A new study by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) suggests that three year degrees are not the productivity fix that many politicians think they are. In The Three Year Bachelor’s Degree: Reform Measure or Red Herring?, the AASCU argues that the three year option does not meet student needs and is not likely to prove a popular educational option. In the words of the report, “regardless of the model employed by colleges and universities in delivering the three-year degree, students face significant financial, family and college preparation challenges in their efforts to finish a bachelor’s degree in a shortened time frame.”
The report also suggests that any attempt to implement a shortened degree option should only be done in consultation with faculty, students, and staff. During the consultations on university reform held this summer, the Government of Ontario heard deep skepticism on the three year option from almost all stakeholders. Clearly, this is not an idea that will work well for Ontario universities.
This article originally appeared in the OCUFA Report. To receive stories like this every week in your inbox, please subscribe.