The decline in male enrollment in higher education is a pressing issue with far-reaching implications. Males are struggling with the ROI of a 4-year degree, seeking immediate work and trade programs that can guarantee them income without taking on student loan debt. As strategists and service designers, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes, societal impacts, and potential design interventions to address this trend.
Since 2011, there has been a decrease of approximately 1 million male college students. As of 2023, men constitute just 42% of 10.9 million 4-year degree college students, a reversal from 50 years ago when there were a million more male students. Not only are men enrolling less, but they are also completing degrees at lower rates compared to women. Compared to private and state colleges, trade schools seem more appealing to young male students seeking career readiness with minimal student loan debt to take on after high school. The shift away from the traditional college experience for men is detrimental to higher education institutions, as they risk losing the next generation of male enrollment if no changes are made to support them.
The decline in male college enrollment has broader societal consequences. Lower educational attainment among men can lead to reduced earning potential and economic mobility. Educational disparities can also affect family structures, community engagement, and societal cohesion. Furthermore, declining male enrollment may have public health implications, as educational attainment is linked to personal health. When fewer men attain higher education, it can exacerbate income inequality, contribute to higher unemployment rates, and ultimately weaken the social and economic fabric that underpins vibrant, healthy communities.
To address this issue, we have thought about the following opportunity areas for those working to solve this challenge:
Tailored Academic Programs: How Might We develop flexible programs that align with men who might be hesitant about a four-year degree program?
Career-Oriented Programs: How Might We introduce programs that connect education with tangible job outcomes, appealing to men seeking direct career paths?
Male-Only Mentorship and Support: How Might We establish mentorship programs featuring male role models, particularly in fields where men are underrepresented?
Cultural Relevance: How Might We design curricula and campus experiences that resonate with diverse male identities and experiences?
Community Engagement: How Might We partner with community organizations to reach potential male students and understand their needs and barriers?
To re-engage male students, higher education institutions should tailor communication strategies to address the specific concerns and aspirations of male students. Universities should prioritize creating campus cultures that value and support male students from all backgrounds. For example, through the AIBM (American Institution for Boys and Men) and HEMAC (Higher Education Male Achievement Collaborative), colleges such as the University of Vermont and the University of Tennessee have implemented male-focused mentorship and networking events, which have led to increased enrollment and retention rates. Lastly, by implementing data-driven approaches to assess effectiveness, higher-ed institutions can make continuous improvements to help male students feel valued.
Addressing the decline in male college enrollment requires a multifaceted, inclusive approach. By understanding the trends and societal impacts and designing targeted interventions, we can all play a pivotal role in creating educational systems that support all learners.
