Today’s college search requires a new kind of due diligence
Preview:
College search has changed significantly — prospective students and families are now navigating a landscape where institutional closures, mergers, accreditation concerns, and dramatic shifts in program offerings make choosing a college a far more complex financial and academic risk assessment than it once was. Traditional decision factors like campus culture, rankings, and reputation are no longer sufficient without deeper investigation into an institution's financial health, enrollment trends, and long-term viability. A new kind of due diligence — one that treats college selection more like a major financial investment — is increasingly necessary to protect students from enrolling at institutions that may not be able to deliver on their promises.
Originally published: June 26, 2026
Author: James Birge
Position: President
Institution: Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
Published by: University Business