<p>Not sure why you think all of the students going to community college is such a bad thing. The community college serves not only those who will transfer to a four year school to complete a bachelor’s degree, but also those seeking post-secondary education for jobs that require skills beyond high school but not a bachelor’s degree (e.g. skilled trades, firefighting, phlebotomy, etc.).</p>
<p>There are lots of jobs that do not require a bachelor’s degree, but most of the better ones require some sort of post-secondary education. Community college is one common place for that; other avenues may include apprenticeships / on-the-job training or self-education. But the uneducated are likely to find poor job prospects.</p>
<p>I am afraid that this ridiculous cost curve will not bend any time soon.
For good schools, there seems to be enough “rich” families in the US to support this pricing structure. But more importantly, there is an explosion of affluent class in developing nations. Do not underestimate the allure of American universities. Many good US schools are located in postcard-perfect college towns. The student bodies are cosmopolitan and welcoming. Also, US schools tend to have a lot of history (which is ironic for such a young republic). There is a huge demand.</p>
<p>I must admit somewhat shamefully that we ourselves are not helping the situation. Insteading of taking a full ride at places like Oklahoma or Alabama or some merit aid at our state flagship schools, we have chosen to let our daughter attend some small private college that she really loves. Perhaps a middle class family such as ours should be a bit wiser - but I guess we are not. :(</p>
<p>Don’t forget that selective schools still get way more applicants than they have seats. Why lower prices, especially when international students are only too willing/able to pay full price? I agree that 2nd and 3rd tier privates could be in trouble if they can’t attract internationals.</p>
<p>The dollar has strengthened recently against certain currencies. The international students affected by this change will be paying considerably more this year for tuition than a 2-3 years ago. That has to hurt some, especially if they were paying the full price.</p>
<p>Future of Education is At Hand: Online, Accredited, Affordable, Useful. Townhall finance article. Interesting read. Can’t find link, but you can search for article. Posted on their site last Wednesday Sept 4thnn</p>