Is concurrent enrollment math less rigorous than traditional college math?
A new study by the Office of the Commissioner compares students who take a postsecondary math course via concurrent enrollment with traditionally enrolled college students at a USHE institution to explore whether there is a difference in students’ postsecondary math success. The Institutional Research staff analyzed more than 48,000 enrollments in general education math courses (Math […]
New national survey highlights perceptions of U.S. higher education
A newly released survey by New America, Varying Degrees: New America’s Annual Survey on Higher Education, surveys 1,600 individuals nationwide to better understand the perceptions of and knowledge about higher education and economic mobility. This survey provides insights into the opinions about higher education across generations, ethnicities and several other demographics. Some key findings emerge […]
Introducing the 2017-18 Student Body Presidents

As the 2016-2017 academic year comes to an end, new Student Body Presidents have been elected at USHE’s colleges and universities. The Student Body Presidents, elected by their student peers, will serve during the 2017-18 academic year. The presidents, together, form the leadership for the statewide student association that advocates on behalf of students on […]
USHE institutions hold prevention and awareness activities during Sexual Assault Awareness Month
During the month of April, which is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, public colleges and universities throughout Utah hosted a variety of events designed to raise awareness of campus sexual assault. University of Utah The University of Utah held events during the month focused around their 2017 theme of “Engage Voices, Challenge Rape Culture” to help […]
State funding is key ingredient to Utah’s efficient colleges and universities
Springtime in higher ed brings the excitement of commencements, graduations, and post-college adventures. In the next few weeks, over 30,000 USHE students will be awarded certificates and degrees, a major lifetime accomplishment that will prepare them for their future. Less visibly, spring is also the time when state budgets across the country are adopted for […]
Board of Regents to adopt major governance revisions in 2017
The 2017 Legislature adopted some of the most sweeping governance revisions for the Board of Regents since its establishment in 1969 through SB 238, Higher Education Governance Revisions (Millner/Wilson). The legislation puts into the law significant areas of existing policy and practice of the board, including board member selection, board duties, the selection of institution […]
2017 Legislative Update – Week 6
2017-2018 Budget The Executive Appropriations Committee approved its first round of funding items on Friday. For higher education, initial items include: Compensation: 2% labor market adjustment increase (plus funding for health insurance rate increases), with the ratio of funding at 75% from state funds and 25% of tuition funds. Student Enrollment Growth: $3.5 million ongoing for […]
2017 Legislative Update – Week 4
Higher Education Luncheon Regents, Trustees, Presidents and student leaders gathered on Friday for the annual higher education luncheon in the Capitol Rotunda. Attended by over 75 legislators, including members of legislative leadership, it was a good opportunity to re-emphasize USHE’s budget and capital development priorities. The Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee The Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee […]
2017 Legislative Update – Week 1
Overview The 2017 Session of the Utah State Legislature got underway Monday, January 23, and will conclude Thursday, March 9. It is anticipated there will be several bills with potential impact to the Utah System of Higher Education, all of which will be tracked and responses coordinated by the Commissioner’s Office and institutions. 2017-2018 Budget According […]
Myth vs. Reality: How do college graduates fare in the workforce?
Recent headlines reported that for the first time in 130 years, more 18 to 34-year-olds live with parents than with partners. Some have attributed this trend to the lack of job prospects for college graduates, that the value of a college degree is diminishing, or that student debt is a drag on homeownership. Understandably, 18 […]