A Suggested Change in Higher Ed Language Could Simplify the Journey to a Career
A proposed update to the way higher education institutions describe their services, programs, and resources could help clarify the sometimes confusing landscape of credits, supports, pathways, timelines, and costs.
The nomenclature used by these institutions often feels like a made-up language, which can be daunting for prospective students and their families. For example, a bachelor’s degree program might be branded as a “Pathway to Professional Excellence” or “A Journey to Fulfillment,” but beneath the marketing jargon, it’s often a straightforward sequence of classes and credits.
By using clear and descriptive language, institutions could help students and families better understand the costs and time commitments involved in pursuing a particular degree or certification. This, in turn, could lead to more informed decisions about whether a program is a good fit and whether it aligns with a student’s long-term career goals.
Simplifying the Higher Education Landscape
The proposed change in language is not about eliminating creativity and branding altogether, but about using clear and descriptive language to accompany it. This way, institutions can still differentiate themselves and showcase their unique offerings, while also providing students and families with the information they need to make informed decisions.
For example, instead of describing a program as a “Timed Pathway to Success,” it might be called a “4-Year Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a Focus on Management.” This language is straightforward and clear, and it gives prospective students a better understanding of what to expect.
What this means
The proposed update to higher education language could make a significant difference in the lives of prospective students and their families. By using clear and descriptive language, institutions can help students better understand their options and make informed decisions about their educational and career paths.
Ultimately, this change could help create a more transparent and student-centered higher education system, where institutions are more focused on supporting students in achieving their goals than on using marketing gimmicks to attract them.
