Even with the affordability challenges facing many college students today, most Americans—75 percent—believe a bachelor’s degree is extremely or very valuable for better jobs and a more educated, informed nation. 

Unfortunately, two-thirds don’t think it is accessible to most people. To help more Americans learn, earn, and build better lives and stronger communities, higher education leaders and policymakers must work harder to reduce costs, enhance aid, and be crystal clear about the price, writes Lumina Foundation's Courtney Brown.

Photo: Lauren Witte/The Texas Tribune

Like universities across the state, University of Texas at Austin is scrambling to comply with the new state law banning diversity, equity, and inclusion offices, programs, and training at public universities. The school has already closed a multicultural center, ended a scholarship for undocumented students, and laid off some 50 employees in DEI-related programs. 

But even those changes may not be enough to placate Republican legislators, say campus leaders.

One size doesn’t fit all in higher education, according to Julie Peller of Higher Learning Advocates and Eric Bing of The College of Health Care Professions. Many of today’s college students are older, first-generation college-goers, parents, and often work full time while putting themselves through school. 

To better serve these learners, postsecondary institutions must acknowledge their lived experiences and the multiple responsibilities their students carry outside the classroom, contend Peller and Bing in this perspective piece.