Financial Wellness Websites in Higher Education: Who, What, Where, and “Other”

Abstract

This webinar was presented on November 13, 2024 as part of the HEFWA Webinar Series. The webinar "Financial Wellness Websites in Higher Education" by the HEFWA Research Committee presents an analysis of financial wellness and literacy web pages across U.S. higher education institutions. The research, conducted using IPEDS data and Google search methods, found that only 21.4% of institutions had financial wellness web pages, with a higher prevalence among public, four-year institutions. These pages are most commonly located within financial aid websites, though some are found in student services or other departments. Key findings include common naming conventions, with most pages labeled as "financial literacy" rather than explicitly providing comprehensive wellness resources.

The study explores the range of resources provided on these pages, such as videos, educational software, and multimedia, noting limitations in resource offerings. Challenges in website maintenance, broken links, and limited student awareness of these resources are highlighted. The report recommends strategic content improvements, like mobile-friendly design, concise text, contact information, and multimedia integration, to enhance accessibility and engagement. Future research aims to assess program presence without dedicated web pages and analyze resource depth and staffing on these platforms. The goal is to inform HEFWA members and support institutions in developing effective, student-centered financial wellness resources.