Future Of Higher Education Facilities (North America)
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Executive Summary
Prolonged periods of political unrest, economic volatility and a growing lack of interest amongst prospective students have pushed many North American higher education institutions to breaking point. Amid intensifying challenges surrounding blended learning, and pressure to align with incoming ESG targets, it is imperative for institutions to prioritize the digital transformation of their facilities. This report outlines how digital strategies are now core to survival in the higher education space. It analyses the role of technology in enabling colleges to overcome prominent headwinds in the sector, and unpacks the future of higher education institutions to 2050 and beyond. Technology vendors can leverage the report’s findings to capitalize on the changing priorities of educational real estate owners and investors.College campuses were traditionally the cornerstone of the higher education experience
Institutions must act proactively and decisively to avoid falling victim to the sector’s downward trends
Technological innovation will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education facilities
Is it smart to go to college?
Rising tuition fees and safety concerns are exacerbating downward enrolment trends
Labour gaps and high competition for academic staff are amplifying challenges
By 2050, the higher education landscape will be polarized, with a clear divide between leading innovators and laggards
Figure 2a. Key sources of funding for public higher education institutions
Figure 2b. Key sources of funding for private higher education institutions
Figure 3. Postgraduate-fuelled investment cycle in higher education institutions
Figure 4. Notable recent higher education institution closures
About the Authors
Sophie Planken-Bichler
Analyst
Sophie is an Analyst at Verdantix, specializing in AEC software and digital twins. She provides strategic guidance to both technology buyers and software vendors, delivering i...
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Claire Stephens
Research Director
Claire Stephens is a Research Director at Verdantix, leading research into technologies and services shaping the real estate and the built environment, encompassing ...
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