The roots of controversy surrounding higher education in the US extend deep into the past. This original, incisive history goes far in offering a needed sense of perspective on current debates over such issues as access, costs, academic quality, social equity, and curricula. Eminently readable and always lively, this timely historical account is sure to be an invaluable resource for assessing the present condition and future prospects of American colleges and univer… More >>
Lucas provides a brief overview of highlights in American college history but he fails to go into enough depth on most topics. There are a number of minor irritations as well, such as the inaccurate index. Three excellent texts to consider instead are: “The American College and University, A History” by Frederick Rudolph; “Higher Education in Transition, A History of American Colleges and Universities” by Brubacher and Rudy; and the two volume collection “American Higher Education, A Documentary History” edited by Hofstadter and Smith.
Rating: 3 / 5
If you have to own *one* history of higher ed. book, then this one is probably it. It is comprehensive and – despite the fact the author is a tenured professor – is readable. I think it is also better than another recent of history of higher ed. text by Thelin, which focuses mostly on the 30 or 40 most selective universities, paying little attention to the institutions that educate the vast majority of the rest of us.
Rating: 5 / 5
I used this book as one of the required textbooks in a graduate course on the history of higher education. The book does a good job of providing background beginning with the earliest recorded evidence of higher education through the late 20th century. As a class text, I found the book to be very useful for the generation of discussion.
Rating: 4 / 5
A very well written history of American higher education. It is particularly suited for those new to the field who want a readable history to help put into context the current status of American higher education.
Rating: 5 / 5
This book was a journey through the origins of higher education. It makes sense looking at where we are today, and what directions we still need to go. Great book for every educator…
Rating: 4 / 5