The world of education marketing is changing fast. This week’s stories show how schools and universities are rethinking old habits and leaning into smarter, more focused strategies. Whether it’s SEO, brand messaging, or email outreach, one thing is clear: knowing your audience and being clear about your message matters more than ever.
Diana Salazar’s guide on SEO for private schools starts us off with practical steps to stand out online. It breaks down how schools can improve visibility by using keywords that reflect what families are really searching for. From on-page tweaks to link building and local SEO, this is a hands-on playbook that makes SEO feel doable.
Hear this week’s roundup as a Podcast:
In another piece, Ray dives into microlearning and andragogy—two key trends in adult education. The article shows that adults don’t want long lectures. They want short, focused lessons that respect their time and build on what they already know. It’s a shift that could reshape how continuing ed programs work.
Branding is the focus of Scott Ochander’s piece. He shares how colleges can stand out by crafting a strong brand story and sticking to it across every channel—from websites to social media. It’s not just about having a logo. It’s about showing students why your school matters.
One of the more surprising insights this week comes from EAB’s article asking if email is dead. The short answer? Not at all. If done right—with good timing, real personalization, and smart use of data—email is still a top tool for reaching prospective students.
Finally, there’s a wake-up call for anyone not updating their SEO strategies for the age of AI. With voice assistants and AI-driven search engines becoming the norm, schools need to think beyond basic keywords. EAB’s latest post offers clear, forward-thinking ideas on how to stay visible in this new landscape.
5 Common Takeaways
- Clear, consistent messaging matters more than flashy design.
- Personalized communication—especially via email—still works.
- Microlearning helps busy adults stay engaged.
- SEO needs constant updates, especially with AI in the mix.
- Data and feedback are key for refining strategies.
5 Controversial Ideas
- Traditional email marketing isn’t dead—it just needs smarter execution.
- One-size-fits-all education no longer fits anyone, especially adults.
- Branding isn’t just for consumer products—schools must invest in it too.
- Some schools still ignore local SEO, even though it’s a low-cost win.
- AI search may soon outpace old-school SEO strategies.
Private School Marketing: SEO Strategies for Visibility
Diana Salazar
2025-04-23T13:55:10.000Z
Optimizing SEO for Private Schools: Best Practices to Increase Online Visibility
Synopsis:
- The article provides best practices for private schools to optimize their SEO and increase their online visibility.
- It explains the importance of SEO in improving website ranking and generating organic traffic.
- The author emphasizes the need for keyword research to identify the most relevant and effective keywords and phrases.
- The article discusses on-page optimization techniques, including optimizing meta tags, headers, content, and images.
- It highlights the significance of creating high-quality and engaging content to attract and retain visitors.
- The author suggests utilizing local SEO strategies to target potential students and parents in specific geographic areas.
- The article also covers off-page techniques such as link building, social media marketing, and online directories to improve SEO.
- It provides tips for optimizing website speed, mobile-friendliness, and user experience to enhance search engine rankings.
- The importance of monitoring and analyzing SEO efforts is emphasized, with recommendations for using analytics tools.
- The author encourages private schools to stay updated with SEO trends and algorithm changes to adapt their strategies accordingly.
Background Resources:
- None mentioned in the article.
Noteworthy Positions:
- The author advises private schools to focus on local SEO strategies to target specific geographic areas.
- Emphasis is placed on creating high-quality, engaging content to attract and retain visitors.
- The importance of staying updated with SEO trends and algorithm changes is emphasized.
Summary with Takeaways:
- Private schools can improve their online visibility and attract more students by optimizing their SEO efforts.
- Keyword research, on-page and off-page optimization, and creating high-quality content are key practices.
- Local SEO strategies can help target potential students and parents in specific geographic areas.
- Regular monitoring and analysis of SEO efforts, along with staying updated with trends, is crucial.
Boost SEO for #PrivateSchools 🏫🔍: Use keywords, optimize pages, create content & target locals! 💻📈 #EdTech #DigitalMarketing
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The Role of Microlearning and Andragogy in Enhancing Online Student Engagement
https://continuingedupdate.blogspot.com/2025/04/the-role-of-microlearning-and-andragogy.html
2025-04-23T10:10:00.000Z
The Role of Microlearning and Andragogy in Continuing Education
Synopsis:
- The article discusses the significance of microlearning and andragogy in the field of continuing education.
