Report is the culmination of a two-year study by more than 30 lawmakers across the country

University of Phoenix, a proud supporter and active member of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Task Force on Higher Education, a bipartisan task force, is pleased to share the release of a comprehensive report addressing the critical issues facing higher education today. The report, “A State-Led Strategy to Enhance the Value of Degrees,” results from a two-year study and provides a broad assessment of the state and federal roles in higher education.

In response to growing concerns about the affordability and value of higher education, state legislative leaders from over 30 states convened in Washington, D.C., to present a three-part report that outlines a strategic vision for higher education policy and a coordinated approach to enhancing the value of college degrees.

“At University of Phoenix, we are proud to be at the forefront of advancing higher education,” states University of Phoenix Vice President of State Government Affairs & Relations, Gary Schleuger, JD. “Our sponsorship of the NCSL Task Force on Higher Education highlights our dedication to addressing critical issues in the sector. By collaborating with a bipartisan group of state legislators to develop innovative solutions, we aim to enhance the value of college degrees and ensure that higher education remains accessible and beneficial for all learners.”

According to the NCSL, the task force represents the first bipartisan group of state legislators to thoroughly examine the U.S. higher education system in nearly two decades. The recommendations come at a crucial time, as public confidence in colleges and universities has declined and college enrollments continue to drop.

The report emphasizes the need for collaboration between state governments, educational institutions, and federal partners, and supports a bipartisan process to reauthorize the Higher Education Act.

Key recommendations from the report include:

• A State-Led Strategy to Enhance the Value of Degrees: This includes more than 30 actionable steps that states, institutions, and federal partners can take, either collaboratively or independently, to ensure that more students earn valuable degrees.
• Evaluating the Performance of the U.S. Higher Education System: The report urges higher education institutions to adapt to the needs of today’s students, who may benefit from non-traditional educational models.
• Clarifying the State-Federal Relationship in Higher Education: The task force advocates for a federal approach that prioritizes transparency and improvement to support state goals, rather than expanding federal roles in affordability and accountability.

The report also highlights trends in higher education affordability and student outcomes, along with recent and historical developments in state and federal policy. The task force aims to inspire action at both the state and federal levels to implement policies that ensure better outcomes for more students nationwide.

The full report may be downloaded here.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu/blog.html.

About The NCSL Task Force on Higher Education

The NCSL Task Force on Higher Education is the first bipartisan effort of state legislators on national issues in higher education since 2006 and includes legislators and legislative staff from 32 states. The task force has committed to continuing its work in pursuit of its strategy to ensure more students receive degrees of value.

NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system. Stay connected with NCSL on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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