Learner Journey – Recruiting/Enrollment/Admissions
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How to Talk to Grad Students and Postdocs About Career Paths They Cannot Predict
Summary: As labor markets rapidly evolve, graduate students and postdocs must navigate changing professional environments by strategically leveraging their advanced degrees and experiences. Contributors to career advice columns emphasize that early career professionals should avoid an all-or-nothing approach, actively build professional branding on platforms like LinkedIn, and articulate the concrete value of internships and assistantships. By recognizing shifting employer expectations and integrating practical skills early, advanced-degree holders can better position themselves for diverse career paths. Observations: Graduate students and postdocs benefit from viewing their career progression as a flexible journey rather than a rigid, linear path. Practical experiences such as teaching...
How AI Is Shaping Higher Ed Communications
Summary: The article argues that AI is changing higher education communications by accelerating content creation and improving efficiency, but it cannot replace the human judgment needed to build trust, shape institutional identity, and communicate authentically. Effective communication strategies should use AI to support routine tasks while keeping people responsible for strategy, relationships, and decision-making. Institutions that combine AI capabilities with clear values, strong storytelling, and human oversight will be better positioned to engage students, alumni, faculty, and other stakeholders. Observations: AI is best used to enhance, not replace, strategic communication. Human judgment remains essential for authentic messaging and institutional trust. Communication teams should...
The Rise of Million-Dollar Companies With Just One Employee
Summary: Artificial intelligence is redefining entrepreneurship, enabling individuals to launch million-dollar companies with just one employee. AI acts as a powerful business partner, automating tasks from marketing to coding, dramatically reducing startup costs and time. This shift is especially visible in tech sectors, with an unprecedented rise in solo-founder ventures. However, relying solely on AI without sustainable business models poses risks, as some examples reveal rapid failure despite initial success. Graduate business leaders should carefully assess how AI integration can empower agility while balancing strategic planning with innovative technology adoption. Observations: AI is transforming business creation by automating key tasks, allowing solo entrepreneurs to scale...
Why outcomes now dominate the college search
Summary: Students increasingly prioritize outcomes like ROI, affordability, and career readiness over traditional campus amenities when choosing colleges. Economic uncertainty and technology, especially AI, drive demand for transparency in program costs and employment prospects. Institutions must promote AI literacy and ethical use to prepare learners for evolving workplaces. Strategic specialization and program portfolio reviews help schools align offerings with workforce needs and financial realities. This shift towards data-driven decision-making and clear communication of post-graduation success is essential for attracting and retaining today’s outcome-focused learners. Observations: Prospective students emphasize tangible return on investment and workforce outcomes over campus...
Will the College Transparency Act get the green light from lawmakers?
Summary: The College Transparency Act, reintroduced by Senators Cassidy and Warren, aims to enhance federal data collection on student outcomes by lifting a ban on student-level data reporting. Supported by major higher education groups, the act promises more accurate insights into graduation rates and earnings, addressing current gaps that exclude many students, especially those not receiving federal aid or attending community colleges. However, some associations oppose the bill citing privacy and regulatory concerns. As the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee considers the act, its passage remains uncertain amid legislative challenges. Observations: Current federal data on student outcomes is incomplete, missing large student segments. The College Transparency Act...
Entrepreneurship Expos Build More Than Businesses
Summary: Entrepreneurship expos offer graduate business students immersive, real-world experiences that extend beyond launching ventures. By engaging diverse stakeholders—entrepreneurs, investors, alumni, and community members—students develop critical skills like adaptability, judgment, communication, and relationship-building. These expos focus on building entrepreneurial capabilities through rapid feedback cycles, reflection, and iterative learning rather than just performance or business outcomes. Case studies from Florida State, Rowan University, and University of Tampa highlight how expos accelerate students’ entrepreneurial growth and confidence, preparing them for varied career paths by fostering transferable, higher-order capabilities essential in today’s dynamic business...
Why degree apprenticeships are more competitive than Oxford
Summary: Degree apprenticeships have surged in popularity, often outstripping prestigious university offers such as Oxford’s, driven by concerns over university costs and student debt. These programs blend vocational training with academic study, allowing students to earn while they learn and avoid loans. However, high demand has made entry extremely competitive, while the specialized nature of training means apprentices often have limited choice over universities or traditional campus experiences. Additionally, the application process can be complex and less accessible for disadvantaged students, who must manage logistical challenges more independently than their university counterparts. Observations: Degree apprenticeships offer a compelling alternative to traditional university routes...
Are We Seeing The End Of The ‘Just Get An MBA’ Era?
Summary: The MBA landscape is shifting as prospective students become more intentional about their education, prioritizing specific skills, clear ROI, and career outcomes over the traditional “just get an MBA” mindset. Rising costs and financial aid shortages are major barriers, influencing early decision-making. Candidates increasingly seek programs emphasizing durable skills, particularly in AI and technology, paired with applied learning. The focus is moving from career pivoting to skill-building that enhances current roles. Graduate business programs must provide transparent data on outcomes, financing, and relevant skill development to meet evolving candidate expectations. Observations: MBA candidates prioritize targeted skill acquisition and measurable ROI over broad career...
Moving From Skills to Capabilities
Summary: The article argues that business schools should move beyond teaching discrete skills and instead develop enduring capabilities that enable graduates to think critically, exercise judgment, and act effectively in unfamiliar situations. While AI can improve task performance, it can also encourage students to outsource thinking, limiting genuine learning. The author distinguishes skills—specific procedures that can be taught—from capabilities, which are developed through self-regulated learning, reflection, and repeated practice. Business schools should redesign learning experiences and assessments to strengthen students' independent judgment rather than simply improving AI-assisted performance. Observations: Capabilities such as judgment and critical thinking are more durable than...
What employers really want: 5 facts from the Corporate Recruiters Survey
Summary: The 2026 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey finds that employer confidence in graduate management education remains exceptionally strong despite rapid technological and economic change. Employers increasingly expect graduates to combine AI literacy with communication, professionalism, and the ability to navigate complex global business environments. Acceptance of online degrees continues to grow, U.S. employers are becoming more receptive to micro-credentials, and hiring projections remain positive. At the same time, AI is eliminating some entry-level roles, making human judgment, adaptability, and professional skills increasingly important differentiators for graduate business graduates. Observations: Employers continue to place high value on graduate business education but...
Tell Your Enrollment Story Before Someone Else Does
Summary: As new federal data on college admissions and enrollment (ACTS) is set to be released, institutions face intense public scrutiny. The article urges colleges to proactively communicate their enrollment strategies—grounded in mission and community needs—to prevent misinterpretation. Transparent, coordinated storytelling across departments helps explain complex admission decisions beyond test scores and GPAs. This approach builds trust, informs stakeholders, and shapes the narrative before external parties fill the information void. Graduate business programs can adapt by aligning admissions communication with broader institutional goals, emphasizing their unique contributions to workforce development and equity. Observations: ACTS data release will significantly shape public...
Is Your College Losing Money?
Summary: The article argues that many colleges are experiencing growing financial pressure despite appearing stable on the surface. It encourages institutional leaders to monitor operating performance, cash flow, debt, enrollment trends, and liquidity rather than relying on annual budgets alone. The piece emphasizes that persistent operating deficits, declining enrollment, and weakening financial reserves are early warning signs that require immediate attention. Institutions that regularly track financial indicators and act before problems become crises are better positioned to maintain long-term sustainability. Observations: Financial sustainability depends on monitoring multiple indicators, not just balancing the annual budget. Persistent operating deficits should trigger strategic...
College Students Are Testing at the Level of 10-Year-Olds
Summary: The article highlights findings from the OECD's 2023 Survey of Adult Skills showing that a significant share of college students across OECD countries demonstrate reading and mathematics proficiency comparable to that of a 10-year-old. It attributes these outcomes to multiple factors, including pandemic-related learning loss, declining enrollment that may have lowered admissions standards, and reduced public investment in education. The article also raises concerns about AI and other technologies reducing students' engagement with reading while noting that technology-free classroom practices may help improve literacy and confidence. Observations: Entering graduate students may require stronger assessment of foundational literacy and quantitative skills. AI should supplement, not...
