Demographic changes continue to affect patterns of college enrollment. Since 1970, college enrollment of women has increased 77 percent, compared to a 23 percent increase for men. Indeed, women are contributing to a whole new style of postsecondary education emerging in America. Their patterns of enrollment and economic profiles differ from those of men, however, which should send warning signals to student aid analysts and college officials. Further, females with degrees are more likely to enter the careers paying the lowest salaries.
Several policies are of significant concern.
More women tend to work in nonmanagerial positions with more restricted job descriptions and therefore have fewer such opportunities. More women may be unwilling to apply for loans when they face the prospect of low earnings upon graduation. Recipients of research assistantships have more opportunities to publish before they finish their Ph.D.s and receive more subsidized conference travel. National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, 1986. Hansen, Janet S., and Paul L. Franklin.