The Feasibility of Free College in the U.S.

The concept of free college is often debated in light of the financial burden it imposes on taxpayers. If we consider 'free' to mean no tuition charges, then state funding would indeed be needed. On another note, if 'free college' implies that costs should be borne by taxpayers, the enthusiasm wanes among constituents. Taxpayers are generally less inclined to fund degrees in majors such as 'Puppet Arts,' 'Fermentation Science,' or 'Medieval French Literature.' Thus, there is a strong divide in terms of what people believe should be funded.

Historical Context

When I started college in 1964, most public colleges and universities were either free or had tuition and fees that were easily manageable through part-time work, thanks to heavy subsidies from states and cities. At this time, the U.S. was eager to outshine the USSR in science, technology, and education, which justified the then-higher tax rates. This period saw a general acceptance of funding higher education through taxes, recognizing the importance of an educated populace.

Over the decades, however, tax rates have significantly decreased. Today, the lingering concern is that people don’t want to pay for degrees in fields perceived as less valuable or practical. This shift in social attitudes has led to a debate about the sustainability of funding higher education.

Current Funding Models

Public colleges and universities are predominantly funded by taxes. Historically, some believed that charging tuition would deter freeloaders and ensure that only those pursuing valuable degrees paid. These institutions had to lower standards to accommodate all students, which meant that certificates of attendance became the norm rather than serious degrees.

Some institutions were once entirely free but were unable to sustain this model due to financial constraints. As a result, they had to introduce tuition fees. However, states like Germany have managed to maintain tuition-free systems through substantial government support or massive donor endowments. This approach ensures that taxpayers benefit from a robust university system without the direct burden of paying tuition.

The Financial Strain on Institutions

Supporting a legitimate institution of higher learning requires more than just funding. Meeting federal and state regulations alone can be financially challenging. The regulatory burden alone could potentially bankrupt most organizations, making the concept of free college even more complex.

Further complicating matters is the practical aspect of which degrees should be funded. While there is a strong argument for funding education broadly, there is also a demand for degrees that provide clear value in the job market. In this delicate balance, the role of taxpayers and the financial sustainability of public universities will continue to be a central concern in the discourse about free college.

In conclusion, while the idea of free college is well-intentioned, it must be carefully considered in light of the current financial landscape and the differing priorities of taxpayers. The feasibility of free college depends on how we define it, the fields of study involved, and the broader economic and social implications.