The Demographic Reality Business Schools are Ignoring
Summary: Business schools are failing to adapt to a shifting demographic landscape, characterized by declining traditional student-age populations and the rise of lifelong learners. Relying on historical recruitment models and 20-something demographics is no longer sustainable as global birth rates fall and workforce needs evolve. Institutions must pivot from a "volume-at-all-costs" growth strategy to one focused on inclusivity and long-term career engagement across multiple life stages. Success in this new environment requires intentional efforts to engage diverse populations, non-traditional learners, and mid-career professionals, rather than clinging to the narrow, aging pipeline of traditional full-time candidates. Observations: The "demographic cliff" is not a future threat but an...
Hood College Launches STEM MBA
Summary: Hood College has launched a STEM-designated MBA that combines traditional business education with advanced quantitative, analytical, and technology-focused coursework. The program is designed to prepare graduates for data-driven decision-making and leadership roles in technology-oriented business environments. The STEM designation is intended to strengthen graduates’ competitiveness in the job market while meeting employer demand for professionals who can bridge business strategy and technical expertise. College leaders describe the program as a response to evolving workforce needs and increasing demand for business graduates with strong analytical and technology skills. Observations: Business schools are increasingly integrating STEM content into MBA programs to align with...
When You Suspect AI Misuse: A Decision Framework for Faculty and Administrators
Summary: The article proposes a decision-making framework for faculty who suspect students have misused AI. Rather than relying on AI detectors or making immediate accusations, the framework encourages instructors to gather evidence, evaluate the context of the assignment, consider alternative explanations, and assess whether the concern reflects a learning issue, a policy violation, or a misunderstanding of expectations. The author argues that responses should be proportional and educational, emphasizing fairness, due process, and student learning. The framework aims to help instructors navigate AI-related concerns consistently while preserving trust and avoiding unsupported allegations. Observations: AI detectors alone are insufficient grounds for determining academic misconduct....
Many college students already have well-formed cheating habits – that, not AI, is the real problem
Summary: The article argues that concerns about AI-driven cheating may overlook a more fundamental issue: many students already develop cheating habits before arriving at college. Drawing on research into academic integrity, the author contends that dishonesty often stems from established behaviors, pressures, and attitudes rather than from any specific technology. AI may provide a new tool for misconduct, but it is not the root cause. The article suggests that institutions should focus less on policing technology and more on fostering ethical decision-making, strengthening learning environments, and addressing the underlying conditions that encourage academic dishonesty. Observations: Academic dishonesty often predates students’ use of AI and reflects broader behavioral patterns. AI is...
The AI-related leadership that’s only five years away
Summary: The article argues that artificial intelligence is contributing to a leadership development challenge among younger workers by automating tasks that have traditionally helped employees build judgment, communication skills, confidence, and decision-making experience. As AI increasingly performs research, analysis, and routine problem-solving, organizations risk creating a generation of professionals with fewer opportunities to develop the foundational capabilities needed for leadership roles. The author contends that employers and educators must intentionally create experiences that cultivate critical thinking, interpersonal skills, accountability, and real-world decision-making to prepare Gen Z for future leadership responsibilities. Observations: AI may reduce opportunities for...
Beyond Red vs. Blue: The Political Typology
Summary: Pew Research Center’s 2026 Political Typology argues that the U.S. political landscape is more complex than a simple Democrat-versus-Republican divide. Based on responses to 30 questions about political and social values, the study identifies nine distinct groups ranging from highly ideological conservatives and liberals to a large middle made up of voters with mixed views. The research highlights how differences in age, race, ethnicity, policy priorities, political engagement, and cultural values create cross-cutting coalitions that do not fit neatly within party labels. The findings underscore the diversity of perspectives that institutions must navigate when engaging broad audiences. Observations: Broad populations cannot be understood through binary categories alone; values...
Why More Workers Are ‘Microshifting’
Summary: A growing number of employees are adopting “microshifting,” a work pattern that breaks the traditional workday into shorter, flexible blocks aligned with personal responsibilities and peak productivity periods. The trend is gaining traction among caregivers and knowledge workers seeking greater control over when and how they work. Some employers are supporting the approach by focusing on outcomes rather than fixed schedules, while AI tools help employees manage workloads and communication. Although microshifting can improve productivity and reduce burnout, it requires clear expectations, self-discipline, and coordination across teams to maintain collaboration and performance. Observations: Workforce expectations continue to shift from time-based work toward results-based...
More Than 40 Million Adults Plan to Pursue Education. Here’s What Stops Them.
Summary: A new survey found that 41.7 million U.S. adults aged 25–64 intend to pursue higher education or training within the next two years. Interest is especially strong among Black, Hispanic, and female adults. However, many prospective learners face barriers including cost, time constraints, work and family responsibilities, and uncertainty about how education fits their career goals. The findings suggest that adult learners represent a major growth opportunity for higher education institutions, but success will depend on reducing obstacles and creating flexible, career-relevant pathways that make enrollment and completion more attainable. Observations: Adult learners remain a large and underserved market for higher education. Demand for education is driven primarily by career...
Being a department head has never been more complex
Summary: The article argues that the role of academic department head [& graduate program leader] has become significantly more complex due to growing administrative demands, financial pressures, regulatory requirements, workforce challenges, and institutional change initiatives. Department heads are increasingly expected to balance strategic leadership, operational management, staff development, student concerns, and institutional priorities while often receiving limited preparation for the role. The author contends that the position has evolved beyond traditional academic leadership and now requires a broader set of management, communication, and change leadership skills. Supporting department heads is therefore critical to institutional effectiveness and organizational resilience....
3 Takeaways From Spring Enrollment Data
Summary: Spring 2026 enrollment data show continued growth in undergraduate enrollment but emerging challenges for graduate education. While overall graduate enrollment remained relatively stable, enrollment in master’s programs declined by 1.3%, representing about 26,000 fewer students than the previous year. International graduate enrollment also decreased. Community colleges continued to grow, particularly institutions focused on transfer pathways to four-year degrees. Among academic fields, health professions and engineering experienced the strongest growth, while computer science enrollment continued to decline. The findings suggest shifting student demand toward workforce-aligned fields and increasing pressure on master’s programs to demonstrate value and return on investment....
EDUCAUSE Horizon Report Finds AI Reshaping Trust, Future of Learning
Summary: The 2026 EDUCAUSE Horizon Report identifies AI as a driving force reshaping teaching and learning, particularly by challenging trust and credibility between students and faculty. As students increasingly rely on AI for tutoring and academic support, institutions are rethinking assessment, academic integrity, and the role of human relationships in education. The report urges colleges to establish clear norms for ethical AI use while strengthening mentoring, judgment, and student engagement. It also highlights emerging developments such as AI-generated learning materials, AI governance systems, and highly automated workplaces, encouraging institutions to prepare for rapid and uncertain change. Observations: AI is changing student-faculty relationships by shifting how students seek...
My Students Can’t Read
Summary: The author argues that many college students struggle with sustained reading, comprehension, and engagement with complex texts. Faculty increasingly report that students have difficulty completing assigned readings, interpreting arguments, and navigating longer works. The article suggests that these challenges are not simply a matter of motivation but reflect broader shifts in reading habits, digital media consumption, and educational preparation. The author contends that colleges must recognize reading as a skill that requires active development and support rather than assuming students arrive prepared to engage with demanding academic materials. Observations: Reading comprehension and sustained attention are emerging challenges for many college students. Faculty cannot assume...
When the Algorithm Becomes the Customer
Summary: The article argues that business schools must prepare executives for a new commercial reality in which AI systems increasingly make purchasing decisions. The author describes a “Shopper Schism,” where humans define preferences while algorithms execute transactions, reducing the influence of traditional marketing tactics such as brand storytelling and relationship selling. The article contends that executive education has focused on teaching leaders how to use AI but has largely ignored how to compete when AI becomes the customer. It calls for integrated curricula that combine commercial strategy, algorithmic commerce, platform dynamics, and AI-mediated decision-making. Observations: AI-powered purchasing systems are increasingly evaluating suppliers based on data quality,...
