New Colleges, Old Values, Big Decisions
Rapidly changing academic landscape impacts both established and new institutions
Robin Capehart
Oct 21
The Emergence of New Colleges
The landscape of higher education is shifting. According to a study by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, American colleges and universities are closing at an unprecedented rate of about one per week. This phenomenon, which started around 2016, has been largely attributed to a combination of declining enrollment, ballooning costs, and increased competition. In particular, the decline in enrollment has been attributed to a shrinking pool of high school graduates and disillusioned parents and students who are questioning the value of a traditional four-year college degree.
However, this decline in traditional institutions is only one part of the story.
At the same time as these closures, a new wave of colleges is emerging, born out of a rejection of the perceived one-sided political bias and a perceived deficiency in teaching cognitive skills in traditional institutions.
According to a 2019 survey by the American Council on Education, nearly 70% of students and parents felt that colleges were not adequately preparing students for the workforce, with a significant portion pointing to a lack of teaching in critical thinking and problem-solving skills – key cognitive abilities.
Moreover, a 2020 report by the National Association of Scholars revealed a growing discontent with the ideological landscape of higher education, with 68% of respondents, both students and parents, expressing concern about political bias in college classrooms.
In response to these concerns, the current educational landscape is witnessing the emergence of new colleges that are responding to a growing demand for institutions that reject traditional one-sided political biases and focus on developing cognitive skills.
Two of the more prominent new colleges are:
1. University of Austin: Opened in Fall 2024, the University of Austin is a prime example of this new wave of educational institutions. It emphasizes a balanced political perspective and prioritizes cognitive skill development, aiming to provide an education that encourages diverse political thought. This approach is designed to attract students and parents who are dissatisfied with the current state of higher education and are seeking alternatives that better align with their values and expectations.
2. Minerva Schools at KGI: Another notable institution is the Minerva Schools at KGI, which also focuses on cognitive skill development over rote memorization. This institution has garnered significant interest from students and parents who value an education that emphasizes practical skills and critical thinking. Minerva’s approach reflects a broader trend in higher education towards more innovative and flexible learning models that cater to the needs of modern students.
Reflection of Old Values
While these new institutions are emerging in response to contemporary demands, they also reflect some traditional educational values. The emphasis on cognitive skill development and critical thinking harks back to the classical education model, which prioritized the development of a well-rounded intellect. However, these new colleges are adapting these values to fit the modern context, ensuring that students are not only well-educated but also prepared to navigate the complexities of today’s world.
The rise of these new institutions, coupled with the decline of many traditional colleges, is indicative of a changing demand in higher education. Parents and students are seeking not just a degree, but an education that prepares students for the workforce and encourages critical thinking and a balanced political perspective. Institutions that can adapt to meet these demands will thrive, while those that cannot may face an uncertain future.
Rediscovering Learning
In addition, other trends have created a significant shift in the landscape of higher education prompting a notable transformation. This shift is characterized by a renewed focus on learning, with an emphasis on practical skills, career readiness, and student-centered pedagogy. This trend is not a fleeting phenomenon but a substantial shift that is likely to expand to more and more colleges – or serve as the impetus for new colleges.
The need for this transformation is driven by several factors.
Firstly, the changing dynamics of the labor market necessitate a shift in the focus of higher education. Traditional degree programs are increasingly seen as inadequate in equipping students with the skills required in the modern workforce. As a result, there is a growing trend towards reimagining curricula and degree programs to align with the competencies required in the labor market.
Secondly, the rise of hybrid learning models is transforming how education is delivered. These models, which combine online and in-person instruction, increase accessibility and cater to diverse learning preferences. The success of these models during the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated their viability and effectiveness, suggesting that they will continue to be adopted by more institutions.
Thirdly, there is a growing emphasis on student well-being in higher education. Institutions are recognizing that mental health and overall wellness are crucial for academic success. As such, programs and resources aimed at supporting students’ mental health are becoming more prevalent, reflecting a holistic approach to education.
Finally, the integration of technology in education is reshaping student engagement. Tools such as artificial intelligence, learning management systems, and interactive platforms are being utilized to create more personalized and engaging learning experiences. This trend is expected to continue as institutions seek to enhance the quality of education through innovative technologies.
As such, the trend of new types of colleges focusing on learning is likely to expand to more and more colleges. This shift is driven by the changing needs of the labor market, the rise of hybrid learning models, an emphasis on student well-being, and the integration of technology in education.
The Future of Established Institutions: Adapt or Perish
What does this mean for established colleges and universities?
The rapidly changing economic landscape of the 21st century presents a significant challenge to established institutions. As the world continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, these institutions are faced with a stark choice: adapt or struggle. The failure to evolve and keep up with the changing times could lead to their eventual demise.
Many established institutions are characterized by a resistance to change, which can lead to stagnation and decline. As the needs of society and the labor market continue to evolve, institutions that cling to outdated practices and structures may find themselves increasingly out of step with the realities of the modern world. This could result in a loss of relevance, funding, and prestige, threatening the survival of these institutions.
Moreover, the systemic barriers to change within these institutions can exacerbate these challenges. Bureaucratic processes and institutional structures that slow down the implementation of new initiatives can prevent these institutions from responding effectively to new trends and innovations.
In the face of these challenges, established institutions must adapt or risk becoming obsolete. Those that fail to embrace change and innovation may find themselves on a path to decline, and perhaps even closing. On the other hand, those that are able to overcome their resistance to change and adapt to the evolving landscape may be able to thrive in this new era.
Time to Act
The difficulties faced by established institutions in adapting to change provides fertile ground for the creation of new institutions. These new institutions, unencumbered by the traditions and systemic barriers that characterize many existing institutions, will be better positioned to drive the transformation of society and meet the changing needs of the world.
Thus, the future of established institutions lies in their ability to adapt and evolve. Those that fail to do so may struggle and potentially perish, paving the way for new institutions that are better equipped to navigate the challenges of the 21st century.
In either case, the academic world will change rapidly- and the time for institutions to position themselves is sooner than later.
New Colleges, Old Values, Big Decisions – by Robin Capehart