According to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE), high school graduates will peak at 3.8 million students in 2025, leading to a more gradual decline in college enrollment over the next 15 years. An approximate 15% gradual decline in enrollment would allow institutions and policymakers time to prepare for anticipated financial hardships, potential institution closures, and other demographic shifts. Additional contributing factors to the enrollment decline are the current economy and job market and the increased skepticism about the value of higher education. Preventative measures that can assist institutions’ ability to succeed include: retention rates, implementation of equity and inclusion, and a greater shift to a non-traditional learning environment.