The Trust Agenda
Summary: The report argues that restoring public trust in higher education requires institutions to strengthen internal trust, improve affordability, accelerate innovation, and deepen community engagement. Effective shared governance balances broad participation with the ability to act on good ideas, while transparent decision-making builds legitimacy across campus stakeholders. The report also identifies affordability as a major driver of public distrust and calls for greater price transparency and innovation in institutional operations. Finally, it promotes the “anchor institution” model, encouraging colleges and universities to become active community partners that contribute to local economic, educational, and social development. Observations: Public trust is closely tied to...
The Microcredential Maze: Why The U.S. Is Falling Behind
Summary: The article argues that microcredentials are growing rapidly worldwide, offering flexible, skills-focused alternatives and complements to traditional degrees. However, the United States lacks a coherent national framework for defining, validating, transferring, and sharing these credentials, creating confusion for learners and employers. While universities, technology companies, and credential platforms have developed innovative approaches, the result is a fragmented system with inconsistent terminology, standards, and portability. In contrast, many OECD countries have established national or regional microcredential frameworks. The author contends that the U.S. risks falling behind unless it creates more coordinated systems that connect microcredentials, academic credit, and...
The Adult Learner Is the New Majority. Higher Education Hasn’t Fully Caught Up
Summary: The article argues that adult learners now represent the majority of higher education students, yet many institutions still operate around traditional models designed for younger, full-time learners. Adult students often balance work, family, and financial pressures while seeking flexible, career-focused education. The piece highlights gaps in scheduling, student services, credit recognition, and institutional culture that limit adult learner success. It calls on colleges and universities to redesign programs, support systems, and administrative processes to better meet the needs of working professionals and lifelong learners who increasingly drive enrollment growth. Observations: Adult learners are becoming the dominant demographic in higher education enrollment. Traditional...
From Funnel To Forever: Why Business Schools Must Stop Managing Pipelines & Start Building Communities
Summary: Business schools are shifting from fragmented, siloed operations toward integrated "community ecosystems".Traditionally, schools managed transactional pipelines—admissions, enrollment, and placement—but stakeholders now demand continuous, lifelong engagement. Static databases and disconnected departments hinder schools from tracking evolving professional trajectories, leading to a "living database problem". To remain competitive, institutions must transition from managing distinct stages of a student’s career to functioning as platform builders that connect alumni, employers, and students into a single, dynamic network capable of facilitating ongoing mentorship, reskilling, and strategic industry collaboration. Observations: The traditional "funnel" model, where interactions are...
The University That Chose to Shrink
Summary: The article profiles a university that intentionally chose to shrink in response to demographic, financial, and enrollment pressures rather than pursue unsustainable growth. Leaders focused on aligning institutional size with mission, resources, and long-term viability through program reductions, staffing changes, and operational restructuring. The strategy emphasized sustainability over expansion, acknowledging that smaller scale could improve stability and focus. The case illustrates how some institutions are redefining success by prioritizing resilience, academic quality, and financial balance instead of continual growth. Observations: Institutional downsizing is emerging as a strategic choice rather than solely a crisis response. Sustainable scale may be more important than...
Why Colleges Are Slashing MBA Prices
Summary: The article argues that tuition cuts at colleges and MBA programs reflect growing pressure to address affordability concerns and skepticism about student debt. Institutions are increasingly confronting questions about whether tuition prices align with educational value and career outcomes. Rising borrowing costs and concerns over graduate debt burdens are pushing schools to reconsider pricing strategies, particularly for professional programs. The piece suggests that lowering tuition may become a competitive and political necessity as public scrutiny of higher education costs intensifies. Observations: Tuition pricing is becoming a strategic issue tied directly to public trust and enrollment demand. MBA and professional programs face increased scrutiny over return on investment....
Stanford Launches Cinema-Quality Studio for Online Classes
Summary: Stanford University has launched a cinema-quality production studio to enhance online learning experiences through high-end video, sound, and interactive instructional design. The initiative reflects growing institutional investment in premium digital education as universities compete for online learners and seek to improve engagement and instructional quality. The studio is intended to support faculty in creating more dynamic and professional online courses, blending educational expertise with advanced media production capabilities. Observations: Universities are investing in high-production digital learning environments to strengthen online education. Online program quality is increasingly tied to media production and learner engagement. Faculty support now extends beyond...
Rethinking The MBA: From One-Time Credential To Lifelong Capability
Summary: The article argues that the MBA should evolve from a one-time credential into a lifelong capability model that supports continuous learning and career adaptation. Rapid technological, economic, and workplace changes are making static degrees less sufficient over time. Business schools are being encouraged to build ongoing relationships with alumni through modular learning, reskilling opportunities, and career-long educational support. The piece emphasizes that future MBA value will depend on continuous relevance, adaptability, and the ability to help graduates navigate repeated professional transitions. Observations: The traditional “one-and-done” MBA model is becoming less sustainable. Lifelong learning is emerging as a core expectation in graduate business education. Alumni...
One free MBA elective every year, for life
Summary: Bayes Business School is offering MBA graduates one free elective course every year for life, reflecting a shift toward continuous learning and long-term alumni engagement. The initiative recognizes that careers, technologies, and leadership demands evolve rapidly, requiring ongoing skill development beyond graduation. By extending learning access indefinitely, the school aims to strengthen alumni relationships while supporting lifelong professional growth and adaptability in a changing business environment. Observations: Business schools are expanding beyond transactional degree models toward lifelong learning relationships. Alumni increasingly expect ongoing access to education and professional development. Continuous reskilling is becoming central to MBA program value...
The Trust Problem in College Pricing Is Real
Summary: The article argues that higher education has a significant trust problem tied to college pricing. Complex tuition structures, inconsistent discounting, hidden costs, and unclear financial aid practices have made it difficult for students and families to understand the true cost of attendance. This lack of transparency contributes to skepticism about institutional value and affordability. The piece suggests that rebuilding trust requires simpler pricing models, clearer communication, and greater honesty about costs, outcomes, and financial expectations. Observations: Complex pricing and aid structures are undermining public trust in higher education. Students and families increasingly expect transparency and predictability in costs. Perceived value is closely tied to clarity...
Global MBA Demand Is Up. U.S. Programs Are Losing Ground
Summary: Global MBA demand is rising, but U.S. programs are losing market share as international schools gain ground. Growth is being driven by increased interest in Europe and Asia, where programs are often shorter, more affordable, and offer strong international mobility. Meanwhile, U.S. schools face declining international applications due to visa concerns, cost, and shifting perceptions of value. The result is a redistribution of demand rather than overall decline, signaling increased global competition and changing student preferences in graduate business education. Observations: MBA demand is growing globally, but not evenly across regions. U.S. programs are becoming less competitive with international applicants. Cost, program length, and visa policies are key decision factors for...
Think Global; Write Local
Summary: The article argues that aspiring public scholars should begin engagement at the local level rather than aiming immediately for national visibility. Building relationships with community organizations, local media, and regional audiences allows scholars to develop credibility, refine their voice, and demonstrate impact. Local engagement is more accessible and responsive, offering opportunities to address real-world issues while gaining experience communicating beyond academia. Over time, this foundation can lead to broader influence and recognition. Observations: Public scholarship is more effective when grounded in local communities and relationships. Early-career scholars benefit from starting small rather than pursuing large platforms immediately. Local engagement helps refine...
Can’t Get ChatGPT to Cite Your College? Try These Tactics.
Summary: The article outlines practical strategies colleges can use to ensure they are accurately represented in AI-generated responses. Institutions should publish clear, accessible, and up-to-date information on their websites, particularly about programs, admissions, and outcomes. Structuring content for search visibility and consistency across platforms improves how AI systems interpret and surface institutional data. The piece emphasizes that AI tools rely on publicly available content, meaning gaps, outdated details, or unclear messaging can lead to omissions or inaccuracies in responses, affecting visibility and reputation. Observations: AI visibility is now influenced by how clearly and consistently institutions publish information online. Outdated or fragmented web content...
