Future U Podcast - The Pulse of Higher Ed Rerun: The New Student-Ready College
Jul 15, 2025
Mike Larsson, co-founder and CEO of Duet, discusses groundbreaking ways to support student success in higher education. He emphasizes the effectiveness of hybrid models that combine online learning with personalized coaching. The conversation dives into the challenges of re-engaging students who have stopped out and the importance of wraparound supports for degree completion. Larsson highlights innovative partnerships aimed at helping low-income adult learners navigate their educational paths, offering flexible options to fit their busy lives.
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Duet's Origin Story
- Duet originated from Match Charter School trying to support alumni through college coaching.
- They shifted to partnering with Southern New Hampshire University using competency-based online degrees with coaching.
Serving Stop-Out Adults
- 70% of Duet students have some college but no degree and have previously stopped out.
- Their model targets working adults needing flexibility, low cost, and personalized coaching for degree completion.
Coaching Boosts Student Success
- Pairing accessible online education with wraparound coaching helps students stay on track.
- Regular check-ins and accountability from coaches increase persistence and progress.