State Benefits from Independent Higher Education

STATES now vary considerably in the quality and quantity of their independent colleges and universities; thus the benefits accruing to their citizens may vary as well. Four major benefits are discussed here.

Access. The independent sector has been a partner with the federal  government and the states for many years. Although partnerships are more common in the eastern part of the nation, western states with burgeoning enrollments are warming to the notion of these partnerships. Questions of independent postsecondary institutional roles and their part in achieving state goals are important to address. Many states have learned that independent institutions provide another existing resource to increase access for its citizens.5 Moreover, a review of current master plans in ten WICHE states indicated that eight states consider access to postsecondary education as a key public policy issue. Many of the plans further noted that increasing access to postsecondary education is critical to the states' economic growth and future.

Choice and Diversity. Equally important, program offerings from existing high quality independent institutions increase the array of academic programs available. These additional programs provide more choices for the varying needs of residents. A state interested in making quality programs available and increasing educational choice should find the partnership with independent institutions worthwhile.

Efficiency. Direct or indirect investments in existing independent higher education systems are less expensive than building new public facilities. These investments might lead to reduced state costs for funding an over-crowded postsecondary system. The utilization of these existing institutions provides a quick and convenient response over a short-term or long- term arrangement. Building new campuses is an extensive and costly use of tight state resources and may not substantially address the problems of limited access of today's students.

Public Policy. Finally, utilizing the independent sector may simply be good public policy. Costs are too high for most states to create new campuses. The long-term commitments of additional faculty and staff could overextend a state's budget when market demands for certain programs may be short lived. The immediate availability and high quality of the independent sector is an important resource. Several WICHE states have already begun to explore the relationships of independent institutions with the state.