Revisiting the Impact of the College Scorecard on Demand for Colleges
Abstract This study comprehensively examines the effect of the College Scorecard (the Scorecard), first launched in 2015, on student application and enrollment at 4-year universities in the United States by reported earnings level and sector. Using institution-year panel data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, we employed a regression discontinuity in time design and an event study analysis to examine whether application and enrollment trends at 4-year institutions shifted after the release of the Scorecard. Results indicate little evidence of shifts: students did not substantially move away from lower-earning institutions or sort into higher-earning ones, and the null findings remain across earning levels and sectors. These findings align with early studies showing...
The Four Paths to Enrollment Growth
Summary: The article outlines four primary strategies institutions use to drive enrollment growth: increasing market share in existing programs, expanding into new markets or audiences, developing new programs, and improving student retention. It emphasizes that sustainable growth requires a balanced approach rather than reliance on a single strategy. Institutions must align these pathways with their strengths, market demand, and operational capacity. Data-informed decision-making, clear positioning, and coordinated efforts across admissions, marketing, and academic units are essential to execute effectively and avoid overextension. Observations: Enrollment growth is multifaceted and cannot rely on a single strategy. Expanding into new markets and launching new programs require careful...
UNH Launches First DNP/MBA Program in the Northeast
Summary: The University of New Hampshire has launched the first dual Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and MBA program in the Northeast, designed to prepare healthcare leaders with both clinical expertise and business acumen. The program integrates leadership, finance, and healthcare systems management with advanced nursing practice. It targets working professionals and emphasizes flexible delivery and interdisciplinary learning. The initiative reflects growing demand for hybrid skill sets in healthcare leadership and signals how institutions are combining degrees to meet evolving workforce needs. Observations: Demand is rising for interdisciplinary programs that combine clinical and business expertise. Dual-degree offerings are expanding to address leadership gaps in specialized sectors...
5 things business schools need to know about prospective students in 2026
Summary: The 2026 GMAC Prospective Students Survey reveals that graduate business candidates prioritize skill acquisition and ROI over career changes. Social influences increasingly motivate applications, while interest in U.S. study is declining, especially among international candidates. Younger students show growing preference for specialized master’s degrees, although MBAs remain dominant for the 25–30 age group. AI is expected in curricula but employers value strategic thinking and interpersonal skills more. Overall, prospective students are pragmatic, informed, and responsive to global shifts, urging schools to emphasize ROI and adapt recruitment to evolving candidate demographics and motivations. Observations: Candidates value practical skills and clear ROI more than career...
NEOMA Business School signs partnership with McGill University, strengthening its presence in Canada
Summary: NEOMA Business School has partnered with McGill University to expand international collaboration in business education. The agreement focuses on student exchanges, joint academic initiatives, and research collaboration, strengthening global exposure and cross-institutional learning opportunities. The partnership reflects a broader strategy to enhance internationalization, diversify learning experiences, and build global networks. By aligning with a leading university, NEOMA aims to increase its global visibility and provide students with access to new markets, perspectives, and academic resources. Observations: Strategic partnerships remain a key lever for advancing internationalization in business education. Joint programs and exchanges enhance student exposure to diverse...
State of the Global Workplace Report
Summary: The 2022 Gallup State of the Global Workplace report highlights that only 21% of employees worldwide are engaged at work, revealing a broad challenge in sustaining motivation and productivity. Remote and hybrid work environments are reshaping employee experiences, emphasizing the need for meaningful connections, well-being support, and personalized leadership. These shifts impact talent development and retention, requiring educational programs, including graduate business schools, to rethink how they prepare leaders to manage evolving workforce dynamics effectively in a competitive global economy. Observations: Employee engagement remains low globally, signaling a critical leadership challenge. Hybrid and remote work models require new strategies to foster connection and...
Student-Visa Denials Are Up
Summary: The latest "Latitudes" newsletter highlights growing challenges in international graduate education, including increased student visa denials, geopolitical tensions such as Russia banning more American colleges, and immigration enforcement shifts with judges dismissed after halting student deportations. These developments complicate recruitment and retention of international students and foreign researchers, prompting graduate business programs to reconsider admissions strategies and support frameworks to navigate evolving policy landscapes and safeguard global talent pipelines. Observations: Student visa denials are on the rise, intensifying barriers for international applicants. Geopolitical conflicts impact institutional partnerships and cross-border educational...
Simon Business School partners with 5 colleges on MBA pipeline
Summary: The University of Rochester’s Simon Business School has launched a 4+1 Business Master’s Pathway program with five partner colleges: SUNY Geneseo, Ursinus College, Union College, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and The College of Wooster. The initiative provides students with early conditional admission to Simon and the opportunity to complete a business master’s degree in one year after earning their bachelor’s degree. The pathway includes programs in accounting, artificial intelligence in business, business analytics, finance, and marketing analytics, while reducing barriers through tuition scholarships, waived application fees, no GMAT/GRE requirement, and early career development support. Observations: Business schools are building undergraduate-to-graduate pipelines to...
Simon Business School expands pathway to accelerated master’s degree through new college partnerships
Summary: The University of Rochester’s Simon Business School has launched partnerships with five colleges to offer an accelerated 4+1 Master’s Pathway, allowing students to earn a business master's degree within one year post-undergrad. This program removes traditional barriers by waiving application fees, GRE/GMAT requirements, offering guaranteed scholarships, and early career support. It fosters talent retention in the region and enhances undergraduate institutions' value by providing clear, affordable, and streamlined access to graduate business education tailored to fields like business analytics, finance, and AI in business. Observations: Accelerated master’s pathways are gaining traction as a strategic approach to attract high-achieving undergraduates. Removing standardized test...
Higher Education’s Huge Opportunity
Summary: With a shrinking traditional college-age population, higher education faces a pivotal shift toward re-engaging the 43 million Americans who started but did not complete college credentials. Programs must adapt to support these "potential completers" who have earned sufficient credits but left without degrees. Strategies include improving credit transfer, expanding retroactive credentialing, embedding credentials earlier, and adopting competency-based education. Embracing adult learners and non-traditional pathways is critical for institutional survival and relevance in a lifelong learning landscape. Observations: Traditional-age student populations are declining by 10% over the next decade. Millions of adults hold substantial college credits without credentials, representing a...
Making Graduate Admissions International Student–Friendly
Summary: The article examines how institutions are adapting graduate admissions to better support international students amid ongoing visa challenges, policy uncertainty, and increased competition. Schools are simplifying application processes, improving communication, and offering more flexible options, including virtual engagement and extended deadlines. Dedicated support services and clearer guidance on visas and relocation are becoming essential. Institutions are also investing in personalized outreach and partnerships to build trust and attract global applicants, recognizing that a more student-centered admissions experience is critical to maintaining international enrollment. Observations: International recruitment is increasingly shaped by policy uncertainty and visa-related...
The Business School-to-Career Disconnect
Summary: There is a significant gap between graduate business students’ career intentions—such as entrepreneurship and social impact—and their actual employment outcomes, primarily due to market realities, financial needs, and limited job opportunities in those fields. Traditional sectors like consulting, finance, and technology continue to dominate MBA employment. Schools are adapting by encouraging flexible, non-linear career paths, promoting networking, and emphasizing skill-building over specific job placements. This shift reflects a changing recruitment landscape, moving away from concentrated hiring toward diverse, smaller-scale employers, requiring students to proactively seek opportunities beyond traditional pipelines. Observations: Many students’ career goals in impact and...
