Challenges Facing Small Religious Colleges in Rural America

SOURCE www.npr.org
Small religiously affiliated colleges in rural states, like St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University, are facing declining enrollment and financial challenges. To combat this, they have formed a partnership to stay afloat and provide access to higher education for rural students.

Key Points

  • Religiously affiliated colleges in rural areas are struggling with enrollment declines and financial woes
  • More partnerships and mergers are being seen among these institutions to survive
  • Religious colleges provide unique value including personalized education and strong community bonds

Pros

  • Personalized education
  • Strong sense of community and shared values
  • Higher graduation rates than national average

Cons

  • Facing declining enrollment
  • Financial challenges
  • Risk of closure