Rural students are oftenfinding college out of reach despite intensified recruitment initiatives
Rural college enrollment and attendance are significantly lower compared to suburban and urban areas. According to recent research, approximately 56% to 60% of rural high school graduates enroll in college, which is lower than the 64% enrollment rate for suburban students and 59% for urban students[1][3]. This gap is influenced by various factors, including limited access to colleges, fewer dual enrollment opportunities, and economic barriers.
Access to Postsecondary Institutions
Many rural areas have fewer colleges, resulting in "education deserts" where students face long distances or lack suitable local options, hindering access and enrollment[3]. To address this issue, rural school districts are increasingly offering college-level courses and working to remove academic and financial obstacles to higher education.
Dual Enrollment Programs
Participation in dual enrollment programs, which allow high school students to earn college credits, remains slightly lower among rural students. However, programs financed by federal relief funds or local support can improve enrollment by reducing costs and providing early exposure to college-level work[1]. In some districts, like Perry, New York, enrollment in dual enrollment programs has exceeded the national average in recent years[5].
Economic and Financial Barriers
Rural students often face higher relative costs of college attendance, including tuition, travel, and housing, as well as food insecurity, which can discourage enrollment. Community colleges serve as important access points in both rural and urban areas, but addressing the full cost of attendance is critical[1][5]. Some rural districts, such as the one in Perry, have directed federal pandemic relief money toward covering tuition for students in its Accelerated College Enrollment program, a partnership with Genesee Community College[5].
Changing Career Aspirations
A growing number of rural students show interest in skilled trades and short-term credential programs, reflecting shifting labor market demands and the perception that a college degree is not the only path to economic stability[3]. For instance, high school junior Devon Wells in Perry, New York, is considering a career as a welder or an electrical line worker in South Carolina, citing higher pay opportunities[5].
Community and Institutional Support
Sustained community support and partnerships with colleges, such as those showcased by rural districts partnering with nearby community colleges, have been shown to increase college enrollment rates, indicating the importance of local initiatives in motivating students[1]. For example, Principal Joe Theobold sets and meets an annual goal of 100% college admission for students at Q.I. Roberts Jr.-Sr. High School[4].
In conclusion, rural college attendance is influenced by a complex interplay of geographic, economic, and cultural factors. Efforts such as expanding dual enrollment and financial support seem effective in reducing gaps between rural and non-rural student outcomes[1][3][5]. As the demand for skilled trades and short-term credential programs grows, it is essential to ensure that rural students have access to these opportunities and the support needed to succeed.
References
- Belfield, C. R., & Levin, H. M. (2018). The Economic Benefits from Closing the College Completion Gap. Brookings Institution.
- Dynarski, S. (2018). The Benefits of College for All. Brookings Institution.
- National Center for Education Statistics. (2021). Fast Facts: College Enrollment.
- Perry Central School District. (n.d.). Accelerated College Enrollment.
- The Hechinger Report. (2021, August 16). Rural High School Students Are Overcoming Obstacles to College. Here's How.
- The Associated Press. (n.d.). Education coverage receives support from private foundations.
- The limited number of colleges in rural areas creates education deserts, making access to postsecondary institutions challenging for students, thus hindering college enrollment.
- Dual enrollment programs can help lower the enrollment gap between rural and non-rural students, as they allow high school students to earn college credits and reduce costs.
- Rural students often face economic barriers to college attendance, such as higher tuition, travel, and housing costs, which may discourage enrollment.
- As the demand for skilled trades and short-term credential programs grows, it is crucial to ensure that rural students have opportunities in these fields while receiving the necessary support to succeed.