Bringing Stopped-Out Students Back to College
Summary: Michigan’s statewide initiative to re-enroll adults who stopped out of college highlights the critical role of combining personalized coaching with technology to reconnect learners and increase degree completion. Partnering with ReUp Education, 18 public institutions have centralized outreach efforts, resulting in nearly 14,000 re-enrollments and over 1,700 graduates. Addressing financial barriers and fostering ongoing support are key to sustaining momentum. This approach not only tackles enrollment declines amid shrinking high school graduate populations but also enhances workforce readiness and institutional revenue, offering a scalable model for similar efforts nationwide. Observations: Stopped-out students represent a significant opportunity to boost adult credential...
Can A $5,000 Mini-MBA Challenge The Six-Figure Degree? Abilitie Thinks So
Summary: A new sub-$5,000 mini-MBA from Abilitie, developed with TED and St. Edward’s University, targets professionals who will not pursue traditional MBAs. Built on simulations, AI-driven role play, and global cohorts, the program emphasizes practical skills over lectures and offers limited networking without job placement. Its value proposition centers on lower cost and faster ROI, delivering incremental career gains rather than transformational outcomes. Positioned as a complement—not a replacement—to traditional MBAs, it aims to scale access to business education for the majority of managers globally. Observations: Demand is shifting toward shorter, lower-cost credentials that prioritize immediate applicability over comprehensive education. Providers are differentiating through...
3-Year Degrees Are on the Rise. But Shorter May Not Mean Better.
Summary: The article highlights a resurgence of three-year bachelor’s degree programs aimed at reducing costs and time to graduation. While shorter programs appeal to students and institutions facing affordability and value concerns, there are questions about whether faster completion compromises educational quality and outcomes. The balance between efficiency and rigor remains a central challenge as higher education adapts to evolving student and market demands. Observations: Three-year degree programs are gaining popularity as a response to rising costs and time pressures. Shortened programs may not inherently guarantee better educational quality or career readiness. Stakeholders remain cautious about potential trade-offs between speed and depth of learning. Innovation in degree design...
GMAC’s Bluntest Survey Yet: U.S. Losing Global Talent, Candidates Want Proof Not Promises
Summary: The 2026 GMAC survey reveals graduate business candidates increasingly prioritize skill acquisition and economic security over career pivots, with half demanding AI fluency in curricula. The U.S. is losing appeal as a study destination, particularly among non-U.S. citizens, due to immigration policies and geopolitical concerns, while interest in Western Europe and Asia rises. Candidates favor measurable ROI and employer-valued interpersonal skills like coachability, which they tend to undervalue. Programs must adapt by enhancing transparency about outcomes, integrating practical AI education, and aligning skills development with employer expectations to remain competitive in a shifting global talent market. Observations: Candidates prioritize tangible skill development and...
Global Talent on the Move: Business School Candidates Seek to Upskill, Not Pivot, as International Mobility Realigns
Summary: Global business school candidates are increasingly focused on upskilling rather than changing career paths, reflecting a shift in international mobility patterns. Despite geopolitical and economic uncertainties, demand for advanced business education remains strong. Programs must adapt by emphasizing flexibility, digital skills, and relevant global perspectives to meet evolving candidate needs. This trend signals a realignment of global talent flows, with growth from emerging markets and a focus on reskilling for current roles rather than career pivots, influencing recruitment and program design strategies in graduate business education worldwide. Observations: Candidates prioritize upskilling within their current fields over career changes. International mobility is realigning,...
The Future of Business School Recruitment
Summary: Business school recruitment is evolving as employers broaden their talent search beyond traditional elite schools and de-emphasize GPA and rankings. Emphasis is shifting toward workforce-ready graduates with a strong blend of technical, experiential, and human skills like emotional intelligence and adaptability. As AI advances, soft skills become increasingly vital. Recruiters now assess complex patterns of candidate traits rather than isolated abilities. Business schools must adapt by enhancing experiential learning, fostering transferable soft skills, and preparing graduates to meet employers’ growing expectations for immediate value and diverse competencies in a highly competitive recruitment landscape. Observations: Employers are expanding recruitment beyond elite schools to...
SACSCOC Opens Pathway for Reduced-Hour Bachelor’s Degrees
Summary: SACSCOC has approved a new pathway allowing institutions to offer bachelor’s degrees with fewer than the traditional 120 credit hours. The policy aims to increase flexibility, reduce time to degree, and lower costs for students while maintaining academic quality. Institutions must demonstrate that reduced-hour programs meet learning outcomes and accreditation standards. This shift reflects broader pressures to improve affordability and efficiency in higher education, encouraging institutions to rethink curriculum design and degree structures without compromising rigor or workforce readiness. Observations: Accreditation bodies are enabling more flexible, cost-conscious degree models. Time-to-degree and affordability are becoming central drivers of program design. Institutions...
Online MBAs and EMBAs triumph with more experienced students
Summary: Online and executive MBA programs are increasingly attracting more experienced professionals who prioritize maintaining their careers while studying. Flexibility to study evenings and weekends allows students to balance work, family, and education without sacrificing income. Business schools are tailoring offerings to distinct student groups: career advancers often choose online or EMBA formats to remain employed, while career switchers lean toward full-time programs for a clean break and internship opportunities. This diversification expands access and addresses varied career goals, reflecting a strategic adaptation in graduate business education to evolving student needs and life circumstances. Observations: Experienced professionals favor online and executive MBAs that allow...
Is the political climate driving students to larger colleges?
Summary: Shifting political and policy environments are influencing student enrollment patterns, with more students opting for larger, well-resourced institutions over smaller colleges. Concerns about program stability, access to services, and institutional resilience are driving decision-making. Larger universities are perceived as safer choices amid uncertainty, while smaller colleges face increased pressure to demonstrate value and viability. This trend reflects broader anxieties about higher education funding, regulation, and campus climate, pushing institutions to adapt their positioning and communication strategies to maintain competitiveness. Observations: Students are increasingly risk-averse, favoring institutions perceived as stable and well-resourced. Political and regulatory...
AI Adoption Rapidly Growing in Public Sector
Summary: AI adoption in the public sector has accelerated rapidly, with 43% of employees using AI by late 2025, nearing private-sector levels. Growth is driven by accessible, low-cost generative tools that enable experimentation without formal programs. However, most use remains occasional rather than routine due to limited managerial support and unclear organizational strategies. Strong leadership support significantly increases frequent use, while many employees still lack clarity on how AI applies to their work. To sustain adoption, organizations must embed AI into workflows, communicate clear strategies, and actively guide employees in practical, task-based applications. Observations: Managerial support is the strongest predictor of whether AI use becomes routine rather than...
Their Colleges Have Teamed Up to Boost Enrollment. Here’s What They’ve Learned.
Summary: Facing persistent enrollment pressures, some colleges are shifting from competition to collaboration. Leaders highlighted partnerships among institutions and with employers as a strategy to attract students and align programs with workforce needs. By sharing programs, coordinating recruitment, and creating joint academic offerings, institutions can reach broader audiences and reduce duplication. Employer partnerships are also expanding, with companies working directly with colleges to design programs that prepare students for emerging industries. Experts note that successful collaborations require clear goals, trust between partners, and a focus on student outcomes rather than institutional rivalry. These cooperative models may help institutions stabilize enrollment and better...
Poll: Voters Generally Support Limiting Grad School Borrowing
Summary: A national poll found that most U.S. voters support limiting federal loans for graduate students, reflecting concerns that unlimited borrowing allows institutions to raise tuition. Fifty-seven percent favor loan caps, while 43 percent oppose them to preserve broad access to graduate education. Beginning July 1, federal loans will be capped at $50,000 annually ($200,000 total) for professional programs and $20,500 annually ($100,000 total) for other graduate programs. Voters also support a federal “earnings test” requiring programs to demonstrate that graduates earn more than high school diploma holders—and, for graduate programs, more than bachelor’s degree holders—to retain access to federal loans. (Inside Higher Ed) Observations: Public opinion increasingly supports stronger...
Trump Effect: 40% Of International Candidates Now Less Likely To Study In U.S.
