Welcome to this week’s Monday Musings! Higher education is evolving as institutions address the rise of nontraditional students, student retention challenges, and emerging policy debates. Let’s look at the key developments shaping the sector this week.

1. The Rise Of Nontraditional Students In Higher Education

A new report from the Manhattan Institute highlights the increasing presence of nontraditional students—those who are older, employed, or balancing family responsibilities. These students now represent the majority of enrollees, pushing institutions to rethink policies, support services, and program structures to better accommodate their needs.

Key Takeaway: Institutions must adapt their strategies to support a growing population of nontraditional learners.

2. Much About Retention in This Week’s News

Care In The College Classroom Impacts Student Retention

Research shows that faculty engagement plays a major role in student persistence. Professors who demonstrate care, provide timely feedback, and create an inclusive learning environment contribute to higher retention rates. Institutions are encouraged to implement teaching practices that prioritize student well-being.

Quick Insight: Investing in student-faculty relationships can directly impact academic success.

Retention Tied To Timely Completion For College Students

Studies reveal that structured academic pathways and clear graduation timelines are crucial for student persistence. Colleges that proactively guide students toward timely degree completion see better retention rates.

Key Action: Institutions should strengthen advising programs and structured degree pathways to help students stay on track.

3. Survey: Students On Media Literacy & How Colleges Can Help

A recent survey found that while students recognize the value of media literacy, many feel unprepared to critically evaluate information sources. The findings point to a growing need for colleges to integrate media literacy into curricula, equipping students with essential skills to navigate misinformation and digital content.

Quick Insight: Expanding media literacy programs can better prepare students for an information-driven world.

4. House Passes Bill To Restrict Transgender Students’ Participation In Women’s Sports

The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives in a 218-206 vote, primarily along party lines. The bill would prohibit federally funded institutions from allowing transgender women and girls to compete on teams that align with their gender identity. Opponents argue the bill could lead to discriminatory practices and invasive verification procedures. A similar measure has been introduced in the Senate but faces challenges under the 60-vote filibuster rule.

Key Takeaway: The bill's future remains uncertain, but its passage signals ongoing policy debates surrounding gender and athletics in higher education.

5. Federal Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging McNair Program’s Race-Based Criteria

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, which provides support for underrepresented students pursuing graduate education. The case, brought by Young America’s Foundation and two students, argued that the program’s race-based criteria violated equal protection rights. The judge ruled that the plaintiffs lacked standing, noting that the Department of Education does not administer the program exclusively.

Quick Insight: While this ruling maintains current eligibility criteria, legal challenges to race-conscious education programs continue.

Published: January 27, 2025