In this paper, we use economic concepts to examine the choice that states make between giving appropriations to public colleges or need-based financial aid to students. We begin by reviewing the economic justification for state support for higher education. Next, we introduce a simple economic model for comparing and contrasting appropriations and…

A study examined the level of public funding for universities and its relationship to quality in 8 U.S. and 52 British universities. Data on productivity of science faculty in the American institutions were also examined and compared with efforts to fund British universities based on scholarship and scientific achievement. (Author/MSE)

Formulates a model partitioning college/university administrative/faculty ratio (administrative intensity) into two components, one using internal factors and one using sources of funding dependence, to explain demand for administrative resources. Results show public institutions use relatively fewer administrative resources in seeking both public…

Five groups of undergraduate students (academic dismissals, low grade point average [GPA] stopouts, high GPA stopouts, low GPA persisters, and high GPA persisters) were compared in terms of their responses to a checklist of financial sources of support. Clear sex differences were observed in the reliance on financial sources. (Author/MLW)