Summary: A GMAC report reveals a 15-point drop in non-U.S. candidates’ preference to study in the U.S. during 2025, attributed to visa restrictions, processing delays, and immigration uncertainties under the Trump administration. This shift caused a 19% decline in international enrollments at U.S. graduate programs, with particularly sharp drops from India (45%) and other key markets. Concurrently, Asian and European business schools are experiencing enrollment gains. The redistribution of global talent signals the need for U.S. programs to address visa challenges and evolving candidate preferences to remain competitive internationally. Observations: U.S. visa policies and delays significantly impact international candidate enrollment decisions. India remains a critical but vulnerable...
GMAC Releases Updated Admissions Reporting Standards to Strengthen Transparency for Global Business School Applicants
Summary: GMAC has updated its admissions reporting standards to enhance transparency and comparability for global business school applicants. The revised guidelines aim to provide clearer, more consistent data on enrollment and demographics, helping prospective students make informed decisions. This update addresses evolving market conditions and stresses the importance of standardized reporting to reflect diversity, program types, and applicant profiles. By improving data clarity, business schools can better communicate program value and attract a broader applicant pool, aligning admissions processes with increased demand for transparency and accountability. Observations: Transparency in admissions reporting influences applicant trust and decision-making. Standardized data collection...
As Students Turn to ChatGPT for College Searches, AI Visibility Becomes Priority
Summary: As AI tools like ChatGPT become integral to college searches, institutions must prioritize “AI visibility” by ensuring accurate, current, and comprehensive online information. Students increasingly rely on conversational AI rather than traditional search engines, reshaping how they discover and evaluate programs. Graduate business programs need to adapt marketing strategies to optimize for generative AI responses, balancing authentic student experiences with clear institutional messaging. While AI aids prospective students by simplifying data, human advisors remain crucial for personalized guidance, highlighting the need for programs to blend technology with interpersonal support. Observations: Students use AI platforms for detailed, conversational college searches rather than...
3 Questions for Katie Tomlinson on Online Program Marketing & Enrollment Management
Summary: The landscape of graduate business program marketing is rapidly evolving due to AI’s role in student discovery. AI-generated responses now shape how prospective students learn about programs, often bypassing institutional websites. Students increasingly find programs through diverse platforms like TikTok and Reddit, emphasizing the need for authentic, consistent digital presence. Institutions must optimize for AI discoverability, strengthen brand reputation, and share transparent outcomes data to build trust. This shift demands a cross-functional approach integrating marketing, enrollment, and communications to meet students’ expectations around cost, convenience, and career opportunities in an AI-driven environment. Observations: AI platforms now serve as primary information...
MBA Applications Are Way Down This Cycle. Is America Driving Away The World’s Talent?
Summary: U.S. MBA programs face unprecedented declines in applications, especially from international candidates, driven primarily by restrictive U.S. immigration policies rather than economic factors. Visa delays, stricter work authorization programs like H-1B and OPT, and geopolitical tensions have made studying in the U.S. less attractive compared to Canada and Europe. This shift threatens the long-standing global talent pipeline that sustains U.S. graduate business education. While some normalization after pandemic surges is expected, the scale and persistence of international drop-offs highlight urgent challenges for business schools reliant on diverse, global cohorts. Observations: International MBA applications to U.S. programs have dropped sharply, some by over 40%. Visa...
Will Graduate Schools Accept 3-Year Degrees?
Summary: Graduate schools are gradually becoming open to admitting students with three-year bachelor’s degrees, especially as these programs gain traction domestically and internationally. A recent study reveals that while many institutions still officially require the traditional 120 credits, exceptions are possible, and policy shifts are expected. Master’s programs show more flexibility than doctoral ones, which remain cautious, particularly at elite schools. The acceptance of these degrees hinges on their prevalence and prestige, as well as clear communication about their rigor. Graduate programs must prepare to evaluate nontraditional credentials thoughtfully as three-year degrees become more common. Observations: Many graduate schools currently exclude reduced-credit degrees but...
ASU’s Operation Comeback has already 700 people interested in returning to college to get degree
Summary: Arizona State University’s Operation Comeback addresses the challenge of college non-completion by encouraging former students to return and finish their degrees. With about 700 individuals already interested, the initiative offers tailored advising, clear pathways, and financial support. It recognizes multifaceted reasons for student attrition, including financial, personal, and academic pressures. The program also responds to broader concerns like student debt burdens and employer demands for degree credentials in a competitive job market. Additionally, ASU works to support international students amid visa challenges and navigates uncertain research funding to maintain faculty engagement and institutional strength. Observations: Nearly one-third of college starters nationwide...
Trump’s ICE Campaign Isn’t Just Unwelcoming – It’s Deadly, And It’s Undermining American Higher Education
Summary: The Trump administration’s aggressive ICE enforcement and related rhetoric are damaging America’s reputation globally, deterring international students from enrolling in U.S. graduate programs. Graphic videos of harsh immigration actions and a fatal shooting by ICE agents amplify fears and skepticism among prospective students and their families. This shift threatens enrollment, especially in MBA, STEM, and professional programs heavily reliant on international talent. The decline risks financial instability for many institutions and diminishes America's long-term influence, as international students often become key cultural and economic ambassadors. Universities must now contend with a reputational crisis that undermines their traditional value proposition. Observations:...
Enrollment Trends Shaping Business Education in 2026
Summary: As graduate business programs navigate a complex global landscape, student enrollment reflects growing demand for flexibility, transparency, and clear career alignment. Reputation and rankings remain pivotal, especially in regions like Asia Pacific, but evolving student needs—such as managing work, family, and visa challenges—are shifting preferences toward online and hybrid learning formats. This shift calls for programs to offer more accessible, adaptable options without compromising return on investment. Institutions that embrace transparency around outcomes and partner closely with industry better meet these cautious, strategic learners' expectations, preparing graduates for a rapidly changing business environment. Observations: Institutional reputation and rankings continue...
7 MBA Admissions Trends for 2026
Summary: MBA admissions in 2026 are shaped by a convergence of factors including AI’s expanding role, shifting international applicant pools, and evolving diversity priorities. Schools are moving toward holistic evaluations that emphasize authentic human judgment, coherence across application components, and video assessments to capture spontaneity. Domestic U.S. applications remain strong, while international demand shifts toward European and Asian programs. Admissions committees prioritize candidates’ ethical judgment, leadership growth, and ability to collaborate in diverse settings. Post-MBA career success increasingly depends on integrating AI effectively and demonstrating adaptive leadership amid evolving industry demands. Observations: AI use in applications is prevalent but...
Is higher education ready for generation alpha?
Summary: Generation Alpha, emerging in higher education by 2029, will transform learning with expectations shaped by seamless digital experiences, immediacy, and authenticity. Unlike previous generations, they demand flexible, interactive, and relevant education, rejecting rigid and outdated methods. Their diverse, globally connected, and socially conscious backgrounds require institutions to foster inclusive, responsive environments. Preparing for Gen Alpha challenges universities to prototype innovative teaching models, integrate AI, and rethink assessments, balancing academic rigor and cultural readiness. With foresight and adaptability, graduate business programs can better serve this next generation's needs and thrive in a complex multigenerational educational ecosystem....
Grad Loan Caps Could Hurt Students With Low Credit Scores
Summary: New federal loan caps set to take effect July 1 limit graduate borrowing to $100,000, impacting students with low or no credit scores who often rely on higher loans. A study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia and American University reveals nearly 40% of graduate borrowers face challenges securing private loans due to credit risks, threatening access to costly, high-value programs. While some professional degrees retain higher loan limits, many low-income students risk being shut out. The findings highlight the growing divide between federal support and private lending, emphasizing the need to reconsider financing structures for graduate education. Observations: Nearly 40% of graduate borrowers have subprime or no credit, limiting access to private loans. Loan caps...
