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Student Success
Independent colleges and universities enable students to finish their
degrees in four years more effectively than public universities. Moreover,
students of all racial and ethnic backgrounds complete their degrees more
quickly at independent colleges than at four-year state colleges. “At-risk”
students are also more likely to graduate from private colleges than state
institutions within six years. But educational success can be measured
in ways other than graduation rates. Colleges are expected to produce
responsible citizens and future leaders, to prepare students for graduate
school and careers, and to inculcate in them heightened awareness of values
and ethics. In more specific terms, college alumni believe that the acquisition
of broad life and career skills such as critical thinking and communication,
adaptability, leadership, and teamwork are vitally important. The research
cited in this section provides ample evidence that independent colleges
are as effective, and often more effective, than public universities at
achieving these measures of success.
- Higher Graduation Rates
Students at independent colleges and universities are more
likely to graduate than students at public institutions.
- Learning Outcomes
Students attending independent colleges and universities are
more likely to report that their education consists of educationally
purposeful activities that contribute to greater intellectual skills,
practical competencies, and other desired learning outcomes.
- Preparation for Life
Independent college alumni surveyed give their undergraduate
institutions more credit than public university graduates for helping
them learn to write and speak effectively, think creatively, relate
to people of different backgrounds, develop moral principles, become
socially and politically aware, learn to appreciate the fine arts, and
develop a sense of purpose in life. Independent colleges are rated by
alumni just as highly, or more highly than public universities at helping
students become self-confident, develop teamwork and leadership skills,
think analytically, and develop the ability to learn new skills.
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