Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on university graduation rates

Abstract

This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis to visualize the similarities and differences in undergraduate graduation figures reported between 2017 and 2021 in the faculties belonging to the 4 areas of education at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM): 1) Physical-Mathematical and Engineering Sciences, 2) Biological, Chemical, and Health Sciences, 3) Social Sciences, and 4) Humanities and Arts. This analysis is carried out using a comparative methodology that allows the identification of trends and convergence processes analyzed in each of UNAM's statistical agendas. The results show a significant decrease in the number of students who obtained their university degree during the pandemic period, figures that stabilized after the implementation of strategies proposed by the University to address the confinement needs of students, teachers, and administrative staff. It is concluded that the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) as a tool to support both educational and administrative processes is crucial to ensure the continuity of the final stages of education in the flagship institution.