re: Interesting NY Times article on University of Alabama and USCe

quote:

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Money Shot: Alabama has invested heavily to lure students like Ms. Zavilowitz, who does not qualify for federal financial aid. The university is spending $100.6 million in merit aid, up from $8.3 million a decade ago and more than twice what it allocates to students with financial need.

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Basically Alabama is buying smart students (it is working). In the academic community there is discussion about the merits of such an approach but it is the strategy that Alabama has taken. Of course there are advantages and disadvantages over fast growth. Many believe (I am one) that there is an education bubble and that this growth contains some risks as Alabama is highly leveraged with regards to buildings, faculty, etc. to maintain that growth. (NOTE: Alabama is not alone).

If the bubble pops, look for taxpayers to foot the bill.