- It emphasizes the importance of tailoring learning experiences to adult learners’ specific needs and preferences.
- The author explores the benefits of microlearning, such as its ability to fit into busy schedules and provide bite-sized information.
- The article also highlights the key principles of andragogy, focusing on self-directed learning and utilizing learners’ prior experiences.
- The author provides examples of how microlearning and andragogy can be effectively combined in continuing education programs.
- Background resources cited: Various publications on andragogy and adult learning theories.
Unique/Noteworthy Positions:
- The author argues that traditional one-size-fits-all approaches to education are not suitable for adult learners.
- The article promotes the idea that microlearning and andragogy can enhance engagement and retention among adult learners.
Summary and Takeaways:
- Microlearning and andragogy are powerful tools for improving continuing education experiences for adult learners.
- By harnessing the benefits of microlearning, such as flexibility and efficiency, programs can cater to busy adult schedules.
- Adopting andragogy principles, like encouraging self-directed learning and leveraging prior experiences, enables more effective adult education.
- Combining microlearning and andragogy can lead to increased engagement and knowledge retention.
- Continuing education providers should consider incorporating these strategies to meet the unique needs of adult learners.
💡Microlearning + Andragogy = adult ed win! 📚 Bite-sized, self-led learning boosts engagement. 💪 #AdultLearning #Microlearning #Andragogy
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How to Build a Higher Ed Brand Strategy
https://www.carnegiehighered.com/blog/crafting-higher-ed-brand-strategies
2025-04-21T17:17:12.000Z
Crafting Higher Ed Brand Strategies
Synopsis:
- Many higher education institutions struggle with developing effective brand strategies.
- This article discusses the importance of brand positioning, differentiation, and messaging in higher education.
- The author explores how to identify a unique selling proposition and target audience.
- The article provides examples of successful brand strategies implemented by various universities.
- The author emphasizes the need for consistent messaging and storytelling across all communication channels.
- The article also discusses the role of social media and digital platforms in brand building for higher education institutions.
Background Resources:
- The author references the American Marketing Association for definitions and concepts related to branding.
- The article mentions case studies of universities such as Yale, Tufts, and University of California.
Unique or Noteworthy Positions:
- The author emphasizes the importance of storytelling in brand strategies for higher education institutions.
- The article highlights the role of social media and digital platforms in reaching and engaging with target audiences.
Summary and Takeaways:
- Developing a strong brand strategy is crucial for higher education institutions.
- Identifying a unique selling proposition and target audience is key.
- Consistent messaging and storytelling across all communication channels is essential.
- Social media and digital platforms are valuable tools for brand building in higher education.
- Successful brand strategies of universities serve as inspiration and examples.
A strong brand strategy is key for higher ed! 🎓🏫 Consistent messaging, storytelling & digital platforms drive success. 📚🌐 #HigherEdBranding #EducationMarketing
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Is email marketing to prospective students dead? Not so fast.
2025-04-21T12:00:00.000Z
Is Email Marketing to Prospective Students Dead? Not So Fast!
Synopsis:
- The article discusses the effectiveness of email marketing in reaching prospective students for enrollment purposes.
- It challenges the notion that email marketing is dying and presents evidence to support its continued significance in student recruitment.
- The author identifies the need for a strategic and personalized approach to email marketing campaigns in order to engage prospective students effectively.
- Various statistics and studies are cited to highlight the effectiveness of email as a communication tool with college-bound students.
- The article explores the role of email in the student journey, from initial awareness to enrollment, and emphasizes the importance of targeted messaging.
- The author suggests leveraging data and analytics to personalize email content, improve open rates, and drive engagement.
- Noteworthy position: The author argues against dismissing email marketing as outdated and highlights its potential to connect with prospective students when used strategically.
Takeaways:
- Effective email marketing remains a valuable tool in student recruitment.
- Personalization and targeted messaging are key to engaging prospective students.
- Data and analytics can enhance email campaigns’ impact and outcomes.
