Personalized, user-first design earns NCMC national recognition

North Central Michigan College’s website has been named one of the Top 10 Higher Education Websites of 2024 by Modern Campus, a leader in digital engagement solutions for higher education. This national recognition highlights North Central’s commitment to providing an innovative, user-focused online experience designed to enhance student engagement and support enrollment.

The honor follows the college’s recent homepage refresh, which was designed to personalize content for prospective students while streamlining navigation for all users. The redesigned homepage integrates nine unique user personas, allowing visitors to easily access tailored information based on their individual needs, whether they are high school students, adult learners, transfer students, veterans, or those seeking workforce training.

"Our website is the gateway to North Central, and this recognition affirms our commitment to creating a dynamic, student-centered digital experience," said Carol Laenen, vice president of marketing and strategy. "By prioritizing intuitive navigation, personalized content, and fast load times, we’ve made it easier than ever for prospective students to explore their options and take the next step toward their educational goals."

Among the website features that set NCMC apart, Modern Campus noted:

  • User Personas & Personalization: The website curates content based on specific user groups, ensuring that visitors receive the most relevant and engaging information.
  • Enrollment-Focused Design: The homepage prominently features Michigan Reconnect and the Michigan Community College Guarantee, making it easy for prospective students to discover tuition-free pathways to higher education.
  • Optimized User Experience: Faster load times, an intuitive navigation structure, and a non-auto-playing homepage video provide a seamless, visually engaging experience.
  • Career-Aligned Program Information: Academic program pages now include clear credential pathways, Michigan Transfer Agreement (MTA) details, and embedded career outlook data, helping students make informed decisions about their future.

Modern Campus praised North Central’s website for its user-first design and strategic approach to digital engagement, emphasizing its ability to connect with modern learners and guide them toward their next steps.

"The best higher ed websites don’t just look great — they create meaningful experiences that empower users," Modern Campus noted in its rankings. "North Central Michigan College excels at this by offering a personalized approach to exploration that enhances engagement and student success."

To view the full list of Modern Campus’s Top 10 Higher Education Websites of 2024, visit moderncampus.com/blog/top-higher-ed-websites-of-2024.html.