6% is DOUBLE 3%. Tell me when double isn't a "huge" difference with TX's population. |
PP here. I think it’s a combination of factors. Most small PA towns (where the PASSHE schools tend to be located) have been bleeding population for years, due to the loss of coal mining & manufacturing. There are simply fewer teens in those places than there used to be. They’re also not in places that are easy to commute to, whether you’re a student, faculty or staff member. Additionally, the state chronically underinvests in higher ed. Thus, schools are charging around $25k/year. Only a couple offer engineering. They’re not worth what they’re charging. A talented high schooler in, say, Manfield can go OOS or to a private for that or cheaper. You can’t turn a corner in PA without hitting a small LAC. Some go to state schools in WV or OH. Others go to PSU satellite campuses as a commuter & either stay the full four years at one or transfer to main campus. Penn State is seen as a better “brand” that the PASSHE schools. |
Sadly, I think $25k is just what you pay for college these days. I mean, if you commute, you can pay less. Or if you are low income. But Radford and ODU cost that ![]() |
Virginia |
It does vary by major. |
The UC schools have issues, which many on DCUM overlook. Many of the campuses can only house a relatively low percentage of students on campus (Berkeley is 20%) and off-campus housing is often expensive, poor quality, or distant. There are many articles about students living in vans and trailer parks. It is difficult to get required classes, some programs are completely over-enrolled, and undergraduate teaching and advising does not get high ratings. |
As a graduate of a CA school, married to a graduate of California school, I concur. |