South Carolina has instituted a system of accountability linked to funding for its public colleges; it includes six measures of faculty, six measures of graduate preparedness to succeed, and five measures of instructional quality. The practice has transformed the way the institution operates, but some educators question the fairness and…

Total state appropriations for higher education reached their highest level ever in fiscal 1996-97, demonstrating strength in public support for higher education and a continuing modest recovery from earlier recession. Black institutions have fared less well than others, overall. Only two states saw two-year declines. Fifteen states accounted for…

State spending on higher education has risen up to 30% in some states, with much of the new money paying for technology, upgrading community colleges, and providing funds to college shortchanged previously. Only Alaska and Hawaii showed net decreases. Data on 1997-98 dollar appropriations and percentage changes for each state institution and for…

In 1995-96, a leveling of state spending on student financial aid ended a five-year period of rapid growth. Most of the aid is in the form of need-based grants to undergraduates. Four states slashed need-based aid expenditures by over 10%, and 10 increased it by over 10%. Reductions are attributed to competition for funds. (MSE)

Throughout the South, and to a lesser extent throughout the country, state budgets for higher education are the healthiest since 1990. In 1998 to 1999, state budgets for higher education are 6.7% more than the previous year. Community colleges, distance learning, and student aid will enjoy large gains. Three states (Alaska, Hawaii, South Carolina)…