New Course: Topics in Higher Education Policy

In this course, students will explore in depth issues of public policy and higher education in the United States. The role of the federal and state governments in governing, funding, assessing, and influencing both public and private institutions of higher education will be examined. While the emphasis will be on the post-World War II period, the course will also provide a brief overview of the intersection of the federal and state governments and higher education institutions back to the colonial era. The course will include guest speakers from governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations that work on issues of higher education policy.

Topics covered in the course will include:

• History of the relationship between states and colleges and universities
• The development of the federal role in higher education
• Government funding of research and economic development
• Public support for students
• Access and equity in higher education, and the role of governments
• Accountability, accreditation, and assessment
• Lobbying
• Policy research and analysis

In conjunction with the instructor, students will choose a topic for a semester-long research project related to public policy and higher education.

The course assumes an introductory knowledge of public policy theory, as well as basic knowledge of issues related to public policy and higher education in the United States. Prerequisite: EDTHP 587. EDLDR 587, or HIED 587 or permission of the instructor.

HI ED 597C Topics in Higher Education Policy

Mondays, 09:05A - 12:05P, 303 RACKLEY

Professor Donald E. Heller