Responses of U.S. Public Universities to Declining College Enrollment

[Purpose] This study aims to examine the current trends in declining college enrollment in the U.S. and explore how higher education institutions have responded, with a goal of deriving policy implications. [Methods] This study employed a multiple case study approach and document analysis to examine four U.S. state universities currently experiencing enrollment declines. [Results] Similar to other countries, the U.S. has experienced college enrollment declines, leading to budget shortfalls. The universities in this study have reviewed and downsized their academic programs and are considering mergers and new recruitment strategies. However, their responses vary depending on each university's unique context and background. [Conclusion] The findings underscore the importance of predicting and managing enrollment, highlighting the need to strengthen the role of Institutional Research centers and expand their responsibilities. Additionally, it is worth considering the importance of university autonomy in adjusting strategies to their unique contexts to address enrollment challenges effectively.