Abstract
This qualitative comparative case study examined the similarities and differences of the academic support services offered by selected universities within a NCAA Division I athletic conference. The study sought to discover how the content and context of day-today support provided by athletic academic advisors contributed to student athlete success while enrolled in an institution of higher education. The study consisted of fieldwork visits to three institutions. During each visit, individuals associated with athletic academic advising were interviewed. Additionally, the athletic academic facilities were observed and the NCAA Academic Progress Rate and Graduation Success Rate for each institution were reviewed. Six common themes emerged from the data collection and analysis process: academic support, development, collaborative efforts, addressing challenges, mission-based intentions, and mental health. The contrasting theme of numbers of full-time staff to assist with academic and non-academic development also emerged. The methods of academic support used by the selected institutions included individualized evaluation of student athletes upon matriculation, study hall requirements, meeting with an athletic academic advisor, tutoring, academic mentoring, and a variety of workshops related to academic success. Non-academic methods included leadership, career and personal development opportunities, community service, mental health support, and a wide variety of seminars and workshops. The dissertation concludes with the presentation of five evidence-based recommendations that are intended to improve and support existing athletic academic advising programs.|Keywords: NCAA, division I, student athlete, academic support, non-academic support