The Shaping of American Higher Education: Emergence and Growth of the Contemporary System is a pivotal work that delves into the historical and modern landscape of higher education in the United States. This second edition not only revisits the themes laid out in the first edition but also expands upon them with up-to-date research and critical insights that reflect the transformations that have occurred over the last quarter-century.

Initially published to great acclaim, this book provides an authoritative and comprehensive account of American higher education’s evolution. The authors, Arthur Cohen and Carrie Kisker, meticulously track trends and issues across eight essential domains: student access, faculty professionalization, curricular expansion, institutional growth, governance, finance, research, and outcomes. Each of these areas is explored in depth, providing readers with a thorough understanding of how each aspect has influenced the current state of higher education.

In this thoroughly revised and updated edition, readers will find critical new data and recent information derived from specialized sources concerning faculty, student admissions, and management practices. Importantly, the book introduces an entirely new section that examines privatization, corporatization, and accountability in higher education from the mid-1990s to the present. This fresh perspective is particularly relevant in today’s context, where the landscape of higher education is continuously evolving.

As noted by Art Levine, president of the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation, the authors provide a much-needed service by addressing the significant transformations in American higher education over the last 25 years. This second edition is particularly valuable for anyone looking to understand the key issues and challenges faced by institutions today.

Judith S. Eaton, president of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, also praises the work, highlighting the insightful analysis and commentary that Cohen and Kisker provide regarding the past, present, and future of higher education. This book serves as an invaluable resource for students, educators, and policymakers who seek to engage deeply with the complexities of higher education.

John Lombardi, president of the Louisiana State University System, emphasizes the masterful and authoritative nature of this work. He notes that the updates included in this edition offer a nuanced perspective on the ongoing transformations within the higher education industry, particularly in light of recent crises.

Roger L. Geiger, distinguished professor at The Pennsylvania State University, commends the authors for their systematic approach and comprehensive coverage. He points out their ability to provide historical context while tackling the controversial issues that permeate the current era of higher education.

In conclusion, The Shaping of American Higher Education: Emergence and Growth of the Contemporary System is an essential read for anyone invested in understanding the trajectory of higher education in the United States. The book’s blend of historical perspective, comprehensive data, and thoughtful analysis makes it a vital resource for educators, students, and policymakers alike.