- Email plays a vital role in the student journey, from awareness to enrollment.
- Strategic approach and continuous optimization are necessary for successful email marketing.
📧🎓 Is email marketing dead for student recruitment? Not at all! 📩 Targeted messaging, personalization & data make it effective. #EmailMarketing #StudentRecruitment
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What makes your graduate program different? How to find—and prove—your value proposition
2025-04-21T12:00:00.000Z
What Makes Your Graduate Program Different? How to Find and Prove Your Value Proposition
Synopsis:
- Many graduate programs struggle to differentiate themselves from competing programs.
- Identifying and articulating a unique value proposition is crucial.
- Steps to find and prove your value proposition:
- Understand the needs and desires of your target audience.
- Conduct market research and gather feedback from students and alumni.
- Identify distinctive features, strengths, and outcomes of your program.
- Focus on the specific benefits your program offers.
- Utilize data and evidence to support your claims.
- Develop effective messaging and marketing strategies.
- A well-defined value proposition can attract more prospective students and increase program success.
Background Resources:
- None mentioned in the article.
Unique/Noteworthy Positions:
- The article emphasizes the importance of conducting market research, gathering feedback from stakeholders, and utilizing data and evidence to support your value proposition.
Summary and Takeaways:
- Graduate programs must find and prove their unique value proposition to stand out.
- Understanding target audience needs, conducting market research, and gathering feedback are crucial steps.
- Identifying program strengths, benefits, and outcomes is essential in crafting an effective value proposition.
- Data and evidence should be used to support claims.
- Effective messaging and marketing strategies play a vital role.
- A well-defined value proposition enhances program success and attracts prospective students.
🎓 Struggling to stand out in grad programs? 🌟 Know your audience, use data & highlight benefits for impactful messaging! #HigherEd #GradSchoolSuccess 💼
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The new rules for .edu keyword optimization in AI search
2025-04-21T12:00:00.000Z
The New Rules for Edu Keyword Optimization in AI Search
Synopsis:
- The article discusses the importance of keyword optimization in AI search for educational institutions.
- The author emphasizes that traditional search engine optimization (SEO) strategies need to be adapted for AI-driven search engines.
- The rise of voice assistants and AI technologies has changed the way people search for information.
- The article provides insights and recommendations for incorporating AI-oriented keyword optimization techniques.
Background Resources:
- No background resources are cited in the article.
Noteworthy Positions:
- The author suggests that educational institutions should focus on long-tail keywords and natural language phrases to enhance their search visibility in AI-driven platforms.
- They also emphasize the need to optimize for voice search, as voice assistants play a significant role in retrieving information.
- The article argues that being featured in search snippets, also known as “position zero” results, should be a priority for edu keyword optimization.
Summary & Takeaways:
- Keyword optimization for AI search engines requires a different approach compared to traditional SEO.
- Long-tail keywords and natural language phrases should be prioritized to align with user search patterns.
- Educational institutions should optimize for voice search, given the increasing popularity of voice assistants.
- Featured snippets, or “position zero” results, should be pursued to improve visibility in AI-driven search engines.
🔍💡 AI-driven search engines need new keyword strategies! Focus on long-tail keywords, voice search, & “position zero” to stay ahead. #AIsearch #EduSEO
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Student Search Behavior is Changing. What Does It Mean for Higher Ed Marketing?
https://simpsonscarborough.com/blog/student-search-behavior-is-changing/
2025-04-18T19:44:06.000Z
Student Search Behavior is Changing
Synopsis:
- Recent survey by SimpsonScarborough found that prospective college students increasingly turn to online resources when researching colleges and universities.
- Traditional outreach methods like college fairs and campus visits have declined in popularity.
- Students prefer websites, social media, and peer recommendations as their primary sources of information.
- The study also revealed that students are more likely to make decisions based on affordability, job prospects, and student outcomes rather than prestige or rankings.
- Colleges and universities need to adapt their marketing strategies to meet the changing needs and expectations of prospective students.
Noteworthy Positions:
- The author emphasizes the need for colleges and universities to prioritize online presence and engage with prospective students through digital platforms.
- The study challenges the importance of traditional outreach methods and raises questions about their effectiveness.
