Watch Declining by Degrees: Higher Education at Risk

Declining by Degrees: Higher Education at Risk is a documentary from PBS that explores the current state of higher education in the United States. The film aims to shine a light on the numerous challenges facing colleges and universities, and how they are impacting the quality and accessibility of education.

At the heart of the film is the question of whether higher education in America is still a viable pathway to success, or whether it is too expensive, too outdated, or too exclusive to make a difference in today's world. The documentary examines the experiences of students, educators, and administrators across the country, offering a comprehensive and nuanced look at the issues that are affecting the system as a whole.

A major focus of the film is the skyrocketing cost of college tuition and how it is affecting students' ability to pursue higher education. Through interviews with a variety of stakeholders, including student loan experts, financial aid advisors, and college admissions officers, the documentary explores the various factors that have led to the current state of affairs, from cuts in state funding to colleges' reliance on tuition revenue.

The documentary also delves into the impact of these financial pressures on students' mental health and well-being. It features interviews with students who are struggling to balance the demands of academic coursework and part-time jobs to make ends meet, as well as experts who discuss the long-term consequences of such stress on young adults.

Another issue explored in the film is the changing landscape of higher education in the digital age. As online learning platforms and alternative credentialing mechanisms become increasingly popular, traditional universities are struggling to keep up. The documentary examines whether these new options offer a viable alternative to a college degree, or whether they are simply a symptom of a broken system.

The film also explores the demographic shifts that are affecting colleges and universities across the country. With a growing number of first-generation college students, low-income students, and students of color, universities are under increasing pressure to diversify their faculty and student bodies, and to provide a more inclusive learning environment. The documentary examines the challenges that universities face in meeting these demands, and the potential benefits of doing so.

Throughout the documentary, viewers are introduced to a range of voices and perspectives, from students who are struggling to stay afloat to administrators who are trying to navigate the complex web of financial and administrative challenges facing their institutions. Through these insights, the film offers a nuanced and comprehensive look at the issues facing higher education today, and provides hope for a more equitable and sustainable future for students, educators, and the broader society.

Overall, Declining by Degrees: Higher Education at Risk is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of education in America. With its insightful commentary, compelling stories, and thought-provoking insights, the documentary provides an important and timely snapshot of a crucial issue facing our country today.