The Office of Institutional Research and Assessment (IRA) partners with campus divisions to lead studies, manage surveys, and analyze data. IRA provides practical resources and frameworks for academic assessment, supporting both quantitative and qualitative research. These tools are designed to be logistically efficient, realistic, and actionable.
Institutional Surveys
Institutional Surveys are high-level assessments designed to capture a comprehensive view of educational excellence and impact, student and employee experiences, and organizational performance at the College. These instruments primarily inform progress toward the College’s Strategic Plan. Given their broad scope and institutional significance, these surveys are prioritized through coordinated, high-visibility outreach to ensure robust participation and representative data, and require authorization from the Provost and/or Vice President(s).
Current Surveys
Carleton leverages a combination of national benchmarking surveys and locally developed instruments to gain a comprehensive understanding of student and employee experiences.
New Survey Development
- Inquiry Submission: IRA performs a gap analysis of current data repositories and existing institutional surveys to prevent the redundant collection of information. Email ira@carleton.edu to set up a consultation meeting.
- Review & Approval: Based on the results of the initial gap analysis, the Vice President(s) in the relevant area(s) will review the proposal for formal authorization. For outsourced surveys involving external costs, the requesting office should coordinate with their budget manager to ensure funding availability.
- Collaborative Development: Upon approval, the requesting office and IRA will develop the instrument design (if needed), administration timeline, recruitment and communication strategy, and analysis plan.
Institutional Studies and Projects
Institutional studies and projects are high profile, targeted research initiatives designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the College’s internal and external environments. They transform complex data into actionable intelligence, serving as a catalyst for strategic structural, operational, and policy changes. These studies and projects are initiated by the President’s Cabinet member(s).
Current Projects
IRA leads comparative studies on student progress and outcomes, utilizing peer benchmarking to provide essential context for Carleton’s retention and graduation rates.
New Project Development
Please schedule an initial meeting with the Assistant Vice President for Institutional Research and Assessment.