies: OPM providers develop tailored marketing plans that align with the institution’s goals and target demographics. This personalized approach ensures that marketing efforts are more effective and resonate with prospective students.

Now that we’ve explored the benefits, let’s dive into the key factors you should consider when choosing an OPM provider to ensure a successful and fruitful partnership.

How to Choose the Right OPM Provider for Your Institution

Choosing the right Online Program Management (OPM) provider is crucial for the success of your online programs. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Technical Solutions and Integration

A reliable OPM provider should offer robust technical solutions that seamlessly integrate with your institution’s existing systems. This ensures a smooth and efficient online learning experience for both students and faculty.

• Learning Management System (LMS) Integration: Ensure that the OPM provider’s LMS can integrate seamlessly with your current systems. This includes compatibility with student information systems (SIS), library resources, and other institutional platforms.
• Scalability and Flexibility: The technical solutions provided should be scalable to accommodate growth in student enrollment and adaptable to evolving technological needs.
• Technical Support: Look for providers that offer comprehensive technical support, including 24/7 helpdesk services for students and faculty. This support is vital for addressing technical issues promptly and maintaining a positive learning experience.

2. Engaging Course Designs and Strategic Recruitment Plans

Effective course design and strategic recruitment are essential components of a successful online program. The right OPM provider should excel in both areas.

• Instructional Design Expertise: The provider should have a team of skilled instructional designers who can collaborate with your faculty to create engaging, interactive, and pedagogically sound online courses.
• Multimedia and Content Creation: Ensure the provider can develop high-quality multimedia content, such as videos, animations, and interactive modules, to enhance the learning experience.
• Recruitment Strategies: The OPM provider should implement strategic recruitment plans that target the right student demographics. This includes leveraging data analytics to identify and reach potential students effectively.
• Retention Focus: Beyond recruitment, the provider should also have strategies in place to support student retention and success, ensuring that students are not only enrolled but also engaged and progressing towards completion.

3. Comprehensive Marketing Strategies and Transparency

Marketing is a critical aspect of attracting students to your online programs. Transparency in operations and reporting is equally important to ensure that the partnership remains aligned with your institution’s goals.

• Targeted Marketing Campaigns: The OPM provider should have a proven track record of executing comprehensive marketing campaigns that utilize digital marketing, social media, search engine optimization, and other channels to reach potential students.
• Brand Alignment: Ensure that the marketing strategies align with your institution’s brand and values, presenting a consistent and authentic message to prospective students.
• Transparency and Reporting: The provider should offer clear and transparent reporting on marketing efforts, student recruitment, and program performance. Regular updates and detailed analytics help you understand the impact of the OPM provider’s services and make informed decisions.
• Ethical Practices: Verify that the OPM provider follows ethical marketing practices, including clear communication with prospective students about program details, costs, and outcomes.

Fast track Your Future With Astria Learning

At Astria Learning, we understand that a successful partnership between OPM providers and higher education institutions goes beyond services—it requires a shared passion for reinventing education.

We’re here to connect you with a world of aspiring students and to elevate your brand, ensuring it stands out in a competitive landscape. Our strategies are always evolving, adapting to the dynamic e-learning environment.

Most importantly, we ensure that every step we take aligns with your institution’s core mission. At Astria Learning, we believe that education is more than just a revenue generator—it’s about shaping the future.

Ready to launch the next generation of learning opportunities? Contact us Today. Let’s build the future together.

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