Author: Educational Policy Institute

The Educational Policy Institute (EPI) is a Virginia-based, not-for-profit think tank on education and the social sciences. EPI conducts evaluation and policy studies on various educational issues from Pre-K to workforce outcomes in the United States, Canada, and beyond. Visit us at www.educationalpolicy.org.
2026, admissions, Advising, College Access, College Affordability, Financial Aid, Research/Policy, Retention, ROI/College Outcomes, Student Success, Workforce

Beyond the Earnings Premium: What Provosts/CAOs Need to Know About the New ROI Agenda in Higher Education

The ROI of Higher Education explores the evolving value of college degrees amid rising costs and skepticism. It emphasizes the necessity for institutions to demonstrate educational attainment’s impact on economic and social outcomes. Leaders must prioritize student completion, integrate experiential learning, and align curricula with workforce needs to maintain relevance and value in higher education. Continue reading Beyond the Earnings Premium: What Provosts/CAOs Need to Know About the New ROI Agenda in Higher Education

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2026, College Access, College Affordability, Research/Policy, Student Success

Things That Sound Too Good to Be True (They Are)

Watson Scott Swail examines the limitations of large charitable donations, like MacKenzie Scott’s $42 million gift to 10,000 Degrees, aiming to improve college access. While these initiatives provide immediate benefits to some students, their scale and duration are insufficient to effect nationwide change. Sustainable public funding and early interventions are crucial for lasting impact. Continue reading Things That Sound Too Good to Be True (They Are)

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2026, ROI/College Outcomes, Workforce

Mark Cuban and the Job Skills that are Worthless Today

Mark Cuban’s insights highlight four job skills rendered obsolete by AI: routine coding, basic data analysis, generic finance and legal work, and non-creative tasks. As AI enhances efficiency, the focus should shift to preparing the workforce for roles requiring creativity and critical thinking. Educational institutions must adapt to these evolving demands. Continue reading Mark Cuban and the Job Skills that are Worthless Today

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2026, Research/Policy

AI, Research, and the New Academic Divide

A recent survey indicates that while most academics have not utilized AI for writing, 58 percent support its limited use. Though resistance exists, many students embrace AI, highlighting a divide with faculty. AI enhances research efficiency, prompting discussions about ethical use in academia as the landscape shifts dramatically. Continue reading AI, Research, and the New Academic Divide

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2026, Politics, Research/Policy

U.S. Senate Makes a Move on the NCAA and College Sports

The U.S. Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act, establishing a framework for college athletics while granting the NCAA limited antitrust exemptions. The act allows athletes greater rights regarding transfer, compensation, and medical costs. Despite bipartisan support, critics argue it undermines athletes’ power and maintains NCAA dominance, indicating ongoing debate ahead. Continue reading U.S. Senate Makes a Move on the NCAA and College Sports

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