Case Study: Coppin State University achieves improved student success and retention with Microsoft Power BI

Coppin State University uses data-driven insights to build a high-touch, high-tech, high-impact environment

Coppin State University, a historically black institution in Baltimore serving a largely multigenerational and first‑generation student body, needed a scalable, data‑driven way to identify at‑risk students and improve enrollment, retention, and graduation outcomes. To do this, the university adopted Microsoft technologies—notably Microsoft Power BI alongside Azure, Office 365, and Windows 10—to move from paper‑based reporting to integrated, predictive analytics.

Using Microsoft Power BI and Azure, Coppin State consolidated student records, automated alerts for high‑risk indicators, and enabled advisors to drill into profiles to deliver timely, personalized interventions (for example, identifying students who could graduate immediately if they adjusted a minor). The result is faster, more actionable insight for faculty and staff, improved advising workflows, and a demonstrably stronger ability to flag and support students toward retention and on‑time graduation.

Coppin State University

Maria Thompson

President