January 17, 2025 • 17 mins
The Future of Higher Education: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities (2025 & Beyond)
Join us for an in-depth exploration into the future of higher education, focusing on the major trends, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead.
From AI-driven personalized videos and the integration of marketing and admissions departments to the evolving role of microcredentials and lifelong learning, this episode is packed with insights from leading sources in higher ed.
Whether you're a student, parent, or just curious about the transformation in education, this is your guide to navigating and shaping the future of learning.
Tune in to learn how universities are adapting, the importance of collaboration with industry, and how you can stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.
00:00 Introduction to the Future of Higher Education
00:41 AI in Higher Education: Personalized Videos
01:56 The Importance of Consistent Communication
02:55 Challenges in Student Retention
04:02 Competition and the Changing Landscape
05:12 Bridging the Gap: Collaboration with Industry
06:03 Continuing Education and Upskilling
09:48 Data-Driven Decision Making in Education
10:54 Personalized Learning and Support Systems
12:58 The Future of Lifelong Learning
15:56 Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Education
Learn more about the Higher Education Marketing Institute:
- Website: https://highereducationmarketinginstitute.com/
- X: https://x.com/HEMInstitute
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/higher-education-marketing-institute/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HigherEducationMarketing
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Jill (00:00):
Okay, so like everyone ready to jump into the future.
I am so fascinated by all thisstuff, like personalized videos
from universities using AI.
It seems wild, but it's alreadyhappening.
Yeah.
Jack (00:11):
And that's exactly what we're diving into today.
The future of higher education,all the trends, all the
challenges and the amazingopportunities coming up in 2025
and beyond.
Jill (00:20):
Buckle up, everyone.
Whether you're a student, aparent, or just curious about
the future of learning, thisdeep dive is for you.
Jack (00:27):
Right on.
We've got a stack of articleshere from some leading sources
in higher ed.
Jill (00:31):
Like Voltidou, Archer Education, EAB, UPCEA.
Some real heavy hitters.
Jack (00:37):
Yeah, and they're all pointing to some pretty major
shifts in how we think aboutcollege and careers.
Jill (00:41):
So let's start with that AI thing.
I mean, that's everywhere thesedays, right?
Like, AI image generators areblowing up on social media.
But universities are using AI tomake personalized videos for
prospective students.
That's next level.
Jack (00:53):
It is next level.
And it's already happening.
Viltude, one of the articles wehave here, really digs into how
schools are using this tech tostand out from the crowd.
Jill (01:01):
So it's not just like a generic welcome video.
It's like tailored to yourinterests.
Jack (01:06):
Exactly.
Imagine a virtual campus tourthat adapts based on what you
say you're interested in.
Jill (01:12):
So if I'm into science, it'll show me the labs, and if
I'm an artist, it'll highlightthe studios.
That's so cool.
Jack (01:18):
Right.
Or a message that feels tailormade for where you are in the
application process.
Jill (01:23):
So like, if I'm just starting to research schools,
it'll be different from if I'vealready applied.
Jack (01:27):
Precisely.
It's all about making thatpersonal connection, making you
feel like you matter.
Jill (01:33):
Like you're more than just an application number.
Jack (01:35):
Exactly.
But, you know, there's also thiswhole ethical debate around it.
Like, is it authentic?
Is the AI truly representing theschool or just generating what
it thinks you want to see?
That's something the WeeklyHigher Ed Trends article brought
up, and it's a valid concern.
Jill (01:50):
Yeah, you don't want it to feel too slick or robotic,
right?
The human touch still matters alot.
Jack (01:54):
Oh, absolutely.
Jill (01:55):
Yeah.
Jack (01:56):
And speaking of getting things right, Another trend
we're seeing is this push foradmissions and marketing
departments to be on the samepage.
Jill (02:03):
Oh my god, yes.
I remember when I was applyingto colleges, I got this super
modern email from the marketingteam.
Yeah.
You know, all flashy graphicsand cool language.
Jack (02:12):
Right.
Jill (02:13):
But then the actual application materials felt like
they were from a differentcentury.
Totally killed the vibe.
Jack (02:18):
I can imagine the power of collaboration.
That's what the Archer Educationarticle calls it.
And they're spot on.
The schools that are reallynailing recruitment Understand
that the message needs to beconsistent and trustworthy from
your very first interaction allthe way through enrolling.
Jill (02:34):
Right.
It's like if a company had anamazing sales pitch, but then
their customer service wasterrible, you'd be like, wait,
what happened?
Jack (02:40):
Exactly.
And it erodes trust.
If a university can't even gettheir internal communication
straight, how can you trust themto provide a coherent
educational experience?
That makes you think.
Jill (02:50):
For sure.
So, okay, you've got studentsexcited, they're applying, but
then the real challenge begins.
How do colleges keep thosestudents engaged and on track to
actually graduate?
Retention is a huge issue, andit's not getting any easier.
Jack (03:03):
It's a massive issue, and it's only getting more complex.
The EAB article highlights threemajor challenges that
universities are facing when itcomes to retention.
