Reading—not just any kind of reading, but reading long, complex, challenging books—is quickly vanishing from the American scene.

When adding in housing, food, books and other costs, the total amount to attend Brown University, Tulane University, the University of Richmond, Williams College and other schools can easily rise to $100,000 per year for those who don’t get scholarships or financial aid.

Republicans are pushing for more control over the day-to-day work at colleges and universities. Democrats, meanwhile, broadly support higher education, praising it for its role in improving people’s lives.

A pilot study suggests college students are not simply handing their writing over to AI. Instead, many use the tools to brainstorm, revise and work through writer’s block while still shaping their own arguments and voice.

As these technologies become better at producing knowledge work, they risk hollowing out the ecosystem of learning and mentorship upon which colleges and universities are built, and on which they depend.

Rural students graduate at high rates but enroll in college less often due to limited recruitment and course access. Experts urge universities to bolster outreach and support for these communities.

The Trump administration’s plan to cut $980 million from federal work study threatens a program that helps nearly 700,000 students stay enrolled. Experts warn the reductions could limit campus jobs vital to students’ finances and success.

Colleges face financial pressure from declining enrollment and rising costs, while students increasingly prioritize career-ready, flexible degrees. Experts suggest rethinking the traditional major in favor of customizable, modular programs that better align with workforce demands.