Dec 21, 2017, 4:24 PM
(from the Hechinger Report) Fewer students enrolled in U.S. undergraduate programs this fall, contributing to a net decline of 2.6 million fewer college and university students since the fall of 2011, the most recent peak. That's even after taking into account an increase of 24,000 students in graduate and professional programs, according to new data from the National Student Clearighouse Research Center. In all, colleges and universities enrolled 63,000 fewer first-time students during the fall semester than in the same period last year.
Several factors lie behind the sixth straight year of declining higher-ed enrollment. These include a dip in the birth rate, especially in the Midwest and Northeast, leaving fewer Americans who are between ages 18 and 24. An improving economy has also played a role, luring more college-age students into the workforce. Another factor—one that is particularly relevant to K-12 independent schools—is rising price sensitivity and competition.
More at the Hechinger Report
All news on NetAssets.org
#Enrollment
Listen to the latest episode of the Net Assets podcast.