Jill (03:12):
Okay, hit me.
Jack (03:14):
First, the student body itself is changing.
We're seeing more firstgeneration students, more
minority students, and moreadult learners, all with their
own unique needs and challenges.
Jill (03:24):
Right.
The traditional support systemsmight not cut it anymore.
Jack (03:27):
Exactly.
These students might need extrahelp with things like financial
aid, academic advising, or evenjust navigating the culture of
higher education.
Jill (03:35):
It's like starting a new job in a completely different
country.
You need someone to show you theropes.
Jack (03:40):
Exactly.
So some universities arecreating more personalized
support services, likementorship programs or peer to
peer support groups.
Others are offering flexiblescheduling options and online
courses to cater to the needs ofworking adults.
Jill (03:53):
So it's about recognizing that one size doesn't fit all
anymore, and providing moretailored support?
Jack (03:58):
Precisely.
But it's not just about internalchallenges, right?
Universities are also facingmore competition than ever
before.
Jill (04:05):
Oh yeah, for sure.
It's not just other universitiesvying for students anymore.
Jack (04:08):
Right.
That's the second challenge EABbrings up.
We've got boot camps.
Online programs, all sorts ofalternative education providers,
promising faster, cheaper, andmore career focused options.
Jill (04:20):
So is the traditional four year degree becoming obsolete?
Is that what we're saying?
Jack (04:24):
That's the million dollar question, isn't it?
Ugh.
It really depends on yourfields, your aspirations, your
learning style.
Yeah.
Some people thrive in thatstructured academic environment.
While others prefer a more handson, self directed approach.
Jill (04:38):
And then there's technology, which is both a
blessing and a curse.
It can personalize learning,make it more accessible, and
prepare students for a digitalworkforce.
But there's also that fear thatautomation will devalue certain
degrees, leaving graduatesunprepared for the job market.
That's scary.
Jack (04:54):
It is.
That's the third challenge EABhighlights.
It's like, universities aretrying to hit a moving target.
They need to equip students forjobs that might not even exist
yet, while still upholding thecore values of a liberal arts
education.
Jill (05:06):
It's a tough balancing act.
So how are they doing it?
Are there any schools out thereactually cracking the code?
Jack (05:12):
Some are, and the UPC EA article, Bridging the Gap,
offers some really interestinginsights.
It emphasizes the power ofcollaboration.
Not just between departmentswithin a university, but between
universities and the businessworld itself.
Jill (05:27):
Okay, so, like, how does that work in practice?
How are they actually bridgingthat gap?
Jack (05:31):
Think internships, guest lectures from industry
professionals, even jointresearch projects where students
get hands on experience in realworld settings.
Jill (05:40):
So it's about blurring the lines between the classroom and
the workplace, making surestudents are getting practical
skills alongside the theoreticalknowledge.
Jack (05:47):
Exactly.
And it benefits everyone.
Students gain real worldexperience, faculty stay current
with industry trends, andcompanies get early access to
top talent.
It's a win win win.
Jill (05:58):
I love that.
Okay, so we've talked a lotabout undergrads, but what about
folks who are already in theworkforce?
People looking to upskill orchange careers later in life?
Jack (06:06):
That's a crucial piece of the puzzle, and the UPCEA Growth
Playbook article really divesinto this.
Continuing education is booming,but it needs to evolve to stay
relevant in this rapidlychanging world.
Jill (06:20):
So what are the key takeaways for people looking to
Upskill or change careers.
What do they need to know?
Jack (06:26):
The growth playbook highlights three key areas,
embracing online learning,focusing on micro credentials
and using data to understandwhat skills are in high demand.
Jill (06:36):
Break this down for me.
Jack (06:36):
So, online learning is obviously huge.
It offers flexibility andaccessibility.
Jill (06:41):
Makes sense.
Jack (06:41):
Micro credentials are those specialized certificates
that allow you to quickly gainin demand skills without
committing to a full degreeprogram.
Jill (06:48):
Oh, those are interesting.
Like little badges of expertiseyou can collect.
Jack (06:51):
Exactly.
And then data driven insightsare all about understanding what
skills employers are actuallylooking for so you can tailor
your education accordingly.
Jill (07:00):
So it's about being proactive, taking ownership of
your own professionaldevelopment.
Jack (07:04):
Exactly.
It's not about passively waitingfor opportunities to come your
way.
It's about actively seeking outthe knowledge and skills you
need to thrive.
Jill (07:13):
I love that.
But even with all theseinnovations, how can anyone be
sure that any program, whetherit's a traditional degree or a
stack of micro credentials,We'll truly prepare them for a
future that's constantlyevolving.
That's a big question.
Jack (07:27):
It's a huge question, and it's one we'll explore further
in the next part of our deepdive.
Because honestly, there's nosingle answer, no crystal ball
that tells us exactly what thefuture holds for higher
education.
Jill (07:39):
Right.
It's more about understandingthe forces at play and making
informed choices based on yourown unique goals and
circumstances.
Jack (07:45):
Exactly.
