How College Affects Students is a comprehensive analysis that synthesizes over 1,800 individual research investigations to provide profound insights into the impact of higher education on student populations. This bestselling book, published by Jossey-Bass, is essential for anyone involved in education, from administrators and faculty to policymakers and student affairs practitioners.

This third volume offers a detailed examination of findings accumulated between 2002 and 2013, highlighting diverse aspects of college impact. It covers a wide array of topics, including cognitive and moral development, shifts in attitudes and values, psychosocial change, educational attainment, and the economic, career, and quality of life outcomes that follow graduation.

Each chapter meticulously compares current findings with those from Volumes 1 and 2, which cover the period from 1967 to 2001. This comparison allows readers to grasp the extent of agreement and disagreement in research findings over the past 45 years, thus providing a richer context for understanding the evolving landscape of higher education.

Moreover, the structure of each chapter is designed to help readers understand if and how college works and, importantly, for whom it is effective. This aspect is crucial as higher education faces increasing scrutiny in today’s world. Understanding its impact on students is vital for shaping future educational policies and practices.

In an era marked by introspection and skepticism regarding the value of higher education, How College Affects Students compiles and organizes a vast body of research. This volume distills the essence of a decade’s worth of findings and presents them in a cohesive manner, making the information accessible to both researchers and practitioners.

By reviewing a decade’s worth of research and comparing it with findings from previous decades, this book provides a multifaceted analysis of higher education’s impact. Each piece of empirical evidence presented serves to inform policy and practice effectively, guiding stakeholders in making informed decisions about the future of education.

In conclusion, How College Affects Students is not just a book; it is an invaluable resource for understanding the profound effects of higher education on individuals and society. Its expert analysis and comprehensive research synthesis make it essential reading for anyone invested in the future of higher education.