How State Funding Strategies Affect Graduation Rates at Community Colleges: A Mixed Model Analysis

• In Event: Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual iPresentation Only: Division J - Section 5: Policy, Finance, and Economics Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

The study attempts to address the national concern over low completion rates in public 2-year colleges using a refined public finance strategies framework (St. John, Daun-Barnett & Moronski-Chapman, 2018) with the state as the unit of analysis. Data from 46 states over 13 years were analyzed using a longitudinal mixed-methods approach. Results indicated that the average 3-year graduation improved over time. State economies, employment rates, and demographics contributed to the variability in graduation rates. Public 4-year non-selective institutions were positively associated with completion in public 2-year colleges, a probable impact of articulation agreements.

Authors

• Zhan Shi, Texas Christian University

• Edward P. St. John, University of Michigan