And that's where you, thelistener, come in.
Because ultimately, the futureof higher education isn't
something that's happening toyou.
It's something you're activelyshaping through the choices you
make.
Jill (07:54):
So we've got AI personalized videos, a need for
collaboration betweendepartments and with industry,
and this shift towards lifelonglearning and micro credentials.
It's a lot to process.
Jack (08:05):
It is.
But it's also incrediblyexciting.
Higher education is evolving atan unprecedented pace, and it's
creating some amazingopportunities for students and
professionals alike.
Jill (08:16):
Well, stay tuned, everyone, because in the next
part of our deep dive, we'regoing to explore those
opportunities in even moredetail.
We'll talk about how to navigatethis new landscape, how to make
informed choices about youreducation, and how to future
proof your career in a worldthat's constantly changing.
Jack (08:32):
Can't wait.
Jill (08:32):
So we're talking about a future where education is more
personalized and flexible,driven by technology, and a need
for constant adaptation.
But is this really attainablefor everyone?
Jack (08:43):
That's a great question, and it ties right back into that
whole debate about thetraditional four year degree
and, you know, its evolvingvalue.
Jill (08:51):
Right.
We touched on this earlier.
Is a bachelor's degree becomingmore about personal growth and
exploration while you hone thosespecialized skills through
things like continuing educationand microcredentials?
Jack (09:01):
That's a question that a lot of experts are grappling
with right now.
In fact, the weekly Higher EdTrends article even flagged this
as like a potentiallycontroversial idea.
You know, is a bachelor's degreelosing its relevance in certain
fields?
Jill (09:13):
It's like that age old debate, you know, liberal arts
versus vocational training, butamped up for the digital age.
Jack (09:20):
Yeah.
Jill (09:21):
How do you even begin to figure that out?
Jack (09:23):
It's definitely complex, and there's no one size fits all
answer.
It really depends on the field,your career goals, your personal
learning style.
Some people thrive in that morestructured academic setting,
while others really prefer ahands on, you know, self
directed approach.
Jill (09:38):
So much to consider.
It's like trying to choose apath in one of those choose your
own adventure books, but thereare a million different endings.
How can listeners figure outwhat's right for them?
Jack (09:48):
One thing that really stood out to me in the research
was this need for more datadriven decision making in higher
education.
The UPCEA growth playbook reallyhammers this point home.
Jill (09:58):
You mean using data to figure out like what skills are
actually in high demand souniversities can design programs
that actually prepare studentsfor the workforce?
Jack (10:06):
Exactly.
And it's not just foruniversities.
Individuals can leverage datatoo.
Imagine a future where you havethis dashboard that shows you
the hottest skills in yourfield, the average salaries for
those roles, and the mosteffective educational pathways
to get there.
Jill (10:20):
Wow, that would be incredible.
It's like having a personalizedcareer GPS guiding you towards
your goals.
Jack (10:25):
That's the power of data driven insights.
It's about empoweringinstitutions and individuals to
make informed choices.
Uh huh.
So on the institution side, ithelps them design programs that
meet actual market needs ratherthan relying on, you know,
outdated assumptions.
Jill (10:41):
And on the individual side, it takes some of the
guesswork out of careerplanning.
You can invest your time andmoney in education that has a
clear return on investment.
But I imagine data alone isn'tenough.
There's still that humanelement, right?
Jack (10:53):
You're absolutely right.
Data is a powerful tool, but itneeds to be paired with another
crucial piece of the puzzle, andthat's personalization.
Jill (10:59):
We talked about AI personalizing marketing
materials, but you're suggestingthis goes even deeper.
Jack (11:04):
Much deeper.
Think about it.
In the past, education waslargely a one size fits all
model.
You go to class, you listen tolectures, you take exams, and
hope for the best.
But the future of learning ismuch more individualized.
It recognizes that everyonelearns differently.
Jill (11:21):
So instead of everyone crammed into the same lecture
hall, we're talking aboutlearning experiences tailored to
your specific needs, interests,and goals.
Jack (11:28):
Exactly.
And technology plays a huge rolehere.
Online learning platforms cantrack your progress.
Identify your strengths andweaknesses, and even adjust the
curriculum in real time tooptimize your learning
experience.
Jill (11:40):
It's like having a personal tutor built into the
system, constantly adapting toyour individual needs.
Jack (11:45):
That's a great analogy.
And this personalized approachis crucial for meeting the needs
of that diverse student body wetalked about earlier.
First generation students,minority students, adult
learners, everyone comes to thetable with a unique set of
experiences and challenges.
Jill (11:59):
So instead of trying to force everyone into the same
mold, we're recognizing thatdifferent people learn best in
different ways and creatingcustomized pathways to success.
Jack (12:06):
I like that.
It's about empoweringindividuals to learn in a way
that works best for them.
But there's another element thatwe can't overlook here, and
that's support systems.
Jill (12:16):
Right.
It's not enough to just throwtechnology at the problem and
expect everyone to figure it outon their own.
