Issues: Higher Education

Student Services

MDRC is investigating programs that integrate traditional instruction with such services as academic and nonacademic counseling, course preparation assistance, and career guidance to help students stay in school and succeed academically, while managing the competing demands of school, work, and family.

The Latest
Brief

Texas Takes On Transfer Grants

Only a fraction of community college students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution actually do. The Texas Transfer Grant Pilot Program was launched to improve transfer rates and bachelor’s degree attainment. It increased the proportion of students who enrolled in a Texas public four-year institution.

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Full
Brief

Improving Outcomes for Men of Color in College: Recommendations for Advancing Success in the “Dual Pandemics”

The combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and racial unrest over the last few years has been referred to as the “dual pandemics.” These challenges have contributed to startling college enrollment declines for men of color. This brief shares four strategies that colleges and universities can employ to better support them.

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Key Documents
Report

Serving Community College Students on Probation

Four-Year Findings from Chaffey College’s Opening Doors Program

This program included a “College Success” course and offered enhanced counseling. A change from optional to required services led to increased program participation, and the new program decreased the percentage on academic probation after the two program semesters. Nevertheless, after four years, the program had no discernible effect on academic outcomes.

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Issue Focus

Frequently Asked Questions About CUNY’s Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP)

MDRC’s evaluation of CUNY’s ASAP, which showed that the program is doubling the graduation rate of students who start with developmental needs, has gained a lot of attention. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we’ve received about ASAP and the study — as well as their answers.

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Testimony

Additional Testimony on Opportunities to Improve Student Success in the Higher Education Act

Submitted to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions

Following up on testimony delivered before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee on August 5, 2015, Lashawn Richburg-Hayes submitted additional information on opportunities for innovation in financial aid and student support services in the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act.

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