The Equity Factor: Reproducing or Reducing Equity Through Reverse Transfer Policies

• In Event: The Intersection of State Policy and Student Attainment

Abstract

In light of recent efforts by states and institutions to implement reverse transfer programs, it is critical to understand the extent to which reverse transfer programs and policies impact underserved students and reduce equity gaps in collegiate attainment. This study uses data from Hawaii and Minnesota to examine how reverse transfer policies reduce educational gaps for underserved students. In contrast to previous research on racial and socioeconomic gaps in the attainment rates of transfer students, our results show that certain underrepresented populations are more likely to receive associate’s degrees among the pool of students eligible for reverse transfer. The results suggest that reverse transfer policies may contribute to the closing of equity gaps in postsecondary attainment.

Authors

• Jason L. Taylor, University of Utah

• Debra D. Bragg, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

• Matt Giani, The University of Texas - Austin