Tough Times Ahead for Higher Education Enrollment

Facing tough times ahead, higher education enrollment is at a critical juncture, as discussed by seasoned experts Drumm McNaughton, Bill Conley, and Bob Massa in this episode. They examine the current landscape, characterized by fluctuating student numbers, the next two demographic cliffs, and changing educational trends. Drawing from recent reports by the National Student Clearinghouse and the College Board, they explore changing demographics, public skepticism towards higher education, and the unintended results of trending financial strategies.

 

Key Discussion Points

Enrollment Trends and Challenges:

 

• Significant long-term changes in higher education enrollment patterns post-COVID-19.
  
  
• Decreased enrollment in traditional four-year colleges, with a notable shift towards certificate programs.
  
  
• Racial demographics show flat rates for white students and increases for Asian and Latin/Hispanic students, with challenges persisting for predominantly white institutions.

 

Reframing Financial Dynamics in Higher Ed:

 

• Discussion on the disparity between the sticker price and the net price of college education.
  
  
• Increased discounting by colleges is leading to reduced net revenues and potential implications for service and support levels.
  
  
• Highlighting the need for transparent communication about true costs and financial aid opportunities.

 

Strategic Adaptation for Higher Education Institutions:

 

• Importance of understanding and adapting to market needs, including an emphasis on employability and alignment with workforce demands.
  
  
• The role of college missions in guiding responses to current challenges and the necessity to revisit and update them as needed.
  
  
• Importance of investing in strong enrollment management leadership.

 

Accelerated Evolution of Higher Learning Structures:

 

• Predictions of ongoing demographic declines and their impact on enrollment.
  
  
• The necessity for higher education institutions to innovate and adapt to a potentially prolonged period of stagnation or decline in traditional student enrollment.
  
  
• Emphasis on strategic mergers, collaborations, and program adjustments to remain viable.

 

Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Leaders and Boards

 

• Acknowledge and respond proactively to the current demographic and financial challenges.
  
  
• Prioritize transparent communication about the value and cost of education.
  
  
• Embrace adaptability in institutional missions and practices to align with evolving market demands and expectations.

 

Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with a call for boldness and creativity in addressing these unprecedented challenges in higher education. The guests emphasized the importance of strategic leadership and innovation in navigating these turbulent times.

 

Read the transcript on our website →

 

About Our Podcast Guests

Principals at Enrollment Intelligence Now

Robert Massa

Dr. Robert Massa, a seasoned professional in higher education enrollment, began his career in 1974 at Colgate University and retired in 2019 from Drew University. His career trajectory included key positions at Union College, Johns Hopkins University, Dickinson College, and Lafayette College. Massa's expertise extends to teaching, currently as an adjunct professor at the University of Southern California. He is known for his insights on data modeling in admissions, financial aid strategies, and non-academic criteria in admissions, contributing to several national publications and speaking at conferences. His educational background includes a BA from the University of Rochester and an EdD from Columbia University. 

William Conley

Bill Conley began his career in education as an AP History teacher and coach at Delbarton School, transitioning into higher education enrollment management in 1980. His notable career includes roles at Lafayette College, Drew University, Case Western Reserve University, and Johns Hopkins University, before retiring in 2020 from Bucknell University. Throughout his forty-year career, Conley significantly improved admissions metrics and developed strategic infrastructures for recruitment and retention at each institution. He has been actively involved in professional organizations, holding leadership positions and contributing to publications in the field of higher education. Conley is a respected voice in higher education, frequently quoted and sought after for his insights and expertise. His educational background includes a BA from Colgate University and an M.Ed. from Harvard University.

About the Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed^®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm’s website: https://changinghighered.com/.

The Change Leader’s Social Media Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/
• Twitter: @thechangeldr
• Email: [email protected]

 

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