I’m thrilled to sit down with Camille Faivre, a renowned expert in education management who has been at the forefront of shaping higher education strategies in the post-pandemic era. With a deep focus on open and e-learning programs, Camille has worked tirelessly with institutions to adapt to changing student needs and market demands. Today, we’ll dive into the latest trends in undergraduate and graduate enrollment, explore shifts in student preferences for fields of study, and discuss the growing appeal of trade programs and community colleges based on recent preliminary data from a prominent research center. Let’s get started!
Can you walk us through the recent 2.4% increase in undergraduate enrollment this fall and what might be fueling this growth for the third consecutive year?
Absolutely, Javier. This 2.4% increase in undergraduate enrollment is a promising sign of sustained recovery and interest in higher education. I believe several factors are at play here. First, there’s a growing recognition of the value of a college degree in securing stable employment, especially as the job market becomes more competitive. Additionally, the expansion of accessible pathways, like online and hybrid programs, has made it easier for non-traditional students—such as working adults or parents—to enroll. Lastly, institutions, especially community colleges, have been proactive in offering financial aid and flexible schedules, which are huge draws for students who might have hesitated in the past.
How does this 2% overall rise in higher education enrollment stack up against trends from previous years?
Compared to previous years, this 2% overall increase is a positive shift. If we look back a few years, especially during the height of the pandemic, we saw significant drops in enrollment as students deferred plans due to uncertainty or financial strain. The past three years, however, have shown a steady climb, particularly at the undergraduate level. This 2% growth signals that we’re not just recovering but potentially stabilizing, though it’s worth noting that the pace of growth is still slower than pre-pandemic levels when annual increases sometimes hit 3-4%. It’s a cautious optimism, I’d say.
Why do you think graduate enrollment has remained nearly flat, with only a 0.1% uptick?
Graduate enrollment staying almost flat at 0.1% reflects a more complex dynamic. Many potential graduate students are weighing the cost-benefit of advanced degrees in a tight economy. For some, entering the workforce sooner or upskilling through shorter, more affordable programs seems more practical than committing to a multi-year graduate track. Additionally, with master’s programs seeing a slight decline, it suggests that students might be questioning the immediate return on investment, especially in fields where job prospects aren’t guaranteed. It’s a pragmatic approach in uncertain times.
Speaking of master’s programs, what do you think is behind the 0.6% drop in enrollment this fall?
The 0.6% decline in master’s enrollment likely ties back to economic concerns and shifting priorities. Master’s degrees often require a significant financial and time investment, and right now, many students are looking for quicker ways to boost their credentials—think certificates or professional training. There’s also a growing skepticism about whether a master’s degree offers a distinct edge in certain industries, especially when employers are increasingly valuing skills over formal education. I’ve seen this hesitation firsthand in conversations with prospective students who are opting for more immediate, cost-effective options.
On the flip side, doctoral programs saw a 1.1% increase. What might be encouraging more students to pursue doctoral studies?
The 1.1% rise in doctoral enrollment is interesting and, I think, reflects a niche but growing demand for specialized expertise. In fields like health, education, and research-driven sectors, a doctorate can be a clear path to leadership roles or academic positions, which are often more secure and prestigious. Additionally, some students might see doctoral programs as a way to differentiate themselves in a crowded job market. I’ve also noticed more funding opportunities and fellowships for doctoral candidates, which can offset the financial burden and make the commitment more appealing.
Let’s talk about shifts in fields of study. Enrollment in computer and information sciences has taken a hit, especially with a 15% drop in graduate programs. What’s driving this decline?
The decline in computer and information sciences enrollment, particularly the 15% drop at the graduate level, is striking but not entirely surprising. I think it’s largely tied to market signals. The tech industry has faced high-profile layoffs and a perceived saturation in certain roles, which might be deterring students who fear investing in a degree only to struggle for jobs. There’s also a sense that the rapid pace of change in tech means formal education can’t always keep up with industry needs, pushing students toward self-learning or bootcamps instead. It’s a shift in perception about where value lies.
Could the rise of artificial intelligence and tech layoffs be playing a role in steering students away from computer science programs? If so, how?