Three Reasons We Can’t Get Enough of LinkedIn
Summary: LinkedIn has surged to 1.3 billion members and 17 billion USD in revenue by prioritizing professional trust over toxic engagement. Its foundational real-name requirement fosters civility and encourages higher-level discourse centered on business fundamentals rather than rumors. By utilizing an algorithm that promotes "economic opportunity" and constructive content, the platform has evolved from a job-search tool into a daily hub for insightful professional writing. Professionals are increasingly migrating there to escape the controversy and declining moderation prevalent on other social media platforms. Observations: Real-identity verification acts as a powerful deterrent against toxicity, as users are less likely to post content that might alienate potential recruiters or...
B-Schools Need A Structural Reset: Why Career Services Should Sit Above Academic Programs
Summary: The article argues for a fundamental restructuring of business schools by proposing that career services should lead academic program development, reversing the traditional hierarchy. This shift is driven by the growing discrepancy between academic content and the competencies employers seek, such as digital fluency, cross-functional adaptability, and leadership. It suggests that real-time labor market demands, rather than academic tradition, should inform curriculum design, making business education more agile, responsive, and aligned with current job market needs. Observations: The traditional hierarchy within business schools, where academic programs lead and career services follow, is becoming obsolete. There is a significant gap between the skills taught in business schools...
Report: Business Education Is ‘Transforming, Not Declining’ – As MBA Enrollment Slips & Specialized Programs Surge
Summary: According to Enrollment Trends at AACSB Business Schools: 2025, a report released by AACSB International, graduate business education is undergoing a structural rebalancing rather than a decline. While traditional MBA enrollment has slipped by 6% over five years, specialized master’s programs have surged, now accounting for over half of all global enrollments. Growth is increasingly fueled by international students, although rising geopolitical and visa pressures threaten this stability. Additionally, MBA delivery is shifting toward flexible and online formats, reflecting changing student preferences. Success for institutions now depends on adapting to these evolving employer needs and demographic shifts. Observations: Specialized master's programs are surpassing MBAs in global...
Are Trump’s policies eroding U.S. dominance in MBA education?
Summary: The United States' long-standing dominance in MBA education is facing significant challenges due to shifting political climates and restrictive visa policies. These factors have created an environment perceived as unwelcoming by international candidates, driving interest toward European and Asian business schools. As visa hurdles increase and domestic-first admission pressures rise, U.S. institutions risk losing the global talent and diversity critical to modern business education. Consequently, international competitors are gaining market share, forcing U.S. programs to rethink recruitment strategies and global footprints to maintain their competitive edge in a volatile geopolitical landscape. Observations: U.S. visa tightening and political rhetoric are actively redirecting...
Enrollment Trends at AACSB Business Schools: 2025
Extracted Content: This report provides an in-depth look at undergraduate and master’s enrollment trends using data from AACSB-accredited schools that participated in the Business School Questionnaire (BSQ) Programs Module, including the most recent 2024–25 results. It addresses some of the most common questions about business school enrollment patterns and highlights emerging shifts influencing today’s business education environment. To ensure meaningful year-over-year comparisons, the analysis focuses on a controlled group of institutions that have consistently reported data across the selected time period. While this approach reduces the overall sample size, it provides a clearer and more reliable view of how enrollment patterns are truly evolving. Citation: AACSB. “Enrollment...
US job market, politics fuel 8% surge in law school enrollment
Summary: U.S. law school enrollment surged by 8% in 2025, reaching its highest level since 2011. This growth is primarily driven by a cooling job market for liberal arts graduates seeking a "safe harbor" and a heightened political climate following the 2024 election. While graduate business programs often compete for the same high-achieving candidates, law schools are currently successfully capturing Gen Z’s interest in advocacy and social justice. This resurgence occurs despite rising tuition costs, suggesting that domestic graduate students are prioritizing career stability and civic engagement over immediate return-on-investment concerns. Observations: Law school is increasingly viewed as a counter-cyclical hedge against a softening job market for non-technical undergraduates....
Learning Evaluation Is Working as Designed
Summary: A new report highlights systemic inefficiencies in credit evaluation processes across colleges, revealing how outdated policies devalue learning brought by community college students and adult learners, thereby increasing costs, time, and frustration for students. The Learning Evaluation and Recognition for the Next Generation (LEARN) Commission advocates a mindset shift to maximize credential applicability and streamline learning evaluation by focusing on educational outcomes rather than rigid criteria. Recommendations include aligning credit evaluation based on a 70% learning outcomes match, standardizing precedent-setting credit decisions, enhancing student data systems, and investing in human capital to create sustainable structural, relational, and transformational change....
This University Was Struggling. Now It’s Engineering an Enrollment Turnaround.
Summary: La Salle University’s transformation, detailed in "The Comeback College," provides a blueprint for institutional recovery through four strategic pillars: community enrichment, operational modernization, targeted recruitment, and academic diversification. By reintroducing athletics and centralizing student success hubs, the university fostered a sense of belonging that significantly drove enrollment. Simultaneously, streamlining enrollment processes and accelerating financial aid timelines improved conversion rates. This holistic approach—including launching high-demand programs like cybersecurity and sports management—demonstrates how mid-sized institutions can overcome financial instability and demographic shifts by focusing on personalized student engagement and market-aligned...
Report: Cost Is Graduate Enrollment ‘Gatekeeper’
Summary: A recent report has spotlighted how the rising costs associated with graduate programs serve as potential barriers to enrollment. The analysis underscores significant disparities in access to graduate education, correlating closely with socioeconomic factors. Many programs have initiated responses to address these barriers, including revising fee structures and increasing funding opportunities to attract a broader demographic of students. The emphasis is on creating more equitable access to advanced education, enabling a more diverse pool of candidates to further their academic and professional goals. Observations: Economic Barriers to Enrollment: High costs disproportionately affect students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, limiting access to graduate education....
Purdue effectively bans grad students from China, other countries, faculty say
Summary: Purdue University is reportedly discouraging the admission of graduate students from "adversary nations," particularly China, Russia, Iran, Venezuela, Cuba, and North Korea. This action is attributed to federal scrutiny and fears over national security and technology theft. Faculty members, speaking under the condition of anonymity, revealed an unwritten verbal policy directing them to pre-emptively reject applicants from these countries. The changes have fueled confusion and moral dilemmas among staff and may have impacts on the diversity and inclusivity of the academic environment. Observations: Selective Admissions Pressure: Purdue University appears to be pressuring faculty to steer admissions away from students from certain countries, without a formal policy. Unwritten...
What to Know About Trump’s Definition of Professional Degrees
Summary: The Trump administration's proposed plan caps federal loans for advanced degrees, sparking debate on what constitutes a "professional" program. This policy, influenced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, distinguishes between professional and graduate degrees, affecting eligibility for federal loans. Despite online criticism over potential disrespect towards certain professions, the Department of Education clarifies its intention to regulate loan access, not the value of specific degrees. The proposed caps aim at curbing federal spending on student loans, responding to rising national student loan debt. Observations: The proposed loan cap differentiates between "professional" and other graduate degrees based on specific criteria, impacting the amount students can borrow. The...
6 Disruptive Trends Reshaping College Admissions And The Future Of Workforce Training
Summary: The landscape of higher education is shifting rapidly, driven by six key disruptive trends that challenge traditional college admissions and redefine workforce training. Institutions are simplifying applications, cutting supplemental essays, and reorganizing programs to focus on high-demand skills. This transformation reflects pressures from changing demographics and the rise of affordable, skills-based training alternatives. Graduate programs must embrace strategic streamlining, prioritize accessibility, and align curricula with evolving market needs to remain relevant. These shifts invite us to rethink education not just as a credentialing process but as a flexible, learner-centered journey fostering career readiness and inclusion. Observations: Simplified application...
4 Reasons Why Business School Applications Rose as Visa Policies Changed
Summary: Total applications to graduate management education (GME) programs increased by seven percent in 2025, driven by significant shifts in applicant behavior. International applications favored Asia and Europe, moving away from the U.S., U.K., and Canada, due to visa policies and geopolitical concerns. Students showed a strong, renewed preference for full-time, in-person programs, which experienced eight percent growth. Furthermore, schools are integrating AI into 84 percent of curricula for strategic decision-making and are utilizing non-degree credentials to meet evolving skills needs and strengthen corporate partnerships. Observations: Geopolitics Dictate Mobility: Macro factors like visa policy, economic changes, and geopolitics are major drivers of application volume, causing...
