Transforming Higher Education: A Competitive Advantage for NC

Institutions of higher education are critical to North Carolina’s competitive advantage in a global economy. But higher education is at a turning point. Costs are rising faster than incomes. Many among poor and minority populations do not have sufficient access, and those that do tend to struggle or drop out. Curricula have become rigid and poorly adapted to the needs of business and society.  

IEI’s multi-year program of work entitled, Transforming Higher Education: A Competitive Advantage for North Carolina, identified innovations that will help universities and community colleges stay ahead of the curve and respond to the changing needs of business and communities.

Participants in IEI's model public policy process must confront the need to improve access and accountability while reconciling the demand for performance measures against the need for a creative and flexible workforce. In doing so, we will ensure our system of higher education remains a competitive advantage for North Carolina.