Understanding institutional diversity in American higher education

Citation:

Michael S. Harris. 2013. Understanding institutional diversity in American higher education. Hoboken, N.J. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Abstract:

Institutional diversity serves as one of the fundamental hallmarks of American higher education. After a long history of support for many institutional types, the past 40 years have seen a decline in institutional variety. Through a discussion of history, theoretical contexts, and causes of homogenization, this monograph examines how higher education policymakers and leaders can strengthen institutional mission and preserve the benefits of institutional diversity. Higher education needs to serve a variety of functions for students, from liberal arts education to vocational training pr