Definitely, the rise of artificial intelligence and recent tech layoffs are influencing student decisions. AI has introduced both fascination and fear—while it’s a cutting-edge field, it’s also automating roles that were once seen as secure in tech. Students are reading the same headlines we are about layoffs at major companies, and that uncertainty can make a degree in computer science feel riskier. I’ve heard from advisors that some students are pivoting to adjacent fields like cybersecurity or data ethics, where they see more stability, or stepping away from tech altogether until the dust settles.
Meanwhile, health and trade majors are gaining traction. What’s making these fields so attractive to students right now?
Health and trade majors are seeing growth because they offer clear, tangible career paths with strong demand. In health, aging populations and ongoing public health challenges mean jobs like nursing or medical technology are almost guaranteed. Trades, on the other hand, appeal to students who want hands-on work with quicker entry into the workforce—think mechanics or engineering technicians. These fields also tend to have lower educational costs and shorter timelines to employment, which is a huge plus for students wary of debt. It’s about practicality and security in an unpredictable economy.
Focusing on trade programs, why are students flocking to areas like engineering technologies and mechanic repair at two-year colleges, with increases of 8.3% and 10.4% respectively?
The jumps in enrollment for engineering technologies and mechanic repair at two-year colleges—8.3% and 10.4% respectively—highlight a growing preference for skilled trades. These programs are often shorter, more affordable, and lead directly to jobs that are in high demand. Infrastructure projects and a renewed focus on manufacturing in the U.S. have created a real need for technicians and mechanics, and students are responding to that. Plus, community colleges are doing a fantastic job of marketing these programs as viable alternatives to four-year degrees, emphasizing good pay and job stability without years of schooling.
We’ve also seen enrollment in undergraduate certificates grow by 6.6% and associate programs by 3.1%, compared to just 1.2% for bachelor’s degrees. Why are shorter-term options becoming more popular?
Shorter-term options like undergraduate certificates and associate degrees are gaining popularity because they align with students’ desire for quick, relevant skills. A certificate or associate degree can often be completed in one to two years, costing far less than a bachelor’s degree, which only grew by 1.2%. In today’s economy, students want to minimize debt and get into the workforce faster. These programs also tend to be more focused on specific, employable skills, which appeals to both students and employers who are looking for immediate contributors rather than long-term investments.
Community colleges reported a 4% enrollment increase this fall, outpacing public four-year schools at 1.9% and private four-year nonprofits at 0.9%. What’s behind this strong performance?
Community colleges seeing a 4% enrollment increase compared to 1.9% at public four-year schools and 0.9% at private nonprofits really underscores their unique position. Cost is a huge factor—tuition at community colleges is often a fraction of what four-year institutions charge. Accessibility also plays a role; they’re typically closer to home, offer flexible schedules, and cater to a wide range of students, from recent high school grads to adults returning to education. Their focus on vocational and associate programs, which are in demand, further boosts their appeal. They’re meeting students where they are, both financially and logistically.
Do you think cost, accessibility, or the types of programs offered are the primary reasons students are choosing community colleges over other institutions?
I’d say it’s a combination, but if I had to pinpoint a primary driver, it’s cost. Community colleges are often the most affordable option, which is critical for students and families navigating tight budgets. Accessibility is a close second—many students can live at home while attending, saving even more. The types of programs, especially vocational and short-term ones, are a strong draw too, but I think they often come into play after cost and location have already tipped the scales. In my experience working with institutions, the financial barrier is usually the first hurdle students mention when considering their options.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for enrollment trends in higher education over the next few years?
Looking forward, I expect undergraduate enrollment to continue its gradual upward trend, particularly at community colleges and in shorter-term programs, as students prioritize affordability and quick career entry. However, graduate enrollment might face ongoing challenges unless institutions can clearly demonstrate the value of advanced degrees in a shifting job market. I also anticipate further shifts in fields of study—health and trades will likely remain strong, while tech-related programs might see fluctuating interest until the industry stabilizes. The bigger question is how colleges adapt, whether through innovative program design or partnerships with employers, to keep pace with student needs and economic realities.
