The closure of the Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD) was announced recently due to low enrollment numbers. Despite efforts to find additional funding, the institution was unable to overcome the challenges related to declining enrollment and rising costs. The president of DCAD, Jean Dahlgren, highlighted the issues faced by the college, including a shrinking pool of college-age students and unexpected problems with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) rollout. According to federal data, enrollment at DCAD declined by nearly 10% between 2017 and 2022, signaling a significant drop in student interest.
One of the major contributing factors to DCAD’s closure was the ongoing problems with the new FAFSA form. Experts have pointed out that these issues have resulted in fewer students applying for financial aid, leading to declining enrollment numbers across various institutions. The rocky rollout of FAFSA has added pressure on colleges, especially smaller private institutions like DCAD, which are struggling to attract students. The consequences of fewer students and less tuition revenue have put many colleges under financial pressure, with some facing the risk of insolvency.
The closure of DCAD reflects a broader trend in the education sector, as fewer students are interested in pursuing traditional college degrees after high school. The population of college-age students is shrinking, resulting in what experts refer to as the “enrollment cliff.” This trend, compounded by rising costs and inflation, has made it challenging for small private institutions to sustain themselves. With more students opting for less expensive alternatives to traditional degrees, colleges are facing a significant financial strain.
Experts warn that the impact of declining enrollment and revenue may have long-term consequences for the education sector. If students continue to opt-out of college due to concerns about affordability and uncertainty, the effects could be felt for years to come. Colleges that are already facing financial instability may be pushed over the edge by even a modest decline in enrollment. The Department of Education has emphasized the importance of supporting colleges and universities to ensure they have the resources needed to process student records efficiently and encourage enrollment in higher education.
Collaborative Solutions
Despite the challenges faced by DCAD, the institution has stated that it will work with incoming first-year students and rising second-year students to help them transfer to partner schools. By collaborating with institutions like the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design and Moore College of Art and Design, DCAD aims to provide students with alternative pathways to continue their education. This collaborative approach reflects the importance of supporting students through transitions and ensuring they have access to educational opportunities.
Overall, the closure of DCAD highlights the complex challenges faced by institutions in the current educational landscape. As colleges grapple with declining enrollment, rising costs, and ongoing issues with financial aid, it is essential for stakeholders to work together to find sustainable solutions for the future of higher education. Understanding the impact of these challenges and the potential long-term consequences is crucial for shaping a more resilient and inclusive education system.