In ‘The College of the Future,’ authors Jeffrey Docking and Kevin Harrington present a transformative vision for private, non-profit colleges in America. These institutions have long served as vital centers of education, culture, and community. However, they now face unprecedented challenges, including rising operational costs and declining student enrollments. Many colleges are struggling financially, leading to closures that impact students, faculty, alumni, and local communities.

This insightful book outlines a strategic framework aimed at helping these colleges innovate and thrive within their challenging environments. The authors advocate for a collaborative model, allowing institutions to develop new programs—majors, minors, certificates, and courses—at significantly lower costs and risks. By implementing this approach, they argue that colleges can not only boost enrollment but also reduce tuition costs for students.

The narrative begins with a serendipitous meeting between Docking and a Google employee, which sparks a journey into the evolution of course-sharing among colleges. This evolution culminates in a groundbreaking partnership with Rize Education and a consortium of forward-thinking colleges. By leveraging technology and collaboration, colleges can enhance their competitiveness in the educational landscape, ultimately leading to increased student enrollments and financial sustainability.

Throughout the book, Docking and Harrington present compelling evidence of the success stories emerging from this innovative model. They explore how shared courses and majors have allowed institutions to remain viable and responsive in a rapidly changing educational landscape. Their analysis highlights not only the challenges faced by colleges but also the opportunities for growth and transformation.

‘The College of the Future’ is not merely a theoretical discussion; it offers practical solutions grounded in real-world applications. The authors emphasize the importance of adaptability and collaboration in overcoming the obstacles that many colleges face today. By embracing these new models, institutions can position themselves for a successful future, ensuring that they can continue to serve students and communities for years to come.

In conclusion, this book is an essential read for educators, administrators, and policymakers interested in the future of higher education. It provides a roadmap for transforming the business model of colleges, ultimately benefiting students and society as a whole. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, ‘The College of the Future’ stands as a beacon of hope and innovation.