Calling higher education one of the nation’s “undeniable strengths,” Education Secretary Margaret Spellings outlined plans last fall to reform America’s system of colleges and universities, promising to make them more accessible, affordable, and accountable. These goals have impacted colleges and universities in various ways.

For instance on the accountability measure, more four-year schools have started to revoke admission offers to students whose senior grades dramatically drop or who do not complete the rigorous course of study they promised in their application. Community colleges have also faced challenges. These schools serve nearly half of the country's undergraduates. But by some counts, fewer than half of community college students meet their educational goals, and that has impacted efforts to educate local workforces and make the United States more competitive.

In terms of accessibility, grading scales have made it a challenge for students to apply to college. Experts explain that grading scales vary widely among K–12 school systems, and often within schools, which makes it difficult for admission officers to compare grades when selecting students. Meanwhile, some schools have eliminated their early admission programs, saying it puts low–income and minority applicants at a distinct disadvantage. Reports indicate that despite significant gains in minority undergraduate and graduate enrollments, the rate at which black and Hispanic students attend college continues to trail that of white students. A key reason some minority college students are not persistent in pursuing a college education is because "they are simply running out of money,” says one college president.

The challenge of affording a college education can be attributed to the rising cost of obtaining a bachelor’s degree. During the past five years, the average tuition increased by 35% (adjusted for inflation) at four–year public colleges, according to the College Board. Inflation rose 13.8% during the same period.

Read more about these issues in the articles listed below.

Education Secretary Announces Plans to Reform Higher Education
NSTA Reports

Colleges Crackdown on Taking Freshmen with ‘Senioritis’
San Francisco Chronicle

Community Colleges Aim for More Respect
Christian Science Monitor

So Many Grading Scales. What’s An Admissions Director to Do?
Washington Post (Requires free registration)

Minority Enrollment in College Still Lagging
USA Today

More Colleges Helping With Disabilities
Denver Post

States Give Failing Grade to Graduation Rates
Christian Science Monitor

Accepted Into Education City
DiverseEducation.com