As 2025 ends, experts are examining the future of higher education in the United States amid economic uncertainty and increased federal involvement. Eddie Cole, a historian at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), shared his insights on what to expect in 2026.
Cole’s research focuses on race, social movements on college campuses, power structures, and the significant role colleges and universities play in American society.
When asked about public perception of higher education for 2026, Cole said: “At best, the perception of higher education — as a collective — will remain the same. But it is likely to worsen, especially in an increasingly uncertain economy.”
Regarding whether college remains necessary for success, Cole responded: “The real question is ‘how are Americans defining success?’ The answer will tell us about the value and necessity of a college education.”
Discussing recent changes to financial aid under the Trump administration and their effects on prospective students, Cole noted: “The change in financial aid limits, especially with this administration’s reclassification of what is a professional degree, will have long-term implications. For example, I anticipate we will see fewer nurses and fewer educational specialists — at a time when those areas are already understaffed.”
Cole also addressed broader shifts within higher education: “The politically driven dismantling of regional accreditation agencies’ authority is one of the most consequential recent developments in higher education. A core tenet of academia is the autonomy of colleges and universities, and a basic standard for an institution to maintain accreditation is that it operates free of political interference. That interference is the new norm.”
UCLA continues its mission as a major public research university offering diverse academic programs across many disciplines. It attracts students and scholars from around California, across the United States, and internationally through its broad range of offerings official website. The institution supports tens of thousands of students with undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs designed to develop knowledge and skills official website. UCLA has built its reputation on excellence in scholarship as well as arts and athletics official website, while fostering diversity through inclusive academic environments official website.
