The purpose of this study was to examine the factors that determine the success and the persistence of students seeking to obtain their baccalaureate degree at Blue Mountain University (which is a pseudonym to maintain anonymity). This study focused on Blue Mountain University, located in South Dakota, and the factors that may contribute to students continuing with their studies in pursuit of degree attainment. The focus of the study specifically assessed both the academic and the demographics factors of the specified cohort of students enrolled at the institution between the fall of 2009 and the spring of 2015. This research study contributed to existing work in this field by identifying additional areas that contribute to the success of degree attainment in South Dakota. By identifying these specific factors, the regental institutions in South Dakota could, in an increasingly informed manner, alter their recruitment and retention practices so as to bolster their enrollment, prominence, and revenue. The information gathered could then be used to encourage students and provide institutions with a redesigned plan and approach to help them navigate obstacles, whether academic or socioeconomic, that would make degree attainment more achievable. This data may also be used by universities to have purposeful recruitment efforts and to aid them in their pursuit of a higher retention rate. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]