Smart Plan offers students at Purdue Fort Wayne an AI-powered view of their optimal degree pathways

For the first wave of students at Purdue University Fort Wayne who will get to use it, the Smart Plan degree platform should eliminate much of the guesswork often associated with choosing the classes needed to stay on track and on budget.

When the early registration window opens Oct. 27 for the spring and summer terms, students in 17 degree programs at PFW will gain access to this AI-powered tool that simplifies their experience by creating a personalized educational plan based on the chosen degree. Smart Plan will also notify them of changes or conflicts that may affect their path to a desired graduation date. More than 780 students will be able to take advantage of the new platform during the first phase of this multiyear implementation.

"As one of Purdue Fort Wayne's key initiatives to support student success, Smart Plan helps advisors and students focus on what matters most - each student's success," said Irah Modry-Caron, executive director of institutional research and information management. "A primary reason for its introduction is that it offers tools to help more students achieve their educational goals, whether earning a certificate, associate and bachelor's degrees, or even the addition of a new minor."

Despite a clear nod to the advantages of offering this kind of high-tech resource, support for the human element was PFW's first priority when determining if the platform might be a good fit for the university.

"Smart Plan will enable students and advisors to partner together to consider many complex variables over a span of several years," said James McHann, director of advising and student academic success. "Anytime adjustments are needed due to changes in students' life or work situations, or in curricular requirements or course offerings, this effective tool will help all involved quickly make changes in the plan. These capabilities will free up advisors' time and energy from the more clerical aspects of their jobs so they can focus on coaching and mentoring students in more high-value ways."

Ellucian, the plan's developer, touts its "what if" benefits like seeing in advance the impact specific courses taken during specific semesters may have on the time it takes to complete the degree - and how those choices might also impact what the student could end up paying in tuition through graduation.

"Students will be excited to see how Smart Plan enhances their unique paths to graduation through real-time exercises that reflect their preferences," said Christa Van De Weg, student information systems business analyst. "This technology helps the user adjust over the course of multiple semesters factors such as external employment, program requisites, and our recommended sequencing. We're looking forward to having each new group gain access over the next few years until this is part of every PFW student's experience from the moment they decide to come here."

To see the first list of PFW programs that will feature the Smart Plan option, and view answers to frequently asked questions, visit pfw.edu/smart-plan.

To take a deeper dive, click here to access a slide presentation featuring a student named Ava who attends the fictional Evermont. A video called Smart Plan: The AI-Powered Path to Graduation! can also be viewed on YouTube.

Students are encouraged to contact their own academic advisors via go.pfw.edu, which is where they can book an appointment in Navigate. They may also email Student Information Support Services at [email protected] for additional guidance.

For more information, contact Geoff Thomas at [email protected] or 260-437-7657 (mobile).