Many people argue that there are too many individuals attending university, but I believe that the issue lies with our economy not creating enough jobs for these graduates. Instead of focusing on the quantity of higher education, let’s shift our attention to the geographical aspect of universities.
When politicians call for a reduction in the number of students, they fail to address which specific university should be closed. It’s important to note that shutting down universities in deprived areas would have a significant economic impact. Research from the US highlights the consequences of creating more education “cold spots” and how it affects different communities.
The distance individuals live from the nearest post-secondary institution plays a crucial role in their likelihood of pursuing further education. While living further from a college generally decreases the chances of continuing education post-18, the impact varies among different groups. Non-disadvantaged students tend to opt for more prestigious colleges offering four-year degrees when faced with distance barriers.
On the other hand, disadvantaged students, as well as Black and Hispanic students, are less likely to pursue any form of higher education when living far from a community college. Specifically, living 30-plus miles away from a community college reduces the likelihood of attending a four-year college by 6-12 percentage points for these groups.
Currently, there is a stark contrast in university attendance rates across different regions. In London, 61.4% of students go on to university, while only 44.5% in the south-west and 19% of students in Wales on free school meals attend university. It’s crucial to consider the repercussions of criticizing the value of university education and the potential closure of educational institutions in disadvantaged areas.
By understanding the implications of creating education “cold spots,” we can work towards a more inclusive and accessible higher education system that benefits all members of society. It’s essential to address the underlying issues in our economy that hinder the job prospects of graduates, rather than placing the blame on an “overeducated” workforce. Let’s prioritize equitable access to education and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic background.
