WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Center for American Progress released three reports detailing a new federal approach to ensuring student success in higher education. Two reports are research papers, while the third is CAP’s own policy agenda to enhance the effectiveness of the postsecondary education system.
Success in today’s knowledge and innovation economy depends on education and skills development beyond high school, in postsecondary education. This is as true for individuals as it is for the nation. Postsecondary education is correlated with higher personal income, economic growth, and innovation. The three reports released today look at the challenges of providing accessible and effective post-secondary education:
College-Ready Students, Student-Ready Colleges: Improving Degree Completion Through Student Empowerment and Systems Change
By Louis Soares, Christopher Mazzeo
To regain America’s global leadership in postsecondary education, especially among young adults age 25 to 34, this report lays out the details of the Center for American Progress’ recommendation that federal policy be enhanced with a stronger focus on postsecondary completion and student and college readiness.
Read the full report (pdf)
A Federal Agenda for Promoting Student Success and Degree Completion
By Sara Goldrick-Rab, Josipa Roksa
Federal involvement is required to guarantee that the necessary funding is provided, clear messages are communicated, and data is collected so that progress toward goals can be measured. By acting as a guiding partner in the American higher education system, national leaders—together with educators, state legislators, and families—can turn more dreams into college diplomas.
Read the full report (pdf)
College for All?: The Labor Market for College-Educated Workers
By Paul Osterman
This paper addresses the pros and cons of a policy aimed at substantially increasing rates of postsecondary education. The focus is whether projected employer demand justifies an expansion of college education.
Read the full report (pdf)