American higher education at the crossroads: Between liberal arts and entrepreneurial education

Background: American higher education faces declining public trust, rising costs, and growing skepticism about its relevance to the job market. As artificial intelligence and globalization reshape societal and economic landscapes, universities must prepare students for complex, real-world challenges. Research objectives: Text This study investigates the role of entrepreneurial experiential learning in addressing these challenges by fostering critical skills, enhancing engagement, and cultivating entrepreneurial mindsets. Research design and methods: Using a practitioner self-study approach, the research analyzes two case studies—Education Entrepreneurship and Education Consulting courses at a large private university. Data sources include instructor observations, student feedback surveys, and reflective memos analyzed through thematic analysis. Results: The findings demonstrate that entrepreneurial experiential learning enhances students’ problem-solving, collaboration, and social impact assessment skills while preparing them for leadership in the social economy. Conclusions: Entrepreneurial experiential learning bridges theory and practice, equipping students with essential skills for navigating societal challenges and driving reform in higher education. By addressing the skills gap and prioritizing human-centered problem-solving, this model contributes to the ongoing evolution of universities as catalysts for social impact.