Class dismissed: The economics of U.S. higher education

Class dismissed: The economics of U.S. higher education

June 3, 2026 · 37 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the economic challenges facing U.S. higher education, particularly small private colleges, and explores the implications for students and communities.

America’s small private colleges are facing declining enrollment, rising debt, and mounting closures. Is higher education in crisis or simply adapting to a new market environment? On this episode of Reuters Econ World, Jon Marcus of the Hechinger Report joins host Carmel Crimmins to unpack the economic forces reshaping universities, from tuition models to demographic shifts, and explore what it all means for students, communities, and the future of learning in America. Sign up for the ⁠Reuters Econ World ⁠⁠⁠newsletter⁠⁠⁠ Catch Reuters Morning Bid ⁠here⁠ For information on our privacy and data protection practices visit the Thomson Reuters Privacy Statement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Further listening American capitalism Prices Live podcast: The affordability gap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Host: Carmel Crimmins

Guest: Jon Marcus

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Organizations: Hechinger Report, Reuters, Thomson Reuters

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