Students need guidance,mentorship, and a sense of
community, especially those whoare navigating higher education
for the first time.
Jack (12:29):
Absolutely.
And this is where universitieshave a real opportunity to
shine.
They can create learningcommunities, both online and
offline, where students canconnect with each other, get
support from advisors andmentors, and build a sense of
belonging.
Jill (12:42):
It's like the best aspects of the traditional college
experience, you know, that senseof community and camaraderie but
reimagined for the 21st century.
You're still getting thatpersonal connection and
guidance, but it's delivered ina way that fits your modern
lifestyle.
Jack (12:57):
Exactly.
And this support shouldn't stopat graduation.
Universities can become lifelonglearning hubs, offering alumni
ongoing access to professionaldevelopment resources,
networking opportunities, evencareer counseling.
Jill (13:10):
So it's not just about getting that degree, it's about
becoming part of a communitythat supports your growth and
success throughout your career.
I really like that vision.
Jack (13:17):
It's a vision where higher education is more personalized,
more flexible, and more relevantto the needs of both individuals
and the workforce.
It's exciting.
Jill (13:27):
It is exciting, but it also requires a pretty big shift
in mindset.
We need to move away from thattraditional view of college as
like a four year pit stop on theway to a career and embrace it
as a lifelong journey oflearning and growth.
Jack (13:41):
And that's a journey that requires constant adaptation,
experimentation, and awillingness to challenge the
status quo.
It's not always easy.
But it's incredibly rewarding.
Jill (13:51):
So the big question is, are universities up to the
challenge?
Can they evolve fast enough tokeep pace with the changing
needs of students and thedemands of a rapidly evolving
workforce?
That is the question, isn't it?
Can higher ed really adapt andkeep up with all these changes?
Jack (14:05):
Yeah, it's a tough one.
There's no magic formula, nocrystal ball that tells us
what's next.
But we can definitely look atthe trends and the challenges
and see where things are headed.
Jill (14:13):
So, based on what we've talked about today, what are
some of the key things ourlisteners should be thinking
about?
Jack (14:18):
Well, one of the biggest shifts is this move away from
that one size fits all model ofeducation.
Jill (14:24):
Mm.
Jack (14:24):
You know, everyone in the same classroom learning the same
things.
Jill (14:27):
Right, like that factory model of education.
Yeah,
Jack (14:29):
exactly.
And we're moving towards a muchmore personalized approach.
Jill (14:33):
Mm.
Jack (14:33):
Technology is a big driver here with things like customized
learning pathways, data driveninsights, and more flexible ways
to learn.
Jill (14:41):
And it's not just about the technology itself, right?
It's about a change in mindset,too.
Lifelong learning is becomingthe new normal, and universities
need to embrace that by offeringmore continuing education
options, micro credentials,those things we talked about,
and support systems that don'tjust disappear after graduation.
Jack (14:58):
Absolutely.
Jill (14:59):
Yeah.
Jack (14:59):
It's about recognizing that education isn't just a one
time event.
Yeah.
You know, it's a continuousjourney of growth and
adaptation.
Jill (15:06):
Right.
Like you're never really donelearning.
Jack (15:08):
Exactly.
Another key theme that keepspopping up is the importance of
collaboration.
We're seeing more partnershipsbetween universities and
businesses, between differentdepartments within institutions,
and even between studentsthemselves through online
learning communities.
Jill (15:24):
Yeah, those collaborations are so important for making sure
what's being taught in theclassroom actually connects with
what's happening in the realworld.
It's about preparing graduatesfor the jobs of today and
tomorrow.
Jack (15:36):
Exactly.
And those partnerships can alsohelp universities deal with the
challenges they're facing.
You know, like competition fromthose alternative education
providers and the pressure tokeep up with all the new
technology.
Jill (15:48):
It's like they can share resources and learn from each
other.
Jack (15:50):
Right, exactly.
By working together, they cancreate a much more dynamic and
responsive educationalecosystem.
Jill (15:56):
It sounds like higher education is at a crossroads.
You know, there's all thisincredible potential, but also
some serious obstacles toovercome.
It's true, but I'm optimistic.
I think we're at the beginningof a truly transformative period
in education.
And ultimately, the future isn'tsomething that's just happening
to us.
It's something we're allcreating through the choices we
make.
Jack (16:16):
I like that.
So it's not about predicting thefuture, it's about shaping it.
Jill (16:19):
Exactly.
And that brings us back to you,the listener.
We've given you a glimpse intothe trends shaping higher
education in 2025 and beyond.
Now it's your turn.
What does the future of youreducation look like?
Jack (16:31):
What a great question.
So, as we wrap up this deepdive, here's something for
everyone to think about.
If you could design your ideallearning experience, What would
it look like?
Would it be on a traditionalcollege campus?
An online program?
Maybe a blend of both?
What skills would you focus on?
Who would you want as yourmentors?
Jill (16:50):
These are important questions to consider.
There's no right or wronganswer.
It's about finding what worksbest for you, your goals, your
learning style.
Jack (16:58):
And that's what's so exciting about this moment.
