Requires public institution of higher education to post certain information on institution's website.
Impact
The bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding higher education. It supplements Title 18A of the New Jersey Statutes, which governs public education institutions. By enforcing a requirement for institutions to publicly share performance data, A4971 aligns with national trends toward increased accountability in higher education, ensuring that students and taxpayers receive better information about how well these institutions are serving their educational missions.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4971 focuses on enhancing transparency and accountability in public institutions of higher education in New Jersey. The bill mandates these institutions to publish specific information on their websites, such as the average time-to-degree completion for degrees awarded and other key student outcomes. This measure aims to provide prospective students and the public with clearer insights into educational performance and institutional effectiveness, facilitating informed decision-making.
Sentiment
General sentiment surrounding A4971 appears positive, with many stakeholders recognizing the value of enhanced transparency in higher education. Supporters argue that by making critical data available, the bill will empower students and parents, contributing to a more informed public. However, the bill may face scrutiny from institutions concerned about the administrative burden of compliance and the potential implications of publishing performance metrics that may vary widely between institutions.
Contention
Notable points of contention include how student outcomes are measured and reported, as well as the implications of publicizing the time-to-degree statistics. Discussions may arise regarding the fairness of comparing institutions with varying resources, student demographics, and program offerings. Additionally, institutions could express concern over the potential for misinterpretation of the data provided, which could affect their reputation and enrollment figures.
Requires four-year public institutions of higher education to provide on website certain information on online degree students and graduate degree students.
Requires four-year public institutions of higher education to provide on website certain information on online degree students and graduate degree students.
Requires four-year public institutions of higher education to provide on website certain information on online degree students and graduate degree students.
Requires four-year public institutions of higher education to provide on website certain information on online degree students and graduate degree students.
Requires tuition bills of public institutions of higher education to include details on student fees and opt-out provision for student-managed entertainment fees, and requires certain institutions' websites to include student fee information.
Requires public institutions of higher education to submit annual fiscal monitoring report; authorizes Secretary of Higher Education to appoint State monitor of certain institutions; requires higher education chief financial officers complete training; annually appropriates $100,000.
Requires public institutions of higher education to submit annual fiscal monitoring report; authorizes Secretary of Higher Education to appoint State monitor of certain institutions; requires higher education chief financial officers complete training; annually appropriates $100,000.