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A Decade of Growth, Access, and Student Success

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University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) Case Study

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Overview

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What began as a strategic collaboration in 2016 to help address critical workforce shortages has grown into a model of sustained enrollment growth, outstanding retention, and meaningful student outcomes.

With more than 1,000 learners graduated or on track to graduate, UNR’s Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited online Master of Social Work (MSW) program stands as a testament to what university-partner collaboration can achieve when it is built on trust, innovation, and a relentless commitment to the learner.

With Nevada's only online MSW program, working professionals, adult learners, and students in rural communities can pursue an advanced degree without relocating or interrupting their careers.

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AT A GLANCE

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MSW enrollment has increased 10x since 2016

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98.3% average continuing student return rate over five years

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94.2% average new student return rate over five years

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34% growth in total student population (Fall 2018–Fall 2025)

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1,036 learners graduated or on track to graduate by Fall 2025

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THE CHALLENGE

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Before 2016, students seeking a Master of Social Work online had limited options. For many prospective learners — particularly working professionals, parents, and residents outside major metropolitan areas — earning the degree required relocating or leaving the workforce. UNR sought to expand access while maintaining the academic quality and student support expected of its nationally recognized program.

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THE SOLUTION

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The only online MSW in Nevada

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UNR partnered with Boundless Learning to design a learner-centered online experience spanning enrollment, marketing, student support, instructional design, and ongoing program strategy.

Throughout the partnership, both organizations have remained focused on a shared objective: reducing barriers to education by offering the only online MSW program in the state.

Working collaboratively, UNR and Boundless Learning refined admissions processes to improve access for qualified applicants, including:

Reducing required letters of recommendation from three to two
Introducing a conditional admissions pathway for applicants with GPAs between 2.5 and 2.75
Continuously reviewing policies with program leadership to remove barriers to entry while maintaining academic standards
Opening the program to applicants with bachelor’s degrees from a variety of fields by creating a 30-credit-hour advanced standing track (BSW degree holders) and 60-credit-hour traditional track (non-BSW degree holders)

The result is an accessible and academically rigorous admissions process.

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Our work with UNR has truly been a partnership in every sense. Together, we’ve focused on keeping learners at the center — meeting them where they are and supporting their unique needs. The growth we’ve achieved together reflects the shared commitment, dedication, and collaborative spirit of this partnership.”

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— Tricia Drummond, Senior Director of Partnership Strategy and Engagement, Boundless Learning

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Supporting learners throughout the journey

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Student success extends well beyond enrollment.

Dedicated enrollment advisors develop deep expertise in the online MSW program, providing prospective students with individualized guidance throughout the admissions process. Once enrolled, learners receive proactive support through phone, email, text, and virtual outreach, with advisors using engagement data to identify students who may benefit from additional assistance before challenges arise.

This personalized approach has contributed to consistently strong retention rates across the program and helped create a learning experience built around responsiveness, flexibility, and meaningful human connection.

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UNR’s willingness to work with both us and the students has been one of the defining strengths of this partnership. Together, we have adapted the program to remove barriers for qualified learners. That kind of flexibility, backed by strong support from program leadership, is what makes this program so accessible and so successful.”

— Jessica Valenzuela,
Director of Enrollment, Boundless Learning

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Personalized outreach is foundational to building strong student relationships and driving retention. When outreach is intentional and timed to key moments in the learner journey, it shifts support from reactive to proactive. Learners are more likely to persist when they feel seen, heard, and guided — rather than navigating challenges alone. By using multiple touchpoints, open-ended dialogue, and individualized success plans, outreach becomes a partnership rather than a check-in.”

— Erick Edmond
Director of Student Success, Boundless Learning

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THE OUTCOME

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The partnership has produced sustained, measurable outcomes over 10 years. Enrollment has increased tenfold since the program launched, while student retention has remained consistently high. The program has also generated strong referral activity from current students and alumni, reflecting high levels of learner satisfaction and a strong program reputation.

More importantly, the partnership has expanded access to graduate education for learners across Nevada while strengthening the pipeline of qualified social work professionals serving communities throughout the state.

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The Boundless Learning team has been an exceptional partner in helping us fulfill our mission to serve students. Their expertise in online program management, combined with their genuine care for student outcomes, has allowed us to expand access to social work education in ways we could not have achieved alone."

— Dr. Lillian C. Wichinsky
Dean, School of Social Work, University of Nevada, Reno

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The Boundless Learning team truly understands what our students need — not just as graduate learners, but as future social workers committed to serving their communities. The personalized support our students receive from enrollment through graduation reflects values that align deeply with social work itself: empathy, advocacy, and belief in human potential. I am proud of what we have built together and excited about where this program will go.”

— Dr. Eugenia L. Weiss
Associate Dean, School of Social Work, University of Nevada, Reno

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What distinguishes this partnership is the shared commitment to removing barriers for students. From flexible admissions pathways to responsive student support, Boundless Learning has helped us ensure that qualified learners can access this program regardless of their circumstances."

— Dr. Malikah Marrus
Program Director, Online Master of Social Work, University of Nevada, Reno

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I am continually impressed by the University's commitment to serving working adult learners. The MSW program is thoughtfully designed to meet students where they are, while maintaining academic excellence. Faculty members consistently go above and beyond to support student learning and engagement. Additionally, the accessibility and dedication demonstrated by leadership and support teams, including the Dean, Assistant Dean, Program Directors, Academic Advisors, and the Field Resource Team, create an environment where students feel valued and supported throughout their educational journey.”

— Nicole DeWater
Student Support Advisor, Online Master of Social Work, University of Nevada, Reno

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Looking ahead

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The partnership between UNR and Boundless Learning continues to evolve as demand for flexible, high-quality graduate education grows.

Together, the organizations remain committed to expanding educational access, strengthening Nevada's human services workforce, and helping more learners achieve their academic and professional goals.

More than 1,000 graduates represent a significant milestone — and they are only the beginning.

Our partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno extends well beyond Nevada, connecting learners across the country with high-quality educational opportunities. Through a proven enrollment and student success model, we combine data-informed recruitment with personalized support to help students succeed from their first inquiry through graduation. As we continue to grow our national footprint, we are expanding access to the University of Nevada, Reno for learners wherever they call home.

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