There are so many options, somany possibilities.
The key is to be proactive.
Do your research and never stoplearning.
Well said.
The future of education is fullof potential, and it's up to
each of us to seize theopportunities and create the
learning experiences we want andneed.
Jill (17:17):
I love that.
So on that note, we've reachedthe end of our deep dive into
the future of higher education.
Thanks for joining us on thisjourney.
We hope you found it insightfuland inspiring.
Jack (17:27):
Until next time, keep learning, keep exploring, and
keep pushing the boundaries ofwhat's possible.
Jill (17:31):
That's a wrap on the deep dive.
We'll catch you in the nextepisode.
Okay, so like everyone ready to jump into the future.
I am so fascinated by all thisstuff, like personalized videos
from universities using AI.
It seems wild, but it's alreadyhappening.
Yeah.
Jack (00:11):
And that's exactly what we're diving into today.
The future of higher education,all the trends, all the
challenges and the amazingopportunities coming up in 2025
and beyond.
Jill (00:20):
Buckle up, everyone.
Whether you're a student, aparent, or just curious about
the future of learning, thisdeep dive is for you.
Jack (00:27):
Right on.
We've got a stack of articleshere from some leading sources
in higher ed.
Jill (00:31):
Like Voltidou, Archer Education, EAB, UPCEA.
Some real heavy hitters.
Jack (00:37):
Yeah, and they're all pointing to some pretty major
shifts in how we think aboutcollege and careers.
Jill (00:41):
So let's start with that AI thing.
I mean, that's everywhere thesedays, right?
Like, AI image generators areblowing up on social media.
But universities are using AI tomake personalized videos for
prospective students.
That's next level.
Jack (00:53):
It is next level.
And it's already happening.
Viltude, one of the articles wehave here, really digs into how
schools are using this tech tostand out from the crowd.
Jill (01:01):
So it's not just like a generic welcome video.
It's like tailored to yourinterests.
Jack (01:06):
Exactly.
Imagine a virtual campus tourthat adapts based on what you
say you're interested in.
Jill (01:12):
So if I'm into science, it'll show me the labs, and if
I'm an artist, it'll highlightthe studios.
That's so cool.
Jack (01:18):
Right.
Or a message that feels tailormade for where you are in the
application process.
Jill (01:23):
So like, if I'm just starting to research schools,
it'll be different from if I'vealready applied.
Jack (01:27):
Precisely.
It's all about making thatpersonal connection, making you
feel like you matter.
Jill (01:33):
Like you're more than just an application number.
Jack (01:35):
Exactly.
But, you know, there's also thiswhole ethical debate around it.
Like, is it authentic?
Is the AI truly representing theschool or just generating what
it thinks you want to see?
That's something the WeeklyHigher Ed Trends article brought
up, and it's a valid concern.
Jill (01:50):
Yeah, you don't want it to feel too slick or robotic,
right?
The human touch still matters alot.
Jack (01:54):
Oh, absolutely.
Jill (01:55):
Yeah.
Jack (01:56):
And speaking of getting things right, Another trend
we're seeing is this push foradmissions and marketing
departments to be on the samepage.
Jill (02:03):
Oh my god, yes.
I remember when I was applyingto colleges, I got this super
modern email from the marketingteam.
Yeah.
You know, all flashy graphicsand cool language.
Jack (02:12):
Right.
Jill (02:13):
But then the actual application materials felt like
they were from a differentcentury.
Totally killed the vibe.
Jack (02:18):
I can imagine the power of collaboration.
That's what the Archer Educationarticle calls it.
And they're spot on.
The schools that are reallynailing recruitment Understand
that the message needs to beconsistent and trustworthy from
your very first interaction allthe way through enrolling.
Jill (02:34):
Right.
It's like if a company had anamazing sales pitch, but then
their customer service wasterrible, you'd be like, wait,
what happened?
Jack (02:40):
Exactly.
And it erodes trust.
If a university can't even gettheir internal communication
straight, how can you trust themto provide a coherent
educational experience?
That makes you think.
Jill (02:50):
For sure.
So, okay, you've got studentsexcited, they're applying, but
then the real challenge begins.
How do colleges keep thosestudents engaged and on track to
actually graduate?
Retention is a huge issue, andit's not getting any easier.
Jack (03:03):
It's a massive issue, and it's only getting more complex.
The EAB article highlights threemajor challenges that
universities are facing when itcomes to retention.
Jill (03:12):
Okay, hit me.
Jack (03:14):
First, the student body itself is changing.
We're seeing more firstgeneration students, more
minority students, and moreadult learners, all with their
own unique needs and challenges.
Jill (03:24):
Right.
The traditional support systemsmight not cut it anymore.
Jack (03:27):
Exactly.
These students might need extrahelp with things like financial
aid, academic advising, or evenjust navigating the culture of
higher education.
Jill (03:35):
It's like starting a new job in a completely different
country.
You need someone to show you theropes.
Jack (03:40):
Exactly.
So some universities arecreating more personalized
support services, likementorship programs or peer to
peer support groups.
