Future U Podcast - The Pulse of Higher Ed

When College is About the Job

May 21, 2024

Terrell Dunn, a higher education specialist, discusses the shift towards job-focused college experiences, the importance of job guarantees, integrating work experiences into curriculum, and colleges explaining their value for student support.

35:58

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Episode guests

Terrell Dunn

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Quick takeaways

Colleges should focus on job outcomes and guarantee employment for graduates.

Providing students with exposure to diverse career paths and integrating work experiences into the college curriculum is beneficial.

Deep dives

Tectonic Shift in College Enrollment

College enrollment has significantly decreased, with public skepticism about the value of a college degree playing a critical role. Recent research highlighted high school students' doubts, leading to a decline in undergraduate enrollment from 2011. Factors contributing to the shift include concerns about job security post-education and alternatives like job training or certification courses gaining appeal.

Shifting College Enrollment Trends

01:37

Comprehensive Gap Year Experience for Non-Enrollees

01:20

Intro

4min

Exploring College Enrollment Declines: High School Perspectives vs. Non-Enrollees' Insights

12min

The Value and Role of Colleges in Securing Good Jobs

7min

Navigating Education and Job Opportunities

7min

Influence of Social Media on Teenagers' Career Aspirations

2min

Guidance and Support for Individuals in Transition

5min

There has been an exodus from higher ed - that much is understood. But what's causing it and what can we do to ensure students are still accessing pathways to opportunity? In this episode, Jeff and Michael grapple with this question with the help of Terrell Dunn whose recent research, done in partnership with HCM Strategists and Edge Research, addresses this very topic. They discuss the increasing focus on job outcomes revealed in her findings and consider the role of colleges in supporting - or even ensuring - employment for their graduates. The conversation touches on the importance of providing students with exposure to diverse career paths and the potential benefits and challenges of integrating work experiences into the college curriculum. This episode is made with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.