With the increasing growth of online courses, broadening of the student population, and the growing concern over retention rates, examination of learner online participation and possible relationships with motivation is becoming increasingly appropriate in higher education. Online learners are important and viable clients for universities, providing tuition and revenue while also bringing a variety of life experiences and knowledge to the classroom. With the increase of online learners, retention of these students continues to be a challenge for these institutions. While there may be many variables pertaining to student retention, this study concentrated on intrinsic motivation, gender, age, income, ethnicity, degree program (as measured by current degree program hours completed), and grade point average (GPA). Building upon Deci and Ryan's (1985) self-determination theory and other adult learning behaviors and constructs, this study involved 113 online participants, currently enrolled at a for-profit university. A quantitative, predictive, and correlational design was appropriate for the study to expose noncausal relationships between intrinsic motivation, gender, age, income, ethnicity, and degree program with degree program hours completed and current GPA. The findings of the study indicated there was a small, but insignificant relationship between retention and intrinsic motivation, demographics, and degree program. However, upon further examination, signs of intrinsic motivation were strong predictors of current GPA. This study included discussions on the implications for learned institutions and leadership in developing criteria for identifying and helping at-risk students who may be furthering their education, thus possibly improving retention. [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://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]