The Relationship Between Public and Private College Enrollment Rates

Peter Haldis

PUAF 611

Research Question

Primary question: What is the effect of public college enrollment rates on private college enrollment rates?

Secondary question: What is the effect of tuition rates at public colleges on public college enrollment?

Relationship to Midterm Project

Analysis used in midterm project studied the wage premium for college graduates, compared those who only have a high school diploma.

The data sets for the analysis included data on public and private college enrollment rates, average public college tuition and state appropriations per college-aged student.

Econometric Analysis

Fixed Effects model

Enables the accounting of time effects on the variables

OLS regression shows positive relationship between tuition and enrollment because these effects aren’t accounted for.

Regressions without other variables

Regressions with college-aged persons

Regressions with state appros.

Policy Implications

There is significant overlap among private and public college students.

Value seems to be an important factor for public colleges and universities.

Tuition increases drive some students out of the college population.

Policy Recommendations

Do not increase tuition at public institutions.

Try to find ways to decrease tuition from its current level.