Important Issues that Higher Education Will Deal with this Year
Higher education institutions are looking for lasting solutions to these ongoing issues.
As colleges and universities look forward to the 2019/2020 school year, there are several serious concerns to address. From enrollment to immigration to funding, higher education institutions are looking for lasting solutions to these ongoing issues.
- Reduced Enrollment
Projections suggest that there will be a significant decrease in the number of high school graduates in the next decade. This dire prediction has made colleges and universities desperate to find new student pipelines. By recruiting working adults, transfer students, and improving retention, higher education institutions can mitigate the effects of dwindling enrollment.
- Protecting International and Undocumented Students
Stricter immigration policies make it harder for international students to secure or extend their visas. Additionally, the tense political climate could make international students feel unwelcome in American colleges and universities. With international enrollment dropping, higher education institutions need to find other ways to entice overseas students. Some schools are looking to appeal to this student body by offering access to top internships and other employment opportunities. Others are looking to close the gap by reducing tuition for international students.
In regards to undocumented students, some colleges have extended protection by naming themselves sanctuary campuses. Many colleges and universities are adding or expanding their legal services and financial aid for undocumented students as a means of supporting and protecting them.
- Inadequate Funding
Lower state funding, declining enrollment, and growing competition have many higher education institutions worried about their bottom lines. To combat their financial woes, many schools are relying on fundraising campaigns. In addition to fundraising, smaller colleges have had to make major budget cuts to improve financial stability.
Higher education institutions are looking for lasting solutions to these ongoing issues. Looking for a consulting firm with experience working with salary, legal, and other human resources issues? Then don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at McKnight Associates, Inc. We are ready to offer you hands-on human resources consulting for colleges, universities, medical centers, and organizations of all sizes.