Others are offering flexiblescheduling options and online
courses to cater to the needs ofworking adults.
Jill (03:53):
So it's about recognizing that one size doesn't fit all
anymore, and providing moretailored support?
Jack (03:58):
Precisely.
But it's not just about internalchallenges, right?
Universities are also facingmore competition than ever
before.
Jill (04:05):
Oh yeah, for sure.
It's not just other universitiesvying for students anymore.
Jack (04:08):
Right.
That's the second challenge EABbrings up.
We've got boot camps.
Online programs, all sorts ofalternative education providers,
promising faster, cheaper, andmore career focused options.
Jill (04:20):
So is the traditional four year degree becoming obsolete?
Is that what we're saying?
Jack (04:24):
That's the million dollar question, isn't it?
Ugh.
It really depends on yourfields, your aspirations, your
learning style.
Yeah.
Some people thrive in thatstructured academic environment.
While others prefer a more handson, self directed approach.
Jill (04:38):
And then there's technology, which is both a
blessing and a curse.
It can personalize learning,make it more accessible, and
prepare students for a digitalworkforce.
But there's also that fear thatautomation will devalue certain
degrees, leaving graduatesunprepared for the job market.
That's scary.
Jack (04:54):
It is.
That's the third challenge EABhighlights.
It's like, universities aretrying to hit a moving target.
They need to equip students forjobs that might not even exist
yet, while still upholding thecore values of a liberal arts
education.
Jill (05:06):
It's a tough balancing act.
So how are they doing it?
Are there any schools out thereactually cracking the code?
Jack (05:12):
Some are, and the UPC EA article, Bridging the Gap,
offers some really interestinginsights.
It emphasizes the power ofcollaboration.
Not just between departmentswithin a university, but between
universities and the businessworld itself.
Jill (05:27):
Okay, so, like, how does that work in practice?
How are they actually bridgingthat gap?
Jack (05:31):
Think internships, guest lectures from industry
professionals, even jointresearch projects where students
get hands on experience in realworld settings.
Jill (05:40):
So it's about blurring the lines between the classroom and
the workplace, making surestudents are getting practical
skills alongside the theoreticalknowledge.
Jack (05:47):
Exactly.
And it benefits everyone.
Students gain real worldexperience, faculty stay current
with industry trends, andcompanies get early access to
top talent.
It's a win win win.
Jill (05:58):
I love that.
Okay, so we've talked a lotabout undergrads, but what about
folks who are already in theworkforce?
People looking to upskill orchange careers later in life?
Jack (06:06):
That's a crucial piece of the puzzle, and the UPCEA Growth
Playbook article really divesinto this.
Continuing education is booming,but it needs to evolve to stay
relevant in this rapidlychanging world.
Jill (06:20):
So what are the key takeaways for people looking to
Upskill or change careers.
What do they need to know?
Jack (06:26):
The growth playbook highlights three key areas,
embracing online learning,focusing on micro credentials
and using data to understandwhat skills are in high demand.
Jill (06:36):
Break this down for me.
Jack (06:36):
So, online learning is obviously huge.
It offers flexibility andaccessibility.
Jill (06:41):
Makes sense.
Jack (06:41):
Micro credentials are those specialized certificates
that allow you to quickly gainin demand skills without
committing to a full degreeprogram.
Jill (06:48):
Oh, those are interesting.
Like little badges of expertiseyou can collect.
Jack (06:51):
Exactly.
And then data driven insightsare all about understanding what
skills employers are actuallylooking for so you can tailor
your education accordingly.
Jill (07:00):
So it's about being proactive, taking ownership of
your own professionaldevelopment.
Jack (07:04):
Exactly.
It's not about passively waitingfor opportunities to come your
way.
It's about actively seeking outthe knowledge and skills you
need to thrive.
Jill (07:13):
I love that.
But even with all theseinnovations, how can anyone be
sure that any program, whetherit's a traditional degree or a
stack of micro credentials,We'll truly prepare them for a
future that's constantlyevolving.
That's a big question.
Jack (07:27):
It's a huge question, and it's one we'll explore further
in the next part of our deepdive.
Because honestly, there's nosingle answer, no crystal ball
that tells us exactly what thefuture holds for higher
education.
Jill (07:39):
Right.
It's more about understandingthe forces at play and making
informed choices based on yourown unique goals and
circumstances.
Jack (07:45):
Exactly.
And that's where you, thelistener, come in.
Because ultimately, the futureof higher education isn't
something that's happening toyou.
It's something you're activelyshaping through the choices you
make.
Jill (07:54):
So we've got AI personalized videos, a need for
collaboration betweendepartments and with industry,
and this shift towards lifelonglearning and micro credentials.
It's a lot to process.
Jack (08:05):
It is.
But it's also incrediblyexciting.
Higher education is evolving atan unprecedented pace, and it's
creating some amazingopportunities for students and
professionals alike.
Jill (08:16):
Well, stay tuned, everyone, because in the next
part of our deep dive, we'regoing to explore those
opportunities in even moredetail.