Takeaways:
- Online resources have become a vital source of information for prospective college students.
- Colleges and universities should focus on developing attractive and informative websites and engaging with students through social media platforms.
- Affordability and student outcomes are more important factors in decision-making than prestige or rankings.
🎓🖥️ @SimpsonScarbo’s survey shows students’ search behavior is changing—online resources, social media & affordability are key. Colleges must adapt! #HigherEd #DigitalAge
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How Higher Ed Institutions Can Plan for Pell Grant Changes
https://www.carnegiehighered.com/blog/planning-for-pell-grant-changes
2025-04-17T17:57:40.000Z
Planning for Pell Grant Changes
- The article discusses the upcoming changes to the Pell Grant program and provides guidance for students and institutions on how to plan accordingly.
- The Pell Grant program, the largest source of federal financial aid for college students, is undergoing significant changes that will impact eligibility, award amounts, and administration.
- The changes include the restoration of eligibility for incarcerated individuals, an increase in the maximum award amount, expansion of eligibility for a shorter-term program, and the inclusion of DACA recipients.
- The article highlights the importance of understanding these changes and how they will affect students and institutions.
- Students are advised to stay informed about the changes and review their eligibility criteria to ensure they can take advantage of the program.
- Institutions are encouraged to update their financial aid policies and procedures to accommodate the changes and provide accurate information to students.
- The author emphasizes the need for collaboration between institutions and students to navigate the changes effectively and maximize the benefits of the Pell Grant program.
Takeaways:
- The Pell Grant program is undergoing significant changes that will impact eligibility and award amounts.
- Students should stay informed and review their eligibility criteria to take full advantage of the program.
- Institutions need to update their financial aid policies and procedures to accommodate the changes and support students effectively.
🎓✅ Exciting Pell Grant updates! More aid, restored eligibility, and expanded access. Students & schools, maximize these benefits! #PellGrantChanges #HigherEdAid
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Key Findings from 2024 UPCEA Marketing Survey
https://upcea.edu/key-findings-from-2024-upcea-marketing-survey/
2025-04-17T13:00:43.000Z
Key Findings from 2024 UPCEA Marketing Survey
Synopsis:
- The UPCEA (University Professional and Continuing Education Association) conducted a marketing survey in 2024 to gather insights into the latest trends and strategies in higher education marketing.
- The survey found that digital marketing continues to be the dominant and most effective strategy for universities and colleges.
- Institutions are utilizing a mix of channels including email marketing, social media, search engine optimization (SEO), and content marketing to reach their target audience.
- Personalization of marketing messages and using data analytics to inform decision-making are gaining importance.
- Mobile optimization of websites and digital platforms is necessary due to the growing prevalence of mobile usage among prospective students.
- Institutions are investing more in paid online advertising and expanding their presence on platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads.
- Despite the rise of digital marketing, traditional marketing methods like print advertising and direct mail still have their place in higher education marketing.
- Collaboration between marketing and admissions departments is increasing to align strategies and improve student recruitment efforts.
Background Resources:
- The UPCEA Marketing Survey 2024 report
- Relevant data and statistics on higher education marketing trends
Unique/Noteworthy Positions:
- The survey reveals that mobile optimization and personalization of marketing messages are becoming crucial for the success of higher education marketing efforts.
- The continued use of traditional marketing methods alongside digital strategies indicates that a multi-channel approach is necessary.
- The growing collaboration between marketing and admissions departments highlights the importance of aligned strategies for effective student recruitment.
Summary with Takeaways:
- Digital marketing remains the leading strategy in higher education marketing.
- Personalization, data analytics, and mobile optimization play a vital role in achieving marketing success.
- Universities and colleges are diversifying their marketing channels to reach their target audience.
- Collaboration between marketing and admissions departments is increasing to improve student recruitment efforts.
📊💻 Digital marketing leads higher ed, but personalization & mobile optimization are key. Marketing + admissions collaboration boosts recruitment! #HigherEdMarketing
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Conclusion:
This week’s stories are about progress, not perfection. Schools that pay attention to how people search, learn, and connect are the ones that will stay ahead. Whether it’s a better email strategy or a clearer value proposition, small changes can make a big difference.