How Will New Student Loan Caps Impact Graduate Students?
Summary: A Forbes article by Edward Conroy explores the potential consequences of new federal student loan caps on graduate students, particularly in fields like business, law, and medicine, where tuition costs are high. These caps could constrain students’ access to funding, forcing them to seek alternative financing methods such as private loans. Experts are concerned about the rising financial barriers to advanced degrees, which may particularly impact students from low-income or underrepresented backgrounds. Institutions may need to re-evaluate tuition structures, financial aid strategies, and cost-reduction opportunities to ensure accessibility and equity in graduate education. Observations: New federal student loan caps might limit access to sufficient funding for costly graduate...
The Boss Has a Message: Use AI or You’re Fired
Summary: Companies are increasingly pushing employees to adopt AI tools, sometimes using the threat of job loss instead of incentives. The new workplace threat isn't just being replaced by AI, but by a colleague who knows how to use it. Firms like Accenture and IgniteTech are "exiting" or cutting staff who resist AI adoption, while others, such as McKinsey and KPMG, are incorporating AI proficiency into performance reviews and hiring prioritization. This shift necessitates that employees demonstrate an "AI will," not just skill." Observations: AI Proficiency is a Mandate, not an Option: Major corporations are using job cuts and performance reviews to enforce the rapid integration of AI tools by their staff. The Hiring and Retention Benchmark is Shifting: Companies like Multiverse are...
International Graduate Student Enrollment Drops
Summary: The recent report highlights a worrying trend of declining international graduate student enrollment in U.S. colleges due to federal immigration policies. With a significant average decrease of 29% among surveyed institutions, this downturn is particularly pronounced in master’s and doctoral programs, directly impacting universities’ financial and academic landscapes. This fluctuation poses a substantial challenge to business schools, necessitating adaptation and proactive measures to mitigate adverse effects and sustain the diverse, global learning environment essential for enriching graduate business education. Observations: Federal immigration policies significantly influence international student enrollment decisions, affecting the demographic landscape of U.S. graduate...
Eduvantis-Business-Deans-Survey-Report-Oct-2025-Final.pdf
Summary: The Fall 2025 Eduvantis Business School Deans Survey reveals a significant decline in international student enrollments in U.S. graduate business programs, with two-thirds of deans reporting decreases beyond their initial projections. The survey highlights concerns over visa acquisition challenges and diminishing perceptions of the U.S. as an attractive destination for graduate studies. Strategic responses from some institutions—focused on enhancing domestic enrollments, developing new international markets, and restructuring their value propositions—indicate a critical juncture for U.S. business schools to either adapt aggressively or face managed decline. Observations: A substantial decline in international student enrollment has occurred, signaling a market shift rather than...
Big 4 Becomes Big 14 in Dominating International Education
Summary: The landscape of international education is shifting from the dominance of the "big four" destinations (United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada) to a more competitive environment encompassing "big 14" countries. This change is attributed to factors like affordability, geographic proximity, linguistic familiarity, and better employment opportunities, with countries like Hong Kong, Ireland, Korea, Malaysia, and others emerging as key competitors. The trend underlines the importance of robust marketing, showcasing, and an emphasis on quality and integrity in education to attract international students in this expanded competitive field. Observations: The international education market is diversifying beyond the traditional "big four," with students exploring new...
Global MBA Boom Cools: U.S., UK & Canada Lose Applicants As Asia Surge
Summary: The global demand for graduate management education continues to rise, but the landscape is shifting. The Graduate Management Admission Council's 2025 Application Trends Survey highlights a 7% increase in business program applications, revealing resilience amidst economic and geopolitical instability. However, a decline in enrollments is evident in the U.S., UK, and Canada, attributed to changing visa policies and competition from abroad. At the same time, Asia and Europe experience application surges. Emerging trends include increased integration of AI within curricula, variable admissions policies toward AI use, a focus on sustainability in business education, and steady female participation rates. Observations: Traditional full-time MBA and specialized master's programs are...
This Year’s Drop in International Students Portends Worse. Here’s What That Would Cost.
Summary: Arizona State University (ASU) is experiencing challenges with international student enrollment due to global visa delays, as highlighted by the case of Onkar Falle, an Indian student who arrived nearly a month late for the fall semester due to delayed visa appointments. This issue highlights a broader trend where universities feel the impact of declining international student numbers, not only in financial terms but also in terms of diversity and the global perspectives these students bring to campus. Institutions are grappling with how to adapt to and mitigate these disruptions in a rapidly shifting global environment. Observations: International student enrollment delays are impacting campus diversity and financial resources for U.S. universities like ASU. Visa delays are...
UCLA Anderson’s International MBA Population Has Declined By 1/4 In Two Years
Summary: The UCLA Anderson School of Management has experienced a notable 12-point decrease in its international MBA student population over two years, from nearly half to 35%. This trend mirrors a national pullback in international student enrollment across top U.S. MBA programs, influenced by a challenging U.S. visa environment under the Trump administration, heightened by new H-1B restrictions, and exacerbated by the rising costs of an MBA in the U.S. Despite this, Anderson's class remains competitive and diverse, with a healthy mix of academic backgrounds and a slight uptick in female representation. Observations: International student enrollment at elite U.S. MBA programs, including UCLA Anderson, is declining due to visa challenges and increased education costs. Adjustments in the...
What Taylor Swift Can Teach Us About Marketing, Enrollment and Product Launches
Summary: Taylor Swift's marketing approach for her album "The Life of a Showgirl" exemplifies how creating anticipation, blending high production with authenticity, and engaging fans can revolutionize marketing strategies. Swift's methods—incorporating spectacle, vulnerability, cryptic campaigns, and extending products into experiential realms—offer valuable insights for higher education marketing. These strategies emphasize the importance of storytelling, participatory campaigns, and creating immersive experiences to deepen connections and enhance brand impact. Observations: Swift's success highlights the effectiveness of blending high production values with authentic, relatable content to build trust and aspiration. The use of cryptic drip campaigns and symbolism to engage audiences...
Tribal colleges and universities aren’t well known, but are a crucial steppingstone for Native students
Summary: Tribal colleges and universities (TCUs) are pivotal institutions that cater specifically to Native American students, offering an affordable pathway to higher education and a strong emphasis on Indigenous history, culture, and languages. Despite their low profile and chronic underfunding, TCUs provide significant educational opportunities and economic benefits, including entrepreneurship and business development programs. These colleges not only support the academic and professional growth of Native American students but also contribute positively to the broader economy, returning more in tax revenue than they receive in federal funding. Observations: TCUs play a significant role in increasing the rate of higher education attainment among Native American populations. These...
International Student Arrivals Drop 19%
Summary: The report reveals a 19% drop in international student arrivals in the U.S. in August 2025 compared to the previous year, despite Department of Homeland Security data suggesting otherwise. This decline aligns with the challenges of visa delays and changes in immigration policies, potentially due to the Trump administration's actions. Despite this, some colleges reported an increase in international enrollment, raising questions about enrollment calculation methods and the resilience of the U.S. as an educational destination amid policy shocks. Observations: International student arrivals faced significant decreases, particularly from countries directly impacted by U.S. travel bans and visa policies. The discrepancy between entry data and enrollment figures suggests variations in...
Fewer foreign students, fewer dollars: US colleges feel the pinch
Summary: Due to changes in federal policies under the Trump administration, U.S. colleges such as DePaul University are facing significant financial pressures, primarily fueled by sharp declines in international student enrollment. These institutions are contending with reduced academic research funding and stringent visa processing rules, which discourage prospective foreign students. The sector’s need for international students stretches beyond financial incentives—diversity and academic richness hinge on their inclusion. As university budgets contract, the education landscape grapples with a redefined operational model influenced heavily by political landscapes. Observations: Dependent on international students for financial robustness, universities find operations constrained under...