Strategic plan compilation using system dynamics modeling: case study of a university

Purpose – This paper aims to measure the demand for bachelors, masters and PhD degree students at an Iranian university. Design/methodology/approach – System dynamics (SD) modeling is used for the strategic plan compilation. Findings – After successful examination of the model, a simulation was carried out for the coming 18 years. The results show that in the future, the university will face reductions in the numbers of BA, MA and PhD students. Therefore, university leaders need to develop appropriate strategies to deal with this challenge. Originality/value – SD modeling for strategic plan compilation has been used for the first time in an examination of higher education in Iran.