We'll talk about how to navigatethis new landscape, how to make
informed choices about youreducation, and how to future
proof your career in a worldthat's constantly changing.
Jack (08:32):
Can't wait.
Jill (08:32):
So we're talking about a future where education is more
personalized and flexible,driven by technology, and a need
for constant adaptation.
But is this really attainablefor everyone?
Jack (08:43):
That's a great question, and it ties right back into that
whole debate about thetraditional four year degree
and, you know, its evolvingvalue.
Jill (08:51):
Right.
We touched on this earlier.
Is a bachelor's degree becomingmore about personal growth and
exploration while you hone thosespecialized skills through
things like continuing educationand microcredentials?
Jack (09:01):
That's a question that a lot of experts are grappling
with right now.
In fact, the weekly Higher EdTrends article even flagged this
as like a potentiallycontroversial idea.
You know, is a bachelor's degreelosing its relevance in certain
fields?
Jill (09:13):
It's like that age old debate, you know, liberal arts
versus vocational training, butamped up for the digital age.
Jack (09:20):
Yeah.
Jill (09:21):
How do you even begin to figure that out?
Jack (09:23):
It's definitely complex, and there's no one size fits all
answer.
It really depends on the field,your career goals, your personal
learning style.
Some people thrive in that morestructured academic setting,
while others really prefer ahands on, you know, self
directed approach.
Jill (09:38):
So much to consider.
It's like trying to choose apath in one of those choose your
own adventure books, but thereare a million different endings.
How can listeners figure outwhat's right for them?
Jack (09:48):
One thing that really stood out to me in the research
was this need for more datadriven decision making in higher
education.
The UPCEA growth playbook reallyhammers this point home.
Jill (09:58):
You mean using data to figure out like what skills are
actually in high demand souniversities can design programs
that actually prepare studentsfor the workforce?
Jack (10:06):
Exactly.
And it's not just foruniversities.
Individuals can leverage datatoo.
Imagine a future where you havethis dashboard that shows you
the hottest skills in yourfield, the average salaries for
those roles, and the mosteffective educational pathways
to get there.
Jill (10:20):
Wow, that would be incredible.
It's like having a personalizedcareer GPS guiding you towards
your goals.
Jack (10:25):
That's the power of data driven insights.
It's about empoweringinstitutions and individuals to
make informed choices.
Uh huh.
So on the institution side, ithelps them design programs that
meet actual market needs ratherthan relying on, you know,
outdated assumptions.
Jill (10:41):
And on the individual side, it takes some of the
guesswork out of careerplanning.
You can invest your time andmoney in education that has a
clear return on investment.
But I imagine data alone isn'tenough.
There's still that humanelement, right?
Jack (10:53):
You're absolutely right.
Data is a powerful tool, but itneeds to be paired with another
crucial piece of the puzzle, andthat's personalization.
Jill (10:59):
We talked about AI personalizing marketing
materials, but you're suggestingthis goes even deeper.
Jack (11:04):
Much deeper.
Think about it.
In the past, education waslargely a one size fits all
model.
You go to class, you listen tolectures, you take exams, and
hope for the best.
But the future of learning ismuch more individualized.
It recognizes that everyonelearns differently.
Jill (11:21):
So instead of everyone crammed into the same lecture
hall, we're talking aboutlearning experiences tailored to
your specific needs, interests,and goals.
Jack (11:28):
Exactly.
And technology plays a huge rolehere.
Online learning platforms cantrack your progress.
Identify your strengths andweaknesses, and even adjust the
curriculum in real time tooptimize your learning
experience.
Jill (11:40):
It's like having a personal tutor built into the
system, constantly adapting toyour individual needs.
Jack (11:45):
That's a great analogy.
And this personalized approachis crucial for meeting the needs
of that diverse student body wetalked about earlier.
First generation students,minority students, adult
learners, everyone comes to thetable with a unique set of
experiences and challenges.
Jill (11:59):
So instead of trying to force everyone into the same
mold, we're recognizing thatdifferent people learn best in
different ways and creatingcustomized pathways to success.
Jack (12:06):
I like that.
It's about empoweringindividuals to learn in a way
that works best for them.
But there's another element thatwe can't overlook here, and
that's support systems.
Jill (12:16):
Right.
It's not enough to just throwtechnology at the problem and
expect everyone to figure it outon their own.
Students need guidance,mentorship, and a sense of
community, especially those whoare navigating higher education
for the first time.
Jack (12:29):
Absolutely.
And this is where universitieshave a real opportunity to
shine.
They can create learningcommunities, both online and
offline, where students canconnect with each other, get
support from advisors andmentors, and build a sense of
belonging.
Jill (12:42):
It's like the best aspects of the traditional college
experience, you know, that senseof community and camaraderie but
reimagined for the 21st century.
You're still getting thatpersonal connection and
guidance, but it's delivered ina way that fits your modern
lifestyle.
Jack (12:57):
Exactly.
And this support shouldn't stopat graduation.
Universities can become lifelonglearning hubs, offering alumni
ongoing access to professionaldevelopment resources,
networking opportunities, evencareer counseling.
Jill (13:10):
So it's not just about getting that degree, it's about
becoming part of a communitythat supports your growth and
success throughout your career.
I really like that vision.
Jack (13:17):
It's a vision where higher education is more personalized,
more flexible, and more relevantto the needs of both individuals
and the workforce.
It's exciting.
Jill (13:27):
It is exciting, but it also requires a pretty big shift
in mindset.
We need to move away from thattraditional view of college as
like a four year pit stop on theway to a career and embrace it
as a lifelong journey oflearning and growth.
Jack (13:41):
And that's a journey that requires constant adaptation,
experimentation, and awillingness to challenge the
status quo.
It's not always easy.
But it's incredibly rewarding.
Jill (13:51):
So the big question is, are universities up to the
challenge?
Can they evolve fast enough tokeep pace with the changing
needs of students and thedemands of a rapidly evolving
workforce?
That is the question, isn't it?
Can higher ed really adapt andkeep up with all these changes?
Jack (14:05):
Yeah, it's a tough one.
There's no magic formula, nocrystal ball that tells us
what's next.
But we can definitely look atthe trends and the challenges
and see where things are headed.
Jill (14:13):
So, based on what we've talked about today, what are
some of the key things ourlisteners should be thinking
about?
Jack (14:18):
Well, one of the biggest shifts is this move away from
that one size fits all model ofeducation.
Jill (14:24):
Mm.
Jack (14:24):
You know, everyone in the same classroom learning the same
things.
Jill (14:27):
Right, like that factory model of education.
Yeah,
Jack (14:29):
exactly.
And we're moving towards a muchmore personalized approach.
Jill (14:33):
Mm.
Jack (14:33):
Technology is a big driver here with things like customized
learning pathways, data driveninsights, and more flexible ways
to learn.
Jill (14:41):
And it's not just about the technology itself, right?
It's about a change in mindset,too.
Lifelong learning is becomingthe new normal, and universities
need to embrace that by offeringmore continuing education
options, micro credentials,those things we talked about,
and support systems that don'tjust disappear after graduation.
Jack (14:58):
Absolutely.
Jill (14:59):
Yeah.
Jack (14:59):
It's about recognizing that education isn't just a one
time event.
Yeah.
You know, it's a continuousjourney of growth and
adaptation.
Jill (15:06):
Right.
Like you're never really donelearning.
Jack (15:08):
Exactly.
Another key theme that keepspopping up is the importance of
collaboration.
We're seeing more partnershipsbetween universities and
businesses, between differentdepartments within institutions,
and even between studentsthemselves through online
learning communities.
Jill (15:24):
Yeah, those collaborations are so important for making sure
what's being taught in theclassroom actually connects with
what's happening in the realworld.
It's about preparing graduatesfor the jobs of today and
tomorrow.
Jack (15:36):
Exactly.
And those partnerships can alsohelp universities deal with the
challenges they're facing.
You know, like competition fromthose alternative education
providers and the pressure tokeep up with all the new
technology.
Jill (15:48):
It's like they can share resources and learn from each
other.
Jack (15:50):
Right, exactly.
By working together, they cancreate a much more dynamic and
responsive educationalecosystem.
Jill (15:56):
It sounds like higher education is at a crossroads.
You know, there's all thisincredible potential, but also
some serious obstacles toovercome.
It's true, but I'm optimistic.
I think we're at the beginningof a truly transformative period
in education.
And ultimately, the future isn'tsomething that's just happening
to us.
It's something we're allcreating through the choices we
make.
Jack (16:16):
I like that.
So it's not about predicting thefuture, it's about shaping it.
Jill (16:19):
Exactly.
And that brings us back to you,the listener.
We've given you a glimpse intothe trends shaping higher
education in 2025 and beyond.
Now it's your turn.
What does the future of youreducation look like?
Jack (16:31):
What a great question.
So, as we wrap up this deepdive, here's something for
everyone to think about.
If you could design your ideallearning experience, What would
it look like?
Would it be on a traditionalcollege campus?
An online program?
Maybe a blend of both?
What skills would you focus on?
Who would you want as yourmentors?
Jill (16:50):
These are important questions to consider.
There's no right or wronganswer.
It's about finding what worksbest for you, your goals, your
learning style.
Jack (16:58):
And that's what's so exciting about this moment.
There are so many options, somany possibilities.
The key is to be proactive.
Do your research and never stoplearning.
Well said.
The future of education is fullof potential, and it's up to
each of us to seize theopportunities and create the
learning experiences we want andneed.
Jill (17:17):
I love that.
So on that note, we've reachedthe end of our deep dive into
the future of higher education.
Thanks for joining us on thisjourney.
We hope you found it insightfuland inspiring.
Jack (17:27):
Until next time, keep learning, keep exploring, and
keep pushing the boundaries ofwhat's possible.
Jill (17:31):
That's a wrap on the deep dive.
We'll catch you in the nextepisode.
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