College: 4-year

This presentation to the Maryland Senate Education, Business and Administration Subcommittee and the House Education and Economic Development Subcommittee shows the steady decline in first-time full-time (“FT/FT”) college students as largely due to the rise of transfer students. A series of graphic exhibits illustrates data on transfer students, including rates of graduation, degree and credit transfers, as well as income statistics. The research presented supports state legislation to improve the success rates of transfer students at four-year institutions.

The state of California is considering extending bachelor degree pathways to, and across, community colleges. A study group of constituents across the system of California universities has been assembled to determine the pros and cons of this debated model. This report outlines the agenda of the study group, including the research consulted, topics covered, and summary of recommendations to the Chancellor’s Office and the Board of Governors. 

This report describes the impact that various reform models - such as guided pathways, stackable credentials, and competency-based credentials - have on students' postsecondary outcomes as well as examples of how some states have been implementing these reform models. The report also discusses how technology and human systems in higher education inhibit transformative change while also presenting alternatives and solutions for addressing these barriers to change. Finally, the author presents policy recommendations that could accelerate the acceptance of the various reform models.

This policy brief explores how Early College High Schools increase high school graduation rates and postsecondary enrollment to improve outcomes for traditionally undeserved students. The brief provides an overview of Early College High Schools and also presents research that provides evidence of the positive impact Early College High Schools have on student outcomes. The brief also includes recommendations for model policy components that policymakers should consider when implementing Early College High Schools as well state examples.

This report describes the findings of a survey regarding online post-secondary programs at public institutions. The survey participants consisted of the chief academic officers of public universities who are members of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). The survey was conducted by AASCU, in collaboration with The Learning House. The report provides a detailed analysis of the infrastructure, finances, marketing, programs offered, impact, and future directions for online programs